United Counseling Service Annual Report

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4 thinking back, looking forward This annual report culminates a yearlong celebration of our 50th anniversary. We know we would not be here today without the work of hundreds of people who since 1958 have devoted their lives to helping others. As we celebrate this milestone, we also celebrate a community that understands the importance of what we do and a community that has supported those in need from the beginning. Fifty years ago in September 1958, UCS began serving the community with 6 staff and a budget of $13,000. UCS has grown a bit since then but our mission has essentially remained the same; to help people improve the quality of their life. Our 300 staff members work to that end every day. A committed group, they energize a healthy and resilient organization that continually meets the demand for quality community-based support and treatment. While we celebrate our accomplishments, we also look ahead. There is more work to do. We all deserve to live in communities without stigma or barriers to care, where recovery from substance dependency, emotional and developmental challenges is expected, and where the individuals we serve will live satisfying, contributing, and hopeful lives. For the next 50 years we will continue to lead, and to strengthen and improve our programs.We will continue to work closely with the community, to connect with people, and to help them improve the quality and productivity of their lives. We are optimistic about the future because of what we’ve been able to achieve together. The program reports that follow reflect our mission as it has unfolded over the past 50 years…the story of what happens in vital communities when people help neighbors to achieve their full potential. That is our collective mission now and for the future.
in the beginning 1949 1955 1956 1958 1959 Bennington Family Service Center forms to help families. Bennington County Mental Health Association forms, establishes a “mental hygiene clinic” to serve all residents. The Bennington Friends of Retarded Children is formally organized to aid children. Bennington’s Family Service Center and Mental Health Association merge on a trial basis, naming the new agency, United Counseling Service. Annual budget $13,000. 183 people are helped that year. Mrs. Dorothy Ellsworth is the first Executive Director. Rev. Charles J. Parsley is the first Board President. UCS is located at 508 Main Street, above Nichols Juvenile Shop. Merger is announced at the Knotty Pine Restaurant. Operational reports are presented and it is noted that parents, teachers, and doctors are referring people to UCS more frequently. UCS Board unanimously approves merger. The Bennington Banner reports State Mental Health Director Dr. Arthur S. Funke, as saying This is the first such merger in Vermont and gives Bennington County the best such organization in the state. Clients are asked to pay 50 cents per visit. Those who cannot afford it are helped for free. Fees are introduced when it is realized that some people refuse referrals to UCS because they believe a free service means they are a “charity case.” First Vermont State evaluation finds UCS overall “the outstanding service in the state.” united counseling service 5
Page 1 and 2: 2007/2008 U n i t e d C o u n s e l
Page 3: the march of time People have alway
Page 7 and 8: from its inception, UCS has always
Page 9 and 10: helping people with disabilities fi
Page 11 and 12: he Bennington community’s concern
Page 13 and 14: sponsoring head start, big brothers
Page 15 and 16: he last 50 years have been especial
Page 17 and 18: Michel Kimball John and Marie LaPen
Page 19 and 20: F I N A NCIAL R E PO RT 2007-2008 B

United Counseling Service Annual Report

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