Chicago (August 20, 2005) - Illinois Department of Children and Family Services (DCFS) Director Bryan Samuels is among recipients of the Lifeline Celebration Award from the Community Mental Health Council, Inc. The purpose of the award is to recognize excellence and leadership in behavioral healthcare and community service. Each year, an independent committee selects honorees who stand out as beacons of the community because of their commitment to improving the lives of others and addressing behavioral healthcare issues.

"We have worked to establish a holistic continuum of care that meets the physical, developmental and emotional needs of the population that we serve," said Director Samuels. "I am honored to receive this award because it reminds me that there are many others that recognize the critical importance of this work." DCFS currently has about 17,000 youth in state care. Samuels has served as the agency's director for two years.

Lifeline Celebration Award recipients must have a history of supporting major behavioral healthcare initiatives, have maintained outstanding performance in community service demonstrating extraordinary leadership capabilities, and have participated in philanthropic efforts that have made a difference in the community.

"The Lifeline award confirms Director Samuels' leadership and dedication to improving the lives of children in the child welfare system," said Governor Rod R. Blagojevich. In June, the governor signed into law HB759 that expands mental health services for children in case care, making Illinois one of the first states in the nation to address mental health needs of state wards. Rep Lou Long (D-Skokie) and state Sen. Susan Garrett (D-Highwood) co-sponsored the bill.

The awards ceremony will take place on Saturday, August 20, 2005 at the Westin Hotel, 909 North Michigan Avenue at 7:00 p.m. WFLD Fox News Anchor Tamron Hall will serve as the Mistress of Ceremony.

DCFS' "lifetime approach" in the delivery of services to abused and neglected children, includes conducting holistic "day-one" mental health assessments that began in February. The Department partners with universities and hospitals across the state to provide clinical and professional expertise. This integrated assessment approach helps provide a comprehensive clinical understanding of the needs of children in state care.

"Addressing behavioral health issues is a key component in building strong support systems that span throughout the life of each child's stay in state care," added Samuels.

Other 2005 Lifeline Celebration Award honorees include Reverend Dr. Johnnie Coleman, Founder, Christ Universal Temple; Merri Dee, WGN-9 Director of Community Relations; and Sister Shelia Lyne, RSM, President and CEO Mercy Hospital and Medical Center.

The Community Mental Council (CMHC) is committed to the prevention and early detection of psychiatric and emotional disorders by developing a community that promotes good physical and mental health. CMHC seeks to fulfill this goal by providing research on cultural, racial, and ethnically diverse mental health issues, formal education, advocacy consultation, community education, and constructive influence over public policy.

- 30 -

Diane Jackson
Illinois Department of Children and Family Services
312-814-6847