Jana Marie Foundation was recently honored for its work delivering Mental Health First Aid Training throughout the Centre County community.
The State College-based organization received an honorable mention at the 2025 Mental Health First Aid Summit, a recognition that highlighted its commitment to fostering mental wellness, increasing mental health literacy and empowering individuals to support one another in times of need.
“We are deeply honored to receive this honorable mention for our work with Mental Health First Aid,” Marisa Vicere, president and founder of Jana Marie Foundation, said in a statement. “At Jana Marie Foundation, we believe in the power of education, connection and compassion to create a community where mental health is a priority. This recognition reaffirms our commitment to equipping individuals with the tools and confidence to support one another and break down the stigma surrounding mental health.”
Mental Health First Aid is an evidence-based training program from the National Council for Mental Wellbeing that teaches individuals how to identify, understand and respond to signs of mental health and substance use challenges.
Through the partnership with MHFA, Jana Marie Foundation has trained 4,249 community members as Adult or Youth Mental Health First Aiders, including educators, students, first responders and local leaders, according to a news release. The organization has also trained 3,128 young people in teen Mental Health First Aid, across six districts.
“The National Council for Mental Wellbeing is grateful for the support of Jana Marie Foundation and their commitment to training over 7,000 community members in Mental Health First Aid,” Tramaine EL-Amin, MHFA vice president, said in a statement. “Organizations like Jana Marie Foundation are vital to expanding the reach of MHFA across the country and empowering people to assist each other in times of need through the training.”
In addition to Mental Health First Aid, Jana Marie Foundation offers a wide range of programs focused on mental health awareness, youth empowerment and suicide prevention.
For more information about Jana Marie Foundation and upcoming Mental Health First Aid training opportunities, janamariefoundation.org.
