Reducing Stigmas Related to Mental Health and Offering Support
The Upper Susquehanna Synod’s Bold Ideas Grant has been a catalyst for The Table’s collaboration with the Susquehanna Valley PA affiliate of National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI SVPA). Our advocacy recently included raising awareness during Suicide Prevention month.
During our September Community Connections Ministry Moment, Julie Adams shared her reflection about her daughter’s life and legacy:
“My daughter, Lea, died by suicide in March of 2025. Suicide is complicated. Mental illness is complicated. Being human is complicated. I ask that you take care of yourself. I ask that you take care of your family and friends. I ask that you take care of complete strangers. This care may range from a healthy meal to intensive treatment. It may be kind words or committing to counseling sessions. It may mean trying something new or offering up a prayer. It may mean grace, in so many forms.My daughter’s life was not just her illness and death. Lea believed deeply in bringing people together and fostering understanding among the many diverse communities in our world. She had a genuine passion for serving others and building meaningful connections.”
Members of The Table and First Presbyterian Church donated over $300 to the Lea Grace Adams Memorial Scholarship. This Scholarship honors the life of a remarkable Central Columbia graduate who exemplified generosity, respect for all people, and a genuine desire to connect across cultures and personal differences. She believed in the power of language, travel, and community service to bring people together and create understanding in a divided world. This is a yearly $1000 scholarship awarded to a Central Columbia graduating senior, who embodies Lea’s same passion for connecting with those in her community through acts of service and/or community involvement.
By sharing Lea’s legacy, Julie prays that “someone can find the support that they need.” Members of The Table will continue to provide opportunities for others to advocate for those struggling with mental health issues and their caregivers. Team Table and CaTYLST are participating in NAMI SVPA’s first NAMI Walk in Lewisburg on October 24. The Table will be offering a preview for Mental Health First Aid Training on Thursday, November 19 from 6:00pm - 7:00pm.
If you would like to donate to the Lea Grace Adams Memorial Scholarship, checks can be made out to Central Columbia High School with “Lea Adams Memorial Scholarship” written in the memo and be mailed to Central Columbia High School, ATTN: Crystal Zimmerman, 4777 Old Berwick Road, Bloomsburg, PA 17815 OR contact Sue Ellen Spotts to support the Upper Susquehanna Synod’s Bold Ideas Grant.