06/01/2026
(Picture 1. L to R: 2026 JHS Art Contest 1st Place Winner Thomas Zdarko, BLBHS Psych Rehab Worker Laurie Sweet & BLBHS Executive Director Jen Gesing.)
(Picture 2. L to R: JHS President & CEO Guy Signor, Art Contest 2nd Place Winner Jerrod Swanson & FWMWA Executive Director Jim Wiseman.)
(Picture 3. L to R: JHS President & CEO Guy Signor, Art Contest 3rd Place Winner Stephanie Soliwoda & FWMWA Executive Director Jim Wiseman.)
Journey Health System (JHS) is proud to announce the results of their first-ever Affiliate-wide Mental Health Awareness Month Art Contest held this May. Over 25 incredible submissions were received from employees, their families, and clients (18+) across Journey Health System and all affiliated agencies. The theme, "There is always help. There is always hope," inspired a vibrant collection of posters, drawings, photo collages, and more.
The artwork powerfully captured messages of openness, acceptance, and resilience, encouraging viewers to challenge mental health stigma. The judging panel was impressed by the creativity and heartfelt expressions displayed throughout the art pieces.
The top three winners, are as follows:
1st Place – “Hope” by Thomas Zdarko, Beacon Light Behavioral Health System PRS Warren Client
2nd Place – “Hands of Hope” by Jerrod Swanson, Forest-Warren Mental Wellness Association Client
3rd Place – “Mental Health Rocks” by Stephanie Soliwoda, Forest-Warren Mental Wellness Association Client
Each winner received prizes and award certificates in recognition of their inspiring work.
Art has the power to heal – to process emotions and connect with others. Additionally, this Mental Health Awareness Month Art Contest, honored and shared artists’ stories of healing through creativity.
We extend our heartfelt thanks to all of the artists for sharing their vision and helping raise awareness during 2026. To view all of the contest entries, please see the video on Journey Health System’s page.
Journey Health System supports the following behavioral health affiliates: Beacon Light Behavioral Health Systems, Beacon Light Adult Residential Services, Deerfield Behavioral Health, Dickinson Center, Forest Warren Mental Wellness Association, and Stairways Behavioral Health. The Journey Health System Board of Directors is comprised of representatives from each organization which deliver mental health care to 20 counties across . For more information, visit www.journeyhealth.org . 👏