As we cut the ribbon in celebration of the Mental Health Association of Frederick County’s 60th Anniversary, we are not just marking a milestone, we are honoring a legacy. A legacy of compassion, advocacy, and unwavering support. For six decades, MHA has been a place to turn in times of hardship and joy, in moments of sorrow and strength. It has been a place to mend, to heal, and to grow—for all of us.
The celebration began with a powerful lineup of local elected officials and champions of mental health. Remarks were shared by Congresswoman McClain-Delaney’s representative John Funderburk, Delegate Ken Kerr, County Executive Jessica Fitzwater, County Council President Brad Young joined by Council Members MC Keegan-Ayer and Jerry Donald, City of Frederick Mayor Michael O’Connor, and Frederick County Chamber of Commerce President Rick Weldon. Each offered heartfelt reflections on MHA’s 60 years of service to the community.
Following these tributes, MHA CEO Bridget Krautwurst, alongside Board President Ashleigh Rossi and Vice President Cheryl Cioffi, highlighted MHA’s incredible journey from its humble beginnings to becoming a lifeline of support and healing for thousands across Frederick County.
MHA was founded on the belief that mental health matters, and that no one should have to face life’s challenges alone. What began in 1965 with a focus on education, information, and advocacy has blossomed into a full spectrum of services that support the emotional wellness of our entire community.
Here’s a look back at how we’ve grown together:
- 1985: The Call Center opened—then known as Phone-a-Friend—a safe place for young people to ask questions and find support. That service has since evolved into a 24/7 Call Center for anyone needing resources, information, or crisis support.
- 1987: Recognizing the importance of affordable, quality childcare, we launched Child Care Choices was launched and is still serving families today.
- 1994: Counseling Services began being offered on a sliding scale, ensuring therapy was accessible to everyone.
- 1998: The first Catoctin Affair was held – a celebration and fundraiser that continues to bring the community together for a great cause.
- 2010: The Jefferson Street building was purchased to support MHA’s expanding programs and services.
- 2014: Walk-In Behavioral Health Services began at Jefferson Street with limited hours, providing free, immediate, face-to-face help for anyone experiencing a mental, emotional, family, or relationship crisis.
- 2023: The Walk-In Crisis Care Center on Montevue Lane opened in partnership with the Frederick County Health Department offering 24/7 access to MHA’s unrivaled crisis support.
Today, MHA offers 14 programs and services that reflect our mission: to build a strong foundation of emotional wellness for the whole community by preparing resilient children, securing vulnerable families, and standing with people to face crises together.
None of this would be possible without YOU.
Your advocacy, your generosity, and your belief in emotional wellness have made it possible for us to walk beside thousands of Frederick County residents every year.
From crisis response to resilience-building, MHA is and always will be here, at every step, for every future.
Thank you for standing with us today and always.
Make a charitable contribution to MHA today.
