Members of Women United recently kicked off their Annual Campaign for United Way of Central Alabama (UWCA). The event was hosted by America’s First Federal Credit Union (AmFirst) and featured a panel discussion surrounding mental health awareness and the growing impact that mental health has on families, workplaces and communities.
Opening remarks by Kelly Peace, a member of the Women United Steering Committee, reflected on the impact of collective leadership.
“Women United is a powerful network committed to creating lasting change in our community through leadership, philanthropy and service,” she said. “Today’s topic of mental health is not just a personal issue; it affects our entire community. That’s why we’re here today, to listen, to learn and to lead.”
Reshaping Attitudes on Emotional Support and Wellness
The morning’s panel discussion was moderated by Lou Lacey, Director of Emotional Wellness at Children’s of Alabama, a United Way partner agency. Lacey reflected on her personal connection to United Way, and shared that more than 40 years ago, the organization provided life-saving support during a difficult time.
The panel included leaders from several United Way partner agencies who help meet the growing need for accessible, compassionate mental health services:
- George Casey, Executive Director, IMPACT Family Counseling
- Morgan Rhodes, Aging & Disability Resource Center Coordinator, United Way Area Agency on Aging of Jefferson County (UWAAA)
- Lindsey Stephenson, Executive Director, Central Alabama Wellness
- Ana Sullivan, Executive Director, The Crisis Center
Together they discussed the importance of caring for yourself and for others. The conversation touched on balance, burnout and the importance of allowing yourself the time and space to step back and clear your mind when feeling overwhelmed.
“Give yourself the same grace you give everybody else,” said Rhodes. “If you’re not okay, that’s fine — acknowledge it and take time to recharge. Balance doesn’t happen by accident; it happens because you make it a priority.”
Panelists agreed that emotional wellness begins with honesty and connection. “Sometimes being emotionally well means admitting you’re not having a good day and being willing to share that with others,” said Stephenson. “We can’t pour from an empty cup. Even five minutes of quiet can reset your perspective and help you be present for the people who rely on you.”
Building a Stronger, Healthier Central Alabama
When our community invests in mental health, everyone benefits. From school-based counseling to crisis response to senior support services, United Way funding helps agencies expand access to care and reach those who need it most.
“If it weren’t for United Way, we couldn’t do what we do,” said Casey. “Most of us [can] provide mental health care at free or reduced cost because of community support. When you give to United Way, you make it possible for agencies like ours to serve people who have nowhere else to turn.”
Women United plays a key role in supporting this work. The group connects women across Central Alabama who each contribute $1,000 or more annually to United Way. Together they are driving change, empowering one another and strengthening the wellbeing of their community.
To learn more about Women United, click here.