Message from our director

Hello Sunlight Village Family,

 As we at Sunlight Village celebrate our 20th anniversary of service I am honored to say we are still here yet find it necessary to tell the story of why we began and why it is important that we are fighting to still be here. Sunlight Village was born out of frustration, sadness and a strong desire to make sure that every young person would have supportive mental health services and resources. No one should have to suffer in silence and feel they are all alone dealing with one of the most devastating illness in the world...mental illness and it is just that...an illness. Our brain is the most important organ in the body and way too often under cared for and neglected. 

As a registered nurse for over 35 years I have seen and cared for people in almost every field of medicine but a contract on a mental health unit changed my life forever. I have seen physical and occupational therapists, nutritionists and other supportive health care providers on the care teams of patients dealing with cancer, heart disease, diabetes, joint replacements, and more but rarely seen any of these crucial supportive teams on a psych unit! Quality health care is a deserving right for everyone no matter your demographics or illness. Mental illness is hard and must be cared for with a comprehensive approach because healing and recovery is possible!

With all that being said Sunlight Village was founded to address the barriers, hurdles and huge gaps in quality mental health care, especially in our Black communities for our youth and young adults. We have deep roots in West Dayton and love it and thank God for caring for those roots for a time such as this! We have a responsibility to ensure our new home, programs and services in West Dayton honor our WHY with strong supportive and courageous - whose, whats, whens and hows!

This has been a hard journey but one worthy of the assignment. With a humble heart and a strong spirit I am honored to continue my assignment. I will also ensure that we strengthen our mental health programs and services because not only is the need great and accessible services few...our youth, young adults and families are deserving of a level playing field that supports and promotes mental health, recovery, healing, well-being and Hope!

So as we continue our journey you will see more of Sunlight Village and more activities, programs and services that increase awareness, education and access to mental health care and the promotion of overall well-being. I hope you will search your heart and find a way to be a part of our Village. No gift or service is too small or too great, and all are welcomed to come and see where your chair fits at our table. It Truly Takes A Village!

Thank you for your time and attention, and I look forward to meeting you someday!

Much love and blessings.

Robbie Brandon, Founder & CEO

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