Sallie Morgan
Executive Director, Mental Health Association of Fauquier/ Rappahannock, long-time board chair, Aging Together, member, PATH Foundation Social Responsibility Committee, board member, Rappahannock Association for Arts and the Community (RAAC) and chair of its Theatre Group, helped establish and manage RAAC’s “Soup and Soul” and “No Ordinary Person” events; former board member, Free Clinic, former program director, Rappahannock-Rapidan Community Services and founder, Area Agency on Aging. Has resided in Gid Brown Hollow with her husband, Tod, since 1976.
The Spark: I love sharing experiences with other people and found a great way to do that is through volunteer work. It is a little like learning to cook because you enjoy great food — you work to make things happen and then enjoy the fruits of your labor with others. Looking back, my parents set a good example. I have been volunteering for organizations, many in the healthcare area since I was a teen.
Proudest Achievement: On a personal level, our daughter Lainie, who graduated Valedictorian at RCHS. She is a compassionate and creative mother who enjoys working with people. Professionally, building two e ective collaborations that have expanded services in this region: the Aging Together partnership and the Mental Health Association. Both involved engaging key partners, nding resources, and putting plans into action to expand mental health resources and o er supports for older adults.
Biggest Challenge: Many experts believe stresses caused by COVID-19 have triggered a shadow pandemic in mental health, especially in rural communities like Rappahannock. Services here are limited and outreach is di cult. I have been co-facilitating a behavioral health roundtable to identify ways to increase resources here in the county or nd practical ways to provide those in need with services in adjacent counties. Tele-medicine is a potential solution but is not always an option due to the limited broadband service here. On a personal note, I am transitioning to retirement at the end of year. That is something I look forward to, but my eyesight is failing, and I may not be able to drive. My challenge is how to maintain my independence and stay engaged in the community.
Why It Matters: The pandemic has highlighted that we are all social creatures and how much social connectivity means in our lives. To me volunteerism is an important way to engage and connect to the community. It also provides one an opportunity to branch out and grow beyond one’s personal boundaries and sharing those experiences with others.
Favorite Rappahannock Treasure: The whole county is a real treasuretrove. I love the physical beauty of the place which is especially precious during the pandemic. Being able to enjoy the outdoors and go for long walks and not have to worry about social distancing is amazing. As for institutions, Childcare and Learning Center is an extraordinary organization for a small community as is the RAAC Community Theatre, which has brought together people of all ages.