Cedar Rapids Metro North Rotary will satisfy the rumbling bellies of club members by offering a spread of Meals On Wheels Lunchboxes during their Valentine’s Day meeting. “Metro North Rotarians typically enjoy their weekly lunch at Biaggi’s,” says Ryan Koenig, the club’s president and a banker at Wells Fargo. “We decided to move our February 14 meeting to Cedar Rapids Bank & Trust so we could give back to the community through Horizons’ Lunchbox fundraiser.”

“Horizons is excited to welcome the participation of clubs like Metro North Rotary this year,” states Dianna Young, Horizons Meals On Wheels director. “The enthusiastic buzz that Lunchbox brings to our community is fantastic, and we’re delighted to offer such a tasty way to make a difference in someone’s life.”

Online ordering via a new, user-friendly shopping cart system is available at www.horizonsfamily.org. Supporters can find more information or download Order Forms on the website as well. Show some love during Valentine’s week, order gourmet lunches and provide meals to homebound seniors at the same time!

First, assess the damage – how much was charged? If you can’t pay off the purchases in full, make a plan to get them paid off in the next three months. This may require some sacrifices for a while, like less eating out or fewer movies, but the end result will be worth it.

Finally, start setting aside money from each pay check in a Christmas fund, so that this year you can have a charge-free holiday. And, don’t forget to create a holiday budget based on how much you plan to have available in your Christmas fund.

Money management can be a challenge. If you would like help in developing a budget, getting out of debt, or figuring out how you can put money in savings, the Certified Consumer Credit Counselors at Horizons have a combined 49 years of experience to help you reach your goals. If your debt situation is overwhelming you, Horizons will work with you and your creditors to develop an affordable plan. Remember, a sound spending and savings plan is the key to getting the most out of your money.

For more information contact us at 319-398-3576 or visit our website at www.horizonscccs.org. Horizons Consumer Credit Counseling Services, celebrating 30 years of service to East Central Iowa.

The third year’s a charm as Horizons rolls out an all new menu, welcomes new partnerships, and offers fun bonus buys. Choose from a variety of mouthwatering lunch options at only $10 each, with $5 toward your meal and the other $5 to feed a homebound senior. On the menu is Larry’s Favorite (tender shaved beef and zesty coleslaw), The Ranch Hand (chicken salad with southwestern giddy-up), or the Blue Zones Pit Stop (veggie favorites on a whole wheat bagel thin for heart-healthy refueling). The proceeds from this yummy yearly event help Horizons Meals On Wheels feed Eastern Iowa’s homebound residents.

Horizons is honored to join forces with the Cedar Rapids Blue Zones initiative in creating a heart-smart choice to support our city’s quest to become a certified Blue Zones Community ™. Purchase of the Blue Zones Pit Stop comes with a chance to win a Bristol Motor Speedway Package which includes two tickets to the March Nationwide and two tickets to the Sprint Cup on March 16 and 17.

A decadent dessert addition courtesy of Zins restaurant offers a sweet bonus to this year’s event. No one can resist the Velvet Elvis, a rich red-velvet cupcake under ribbons of creamy frosting. Top off your lunch with this perfect treat for only $2.

Also new to this year’s event is the option to add the Made With Love cookbook to any order. Over 100 celebrities united to create a montage of family favorites, hardbound by the Meals On Wheels Association of America in their effort to end senior hunger. Famous contributors include Mario Batali, former First Lady Barbara Bush, Martha Stewart, and Cedar Rapids’ own Kurt Warner. The proceeds from cookbook sales stay within Horizons Meals On Wheels program.

Online ordering via a new, user-friendly shopping cart system is available at www.horizonsfamily.org. Supporters can find more information or download Order Forms on the website as well. Show some love during Valentine’s week, order gourmet lunches and provide meals to homebound seniors at the same time!

“Horizons appreciate the Theisens’ family and the Community Foundation of Greater Dubuque for the support they have provided over the years” states Lori Hagg, Horizons Family Support Supervisor. “This gift helps our family assistance funds as well as our Holiday of Hope program. What a spectacular way to ring in the New Year.”

Horizons Family Support program is part of the Family Outreach network at the agency. The program provides services to at-risk children and parents that help improve and stabilize housing, childcare and employment situations, as well as enhance parenting and primary life-skills. During December the program conducts Holiday of Hope, offering an opportunity for families involved in the support program to ensure all their children have a blessed season. More than 300 children benefit from Holiday of Hope each year.

Horizons is pleased to offer Made With Love at a sale price of $25, with proceeds staying directly within Horizons Meals On Wheels program serving Eastern Iowa’s seniors. Books can be purchased at NewBo City Market on Saturday, December 8, 2012. Cash, check, Discover, Visa, or MasterCard are accepted. Books can also be purchased Monday-Friday during normal business hours at Horizons, 819 5th Street SE.

“Made With Love is the perfect holiday present. What better way to celebrate the season than with a gift that gives back,” smiles Bill Gardam, Horizons President & CEO. “The cookbook is an amazing way to help support our cause. It’s just one small way to do something much bigger: feed a senior in need.”

For more information about the Made With Love cookbook, call Horizons Meals On Wheels at 319-398-3574 or visit www.horizonsfamily.org.

Horizons Meals On Wheels is proud to offer a new cookbook to grace your family’s collection just in time for the holidays, Made With Love: The Meals On Wheels Family Cookbook. Over 100 celebrities united to create a montage of family favorites, hardbound by the Meals On Wheels Association of America in their effort to end senior hunger. Famous contributors include Mario Batali, former First Lady Barbara Bush, Martha Stewart, and Cedar Rapids’ own Kurt Warner. Each recipe comes with a note from the author. Horizons is pleased to offer Made With Love at a sale price of $25, with proceeds staying directly within Horizons Meals On Wheels program serving Eastern Iowa’s seniors.

“Made With Love is the perfect holiday present. What better way to celebrate the season than with a gift that gives back,” smiles Dianna Young, Horizons Meals On Wheels Director. “The cookbook is an amazing way to help support our cause. It’s just one small way to do something much bigger: feed a senior in need.”

Horizons, located at 819 5th Street SE, offers Made With Love for purchase at the front desk during normal business hours. Cash, check, Visa, or MasterCard are accepted. For more information about the Made With Love cookbook, call Horizons Meals On Wheels at 319-398-3574 or visit www.horizonsfamily.org.

Marion High School is the venue again this year and the popular course route is back including challenging favorites like historic Oakshade cemetery. The race kicks off at 9am with 8K and 4K options for runners, walkers, and wheelchairs. Chip timing will be offered for 8K participants. Watch for new fun along the way as we celebrate 20 years of trotting!

Early registration for this long-standing community tradition is going on now through October 30. Just $18 registers participants, grants access to the famous pancake breakfast, and guarantees a t-shirt. The price to register on October 31 through race day increases to $25 and t-shirts are not assured.

Longtime sponsors Marion First United Methodist Church and Benchmark, Inc. continue their support of the race with proceeds benefiting Horizons, A Family Service Alliance. “The support of First United Methodist in Marion and Benchmark along with our many other sponsors really points out how valued this race is in our community,” said race director, Pat Quinn. “Horizons is incredibly proud to be the beneficiary of the Turkey Trot. It’s extremely humbling to see the support generated by our community for our community,” reports Horizons President & CEO, Bill Gardam.

Visit www.TROTTT.com to print a registration form and enter by mail, or register online at www.getmeregistered.com key word search “Return.”

“Feed Iowa First’s mission is to grow fresh vegetables for Iowa’s food banks, and to assist landless beginning farmers to qualify for beginning farmer loans. Our mission stemmed out of the fact that over 340,000 people go to bed hungry each night in Iowa (USDA and Feeding America 2010). The end goal for Feed Iowa First in Linn County is the creation of 500 acres of Urban farms dedicated to feeding those in need, and the creation of at least 500 new farmers dedicated to feeding our county,” Kendrick states. “I am excited to be awarded a Mission Continues grant that would allow me to work with Horizons to help increase their clientele’s access to fresh fruits and vegetables.”

“Horizons is happy to welcome Sonia and the team from Feed Iowa First for a six-month project to start in late October. Our partnership will be the first of its kind in Iowa,” states Horizons President & CEO, Bill Gardam. “They will work toward a plan to increase accessibility to fresh produce for seniors and disabled community members via growth of our existing Meals On Wheels garden. The Mission Continues organization provides dreams-coming-true opportunities to our nation’s service people, and it’s an honor for Horizons to host Sonia through that program. We’re excited to partner with Feed Iowa First to help us research sustainable food systems, and look forward to what new innovations may await.” Horizons expects the formal partnership to begin October 22.

Depression strikes more than 17 million Americans each year. Symptoms include prolonged periods of hopelessness, restlessness, irritability, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of energy and thoughts of death or suicide. “The good news is that depression is successfully treated in 80% of diagnosed cases.” said Bill Gardam, Horizons President and CEO.

Screenings are designed to identify symptoms of depression and other mood disorders, and connect struggling individuals with appropriate treatment and support services. People who participate in a free screening will complete a simple written questionnaire and will be able to talk one-on-one with a mental health professional. Those who need further evaluation will receive referrals to local treatment services.

“Early detection is key,” says Jennifer Lee, a licensed mental health counselor at Horizons. “The sooner a person seeks help for depression the more effective treatment can be. We welcome individuals to our offices any time of the year and are glad to have the opportunity to highlight the need and provide free services through National Depression Screening Day.”

“If you have concerns about depression, see a professional.” said Gardam. “They can help you determine what is going on in your life and start you on the road to feeling better and recovery. A good first step is to get a simple, no cost assessment. If you cannot make it to Horizons on October 11, visit the Horizons’ web site at www.horizonsfamily.org for a simple and confidential web-based assessment.” added Gardam.

“The staff of Horizons Mental Health Counseling, and the entire agency, are thrilled for Dr. Fischer. Sandra’s positive impact touches countless lives, and we’re incredibly honored to work with her,” states Christine Rogers Cork, Horizons Clinical Director. “She truly deserves this recognition.”

Dr. Fischer is part of the Mental Health Counseling Department at Horizons. Sixteen full time therapists are available to serve children and adolescents as well as adults. Services provided at Horizons are confidential and available to all community members. Contact Horizons at 319-398-3943 for more information or to schedule an appointment.

The Return of the Turkey Trot will go green this year in honor of 20 outstanding races; green in more ways than one! Look for race-day volunteers to sport emerald-colored shirts, the traditional hue of 20 year celebrations. The race committee is also happy to announce a more environmentally friendly approach to traditional race bags! All flyers, coupons, and other bonus items will be offered in electronic format when available or at packet pickup prior to the race. “The Turkey Trot is becoming more eco-friendly as we make strides to trim down on paper usage this year. After all, it’s our 20 year, emerald green, anniversary. There’s no better time to go green!” said Pat Quinn, Race Director.

Discounts for early registration are available at $18 until October 30. Early registration also guarantees a t-shirt. The price increases to $25 from October 31 through race day. Breakfast and chip timing are included in the registration fee. Those not participating can enjoy the breakfast for $5. “You can’t beat the breakfast and t-shirt along with the race entry all at one low family-friendly price,” states Quinn.

The proceeds of this long standing community tradition benefit the programs of Horizons, A Family Service Alliance which in turn support families in Marion, Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas. “The Turkey Trot supports Horizons in providing much needed services such as financial counseling, emotional therapy, and Meals On Wheels. We are grateful to the community for embracing this great event.” said Bill Gardam, Horizons President & CEO.

For more information visit The Return of the Turkey Trot (TROTTT) online at www.trottt.com, or follow the event on Facebook and Twitter.

1. Start a nightly bedtime routine, and carry it through on the weekends as well.
2. Lay out clothes to wear on the night before.
3. Eat a healthy breakfast.
4. Send your child off with a special treat, maybe a note in their backpack that’s sure to cause a smile.
5. Check over your child’s completed homework to catch any trouble spots sooner rather than later.

If your find your child struggling with classroom attention, persistent anxieties, or challenging behavior, Horizons may be able to help. Call 319-398-3943 for more information.

On August 20, Horizons Meals On Wheels will partner with popular 2nd Avenue restaurant, Zins, for a special event: Taste of the City – Bringing Downtown to Your Door. Meals On Wheels will welcome Zins to the kitchen to create a gourmet lunch for homebound clients. On the menu is Zins signature macaroni & cheese, basil-crusted chicken with mozzarella and roasted tomatoes (fresh from the Meals On Wheels garden), and chocolate bread pudding for dessert.

“Zins welcomes the opportunity to share our fine cuisine with those who may not be able to experience downtown dining regularly. We hope Horizons Meals On Wheels participants enjoy this taste of our plates,” says Chris Miller, Zins General Manager.

“Our homebound seniors are valuable members of our community, and all deserve a chance to savor what others take for granted,” states Bill Gardam, Horizons President & CEO. “This sure-to-be-scrumptious day will thrill our clients, and we can’t thank our friends at Zins enough for sharing their amazing crew with ours.”

A training is available to help laypeople recognize the signs and symptoms of mental illness called Mental Health First Aid. Mental Health First Aid is a groundbreaking national course that equips participants to provide initial help until appropriate professional, peer, or family support can be engaged. Local nonprofit agency, Horizons, A Family Service Alliance is proud to bring this two-day public education session to Eastern Iowa.

“Mental Health First Aid is gaining national attention as the country reels from the recent Colorado tragedy. People want to know what could’ve been done differently and what options are out there to help us recognize signs of failing mental health,” states Rosemary Rohde-Ziskovsky, therapist at Horizons and certified Mental Health First Aid instructor. “This course is designed to build community awareness and strengthen abilities to recognize a crisis situation.”

No one knows what, if anything, could have been done to change the course of events in Aurora. But as more than 60,000 people certified in Mental Health First Aid can testify, the training will go a long way to fight the shame, silence, and inaction that frequently surrounds mental illnesses.

Horizons next Mental Health First Aid session is scheduled for October 10 – 11, 2012 in Cedar Rapids. A $75 registration fee includes a three-year certification in Mental Health First Aid, all course materials, and lunch on both days. Take the course and be a positive influence in our community. Register today at www.horizonsfamily.org.

Mike and Robin have been key volunteer leaders for the agency since early 2000 when they joined the then, Family Services Board. Both continued Board membership through a merger of Family Services and Alternative Service when Horizons was established.

One of the many examples of their devotion to Horizons was through their efforts during the historic flood of 2008. Mike was elected chair of the Horizons Board in 2008, just as waters were swamping downtown. With the help of the Board’s leadership and guidance, not a single senior missed a Meals On Wheels meal, and all other services returned to full operation within a week despite the loss of Horizons building to the flood waters. Robin assumed the chair role in 2010, the same year Mike received a national award from Cargill for his devoted volunteer service to Horizons.

“Horizons wishes the best of luck to these wonderful friends, and we thank them for their combined 18 years of volunteer service to the agency,” states Horizons President and CEO, Bill Gardam. “We also welcome experienced board member, Tim Kintner, President and CEO of Bankers Trust, to the role of chair, Janice Kerkove, Attorney with Bradley & Riley PC, as vice chair, Laura Wirth, Director of Regulatory Reporting at Transamerica, as Treasurer and Amy Johnson Boyle, Vice President of Development for the Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation, as Board Secretary, as we look forward to continued success.”

Borrowers are eligible for an Independent Foreclosure Review if they meet the following basic criteria:
o The mortgage loan was serviced by one of the participating mortgage servicers.
o The mortgage loan was active in the foreclosure process between January 1, 2009 and December 31, 2010.
o The property securing the mortgage loan was the borrower’s primary residence.

There are no costs associated with being included in the review; the review is a free program. Homeowners should beware of anyone who wants payment to assist in connection with the independent foreclosure review or any other foreclosure assistance program. Information about the review process, including how to request an independent review, was mailed to potentially eligible borrowers in November and December 2011.

Select mortgage lenders are offering eligible borrowers a free and impartial Independent Foreclosure Review by an independent consultant to identify those who may have been financially injured due to errors, misrepresentations or other deficiencies in their foreclosure process. If the review finds that financial injury occurred, the customer may receive compensation or other remedy.

Horizons Consumer Credit Counseling Services may be contacted for information on eligibility, to assist with completing and filing a Request for Review form, and respond to any questions or concerns about the process. Individuals with questions about the Independent Foreclosure Review process are encouraged to contact Horizons Consumer Credit Counseling at 319-398-3576.

In celebration of their triumph over the flood, Zins is hosting an anniversary week celebration kicking things off at 4:30 p.m. on Monday, June 11 with a cash bar and free hors d’oeuvres through 7:30 p.m. Zins is giving back to our community the remainder of the week by donating a portion of their proceeds to the Horizons, A Family Service Alliance Endowed Fund via The Greater Cedar Rapids Community Foundation. Horizons receives annual distributions from the Endowed Fund in perpetuity for unrestricted use. A portion of all sales, including gift cards, will be donated to the fund from June 12-17. Guests can also add an additional donation on to their tab.

“We are reminded on a daily basis that we are a strong business because of the community support, and it is important to us to return the sentiment. We have many exciting things planned for our future to do our part to keep the Cedar Rapids community happy, healthy and entertained.” said owner Lee Belfield.

“We are humbled by the generosity of Zins during their anniversary week.” states Horizons President and CEO, Bill Gardam. “From one victorious come-back organization to another, we can’t say thank you enough for this wonderful display of community support.”

Over the last five years, Linn County Family Treatment Court has been working to improve the welfare of children by educating and empowering parents battling substance abuse.  This outstanding year-long program functions with the aid of the Linn County Juvenile Court, Iowa Children’s Justice, Linn County Decat, and a partnership of area organizations.  Parents work through four phases before graduating with renewed parenting skills and sober self-confidence.  On Giving Back Day, participants will take an opportunity to uplift their community through volunteerism.

“Linn County Family Treatment Court is a crucial part of the sobriety journey.  The positive skills struggling parents learn during this process means the difference between a healthy life with their happy children, and a devastating path to self-destruction,” says Lori Hagg, Horizons Family Support Program Supervisor and member of the Linn County Family Treatment Court team.  “Horizons could not be more humbled to welcome these volunteers on Giving Back Day, and we’re proud to help raise community awareness for Family Treatment Court programs.”

“Family Treatment Court provides an opportunity for families disrupted by parental substance abuse to receive intensive, coordinated services and support.  The enhanced support provided allows us to keep many children safely at home, while their parent(s) works toward achieving and maintaining sobriety,” states Judge Susan Flaherty.  “Keeping children safely at home in this way, rather than removing them from parental custody and placing them in foster care, is the best possible outcome for the child and family. After four years of working with the Family Treatment Court, I feel as if we are just beginning to realize the potential of this model to keep families safely together while they work through some pretty significant issues.”

Federal funding currently supports this life-changing program, however the grant dollars are soon to end.  “As our federal grant winds down, I am hopeful that we will find the support in our community that is needed to sustain the project,” Flaherty states.  Team members will volunteer at Horizons at 10:00 a.m. on May 17th.  Horizons will offer a variety of options for this group to enjoy the fulfillment of giving back to our community.

Horizon logo

Sometimes first aid isn’t a bandage, or CPR, or calling 911.  Sometimes, first aid is YOU.  You are more likely to encounter someone — friend, family member, coworker, neighbor, or member of the community — in an emotional or mental crisis than someone having a heart attack.  Horizons, A Family Service Alliance is proud to offer Mental Health First Aid training to help arm our community with the tools to make a difference.

Mental Health First Aid teaches a 5-step action plan to offer initial help to people with the signs and symptoms of a mental illness or in a crisis, and connect them with the appropriate professional, peer, social, or self-help care. Anyone can take the 12-hour Mental Health First Aid course — first responders, students, teachers, leaders of faith communities, human resources professionals, and caring citizens.

Join Horizons for this critical training on May 2-3, 2012.  A $75 registration fee includes all course materials and lunch courtesy of Horizons Meals On Wheels.  Take the course, save a life, strengthen this community.  Register today at www.horizonsfamily.org.

Horizon Meals On Wheels logo w tag JPEG

Many Eastern Iowans are ringing in the New Year with resolutions to help their community.  Here’s a tasty way to accomplish those goals: order a Horizons Meals On Wheels Lunchbox!  Horizons, A Family Service Alliance is excited to bring back the popular fundraiser for a second year.  February 13-17, 2012 the Horizons Meals On Wheels team will dish up a fantastic lunch and raise funds to carry on the great work for clients in need at the same time.

Order the Lunchbox for only $10; with $5 toward the meal, and $5 to benefit Horizons Meals On Wheels as it continues to help frail seniors and persons with disabilities meet their daily nutritional needs.  Buy 3 meals or more and Horizons will deliver to your door in Cedar Rapids, Hiawatha, or Marion.

Purchase the Horizons Meals On Wheels Lunchbox for your February meetings, treat yourself and your colleagues, or just to say thanks for a job well done by ordering through Horizons’ website at www.horizonsfamily.org.  We offer multiple ways to order including mail, fax, or online.  Pay by check or credit card in advance or request an invoice.

Bill Gardam, President and CEO of Horizons, A Family Service Alliance said of the event, “I’m excited about bringing the high quality food and service we deliver everyday out into our community.  What a fun way to enjoy a great lunch and help support a great community program at the same time.  Thanks for joining us!”

For those who can’t participate in this year’s event but would still like to help Meals On Wheels, donations can be made through www.horizonsfamily.org.  Gifts of time are always welcome; those interested in volunteering may call 319-398-3574.

1.         Do not carry your checkbook or more credit cards than you will use during your shopping trip. If your wallet is lost or stolen, this will limit the damage.

Tip: Make a copy of the front and back of all credit cards, and put the list in a safe place at home. In an emergency, you will have easy access to a list of all your cards, the account numbers, and the bank’s customer service number to report the incident.

2.         Do not carry large amounts of cash. Even if you are committed to paying for your purchases with cash, be aware that pick-pockets take advantage of crowded areas and distracted people.

Tip: Instead, make frequent trips to the ATM to replenish your stash of cash. Or, consider using your debit card for transactions. Make sure you hang onto receipts and record transactions in your check register to avoid overdrafts. Use your bank’s ATM to avoid charges!

3.         Do not shop while in a hurry. You’ll end up spending more than you should just to mark the item off your list.

Tip: Block out a specific time for shopping. Make your first trip a leisurely one, simply getting an idea of what’s available this year and at what price. Take notes, and once back at home, get organized for the actual buying adventure.

4.         Do not shop without a list. Santa thinks it’s a useful tool, and so should you.

Tip: Make your list specific. Don’t just include the names of those you’re buying gifts for, but also include the specific item you’re looking for, and most importantly, the amount you intend to spend. Having an overall holiday budget floating around in your head isn’t good enough. Without a plan, you likely to overspend impulsively.

5.         Do not pile new debt on top of old. Some people are still paying for 2010 holiday expenses as they enter the 2011 buying season.

Tip: Think about it, you’re buying for friends and relatives who will be the first to understand if you need to cut back. If you are in a tenuous financial situation, it will only be made worse through over spending beyond your means. Consider writing a heartfelt note to those on your list, being sincere about your feelings toward them and why they mean so much to you. Most people can’t recall what they received last holiday season, but a personal note will be a treasured gift remembered for years to come.

“We’re living in difficult economic times given today’s financial climate,” said Scott Shook, Director of Horizons Consumer Credit Counseling. “Being financially responsible this holiday season is a gift to yourself and to those you care about.”

If you need help creating a holiday budget or paying off existing debt, don’t delay reaching out for help. To reach Horizons Consumer Credit Counseling Service call 319-398-3576 or 800-826-3574.  Visit us online at: www.horizonscccs.org.

Final 2011 TROTTT Logo

Lace up those sneakers for the 19th Annual Return of the Turkey Trot on Saturday, November 12th at Marion High School.  Last year’s race saw over 1,800 walkers and runners.  Organizers are on pace to host over 2,000 racers this year, and they invite you to join in the action!

The Marion High School venue is new this year, and allows a larger space for the growing crowd.  The course has changed a bit from previous Trots, but challenging favorites like historic Oakshade cemetery remain on the route.

Early registration for this long-standing community tradition is going on now through November 1.  Just $18 registers participants, grants access to the famous pancake breakfast, and guarantees a t-shirt.  The price to register on November 2 through race day increases to $25 and t-shirts are not assured.

Longtime sponsors Marion First United Methodist Church and Benchmark, Inc. continue their support of the race with proceeds benefiting Horizons, A Family Service Alliance.  “The support of First United Methodist in Marion and Benchmark along with our many other sponsors really points out how valued this race is in our community,” said race director, Pat Quinn.  “Horizons is incredibly proud to be the beneficiary of the Turkey Trot.  It’s extremely humbling to see the support generated by our community for our community,” reports Horizons President & CEO, Bill Gardam.

Visit www.TROTTT.com to print a registration form and enter by mail, or register online at www.getmeregistered.com key word search “Return.”

Horizons’ Coralville locale offers the life-improving services of consumer credit counseling, mental health counseling, and iCan, a skill-building program. These critical services work toward a common goal of bettering daily life for all ages. Horizons can provide the emotional tools and supports to set your life back on track.

The Coralville office welcomes new clients and interested individuals to attend this celebration. Call 319-358-6537 for more information.

Depression strikes more than 17 million Americans each year. Symptoms include prolonged periods of hopelessness, restlessness, irritability, changes in sleep or appetite, loss of energy and thoughts of death or suicide. “The good news is that depression is successfully treated in 80 percent of diagnosed cases.” said Bill Gardam, Horizons President and CEO.

Screenings are designed to identify symptoms of depression and other mood disorders, and connect struggling individuals with appropriate treatment and support services. People who participate in a free screening will complete a simple written questionnaire and will be able to talk one-on-one with a mental health professional. Those who need further evaluation will receive referrals to local treatment services.

“Early detection is key,” says Jennifer Lee, a licensed mental health counselor at Horizons. “The sooner a person seeks help for depression the more effective treatment can be. We welcome individuals to our offices any time of the year and are glad to have the opportunity to highlight the need and provide free services through National Depression Screening Day.”

“If you have concerns about depression, see a professional.” said Gardam. “They can help you determine what is going on in your life and start you on the road to feeling better and recovery. A good first step is to get a simple, no cost assessment. If you cannot make it to Horizons on October 6, visit the Horizons’ web site at www.horizonsfamily.org for a simple and confidential web-based assessment.” added Gardam.

Horizons Meals On Wheels and the Witwer Center announced a collaboration project today to support the nutrition and healthy aging needs of older adults in our community. In the midst of program funding cuts, both providers are facing serious challenges and are collaborating to ensure no older adult in the Cedar Rapids area is left behind.

On October 1, 2011 the Witwer Center, an affiliate of Abbe Inc., will shift its focus from a senior meal provider to a healthy aging initiative.  Witwer will transition its home-delivered and congregate meal programs to Horizons. The Witwer healthy aging programs will promote the physical and emotional well-being of older adults throughout the aging process. These services will be offered at various locations in the community and at the current congregate meal sites throughout Linn County.

Horizons Meals On Wheels will open their doors to existing Witwer meal clients with the promise to continue the outstanding service they’re accustomed to.  Horizons offers fresh, hot meals delivered every day of the week.  The kitchen creates frozen meal and breakfast options as well.  Clients are empowered with a choice of daily lunch entrees.  “We work together as a team everyday to serve our clients with the love and respect they deserve,” said Dianna Young, Horizons Meals On Wheels Director.

Horizons and Witwer are collaborating during this period of community transition to guarantee seamless service delivery continues.  “We are pleased to be able to partner with Horizons to assure the nutritional needs of our seniors continue to be met, while also addressing healthy aging issues that can enhance the quality of life for older adults,” said Myrt Bowers, Witwer Center Executive Director.

Ingrid Wensel, Executive Director, Heritage Area Agency on Aging, an administrator for state and federal dollars to area Meals On Wheels programs, stated, “Heritage is pleased to continue our commitment to supporting senior nutrition programs with Horizons and healthy aging programming with the Witwer Center.  These programs work to ensure at risk seniors are being served and such partnerships are critical for long term sustainability.”

Bill Gardam, Horizons President & CEO commented, “Both Witwer and Horizons remain steadfast advocates of senior services in our community and proudly collaborate together with the best interests of vulnerable older adults in mind.”   Dan Strellner, President & CEO of Abbe, Inc. added,  “This is a great example of two not for profit organizations coming together in a time of limited resources to offer very important services in the most efficient manner.”

It’s estimated that 1 in 4 Americans struggle with a diagnosable mental health disorder. More people battle mental illness than heart disease and cancer combined. Because of the social stigma attached to these aliments, many fight in silence while others don’t know where to turn. Mental Health First Aid works to bust through society’s assumptions and provide a new outlook on mental health.

This empowering 2-day course teaches participants how to provide help to suffering individuals until professional, peer, or family supports step in. Skills are taught by certified instructors and the course in its entirety counts as 12 units of continuing education for many professional designations.

Very few scholarships remain for Linn County nonprofit and public service providers. The scholarships will allow these attendees to participate at no cost. Register today at www.horizonsfamily.org/events to attend a 2011 class under scholarship. To learn more about Mental Health First Aid at Horizons, visit our website at www.horizonsfamily.org.

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