Volunteer Feature - Anita Hogin
More than sixty years ago, the Mental Health Association of Middle Tennessee began as a volunteer organization dedicated to improving the lives of individuals living with mental illness. Since then, volunteers have been key to the success of the organization.
A common thread among volunteers is that all have a special connection to mental health, but each story is different. What is the same is the commitment to the mission of the MHAMT.
One such volunteer is Anita Hogin, who joined the MHAMT’s Board of Directors in 2006 after meeting several staff members who touched her heart. Anita’s story began as one of confusion and lack of understanding of mental illness while growing up in a household with an uncle who suffered from schizophrenia. From the time Anita was six, her uncle moved back and forth between the homes of two of his sisters. When he was at Anita’s house, he was a great playmate for her, but she never really understood what was wrong with him.
As an adult, Anita’s nephew was diagnosed with bipolar disorder at the age of 16 and she has watched him struggle to lead a normal life. In her working life in the music industry, she has seen the effects of alcohol and drug addiction on friends and their families.
Throughout all this, Anita never knew about the MHAMT. She joined the Board because, in her own words, “This was a place where I could do some good and give back a little to those people who are aching from mental illness.” And Anita has given back much to the MHAMT, utilizing her business connections to help find performers for the 2007 Jammin’ to Beat the Blues. In 2008, she is serving as the Jammin’ event co-chair and also serves on the all important entertainment committee.
When staff and board members think of Anita, the words they use to describe her include “energetic, motivated and enthusiastic.” Anita has brought a new energy to the Board, never hesitating to speak her mind and encouraging others to get involved. Her energy also inspires staff members as they work to promote mental wellness throughout our community.
Through her work, Anita is helping to make sure that the resources are there for the next 16 year old who is diagnosed with bipolar disorder or for the family trying to help a schizophrenic brother. Thanks to the energy and enthusiasm of volunteers like Anita, the MHAMT continues to promote mental wellness throughout Middle Tennessee.
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