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Affiliates of Journey Health System’s art contest focus on mental health

From left are JHS Art Contest First Place Winner Thomas Zdarko, BLBHS Psych Rehab Worker Laurie Sweet and BLBHS Executive Director Jen Gesing.

Journey Health System announced the results of their first Affiliate-wide Mental Health Awareness Month Art Contest held in May. More than 25 incredible submissions were received from employees, their families, and clients 18 and over across Journey Health System and all affiliated agencies located within Pennsylvania. 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:

— First place — “Hope” by Thomas Zdarko, Beacon Light Behavioral Health System PRS Warren Client.

— Second Place – “Hands of Hope” by Jerrod Swanson, Forest-Warren Mental Wellness Association Client.

From left, JHS President & CEO Guy Signor, Art Contest 2nd Place Winner Jerrod Swanson and FWMWA Executive Director Jim Wiseman.

— Third 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.

Journey Health System extends its heartfelt thanks to all of the artists for sharing their vision and helping raise awareness during Mental Health Awareness Month 2026. To view all of the contest entries, please see the video on Journey Health System’s Facebook page.

For more information about JHS and their affiliates, visit www.journeyhealth.org .

From left, JHS President & CEO Guy Signor, Art Contest 3rd Place Winner Stephanie Soliwoda & FWMWA Executive Director Jim Wiseman.

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