This past week, two of our Texas Family Voice Network Leaders, Julie Bourne and Verlyn Johnson, were recognized at the Central Texas African American Family Support Conference with awards from the 2021 Richard E. Hopkins “Torch Awards”.
The Richard E. Hopkins “Torch Awards” acknowledge individuals dedicated to improving the quality of life for African Americans in Central Texas who live with mental health, substance use, intellectual and developmental challenges. Nominees are selected for being exemplar advocates and leaders in their communities.
Julie, who received the award for “Outstanding Family Member”, is a strong advocate and member of numerous organizations, including NAMI Metropolitan Houston, National Federation of Families for Children’s Mental Health; Houston’s Disproportionality Advisory Board, (Chair); Harris County System of Care Advisory Council, (Chair); and the African American Gulf Coast Planning Committee.
Verlyn, recipient of the “Professional” award, is currently a Certified Family Partner (CFP) with the Harris Center in Houston. She is an active family representative on the Children and Youth Behavioral Health Subcommittee as well as the Children’s Justice Act Federal Taskforce. Verlyn is an avid student completing her doctorate in social work, with the goal of attending law school upon its completion.
Congratulations again to Julie and Verlyn! The recognition is well-deserved! We’re so glad to see Texas Family Voice Network represented so strongly across the state through our leaders.
