Giving Back

Three Okaloosa leaders honored for mental health advocacy

Local officials recognized for decades of service improving access to mental health services through collaborative programs and legislative initiatives.

Jared Williams

Three community leaders were recognized by Bridgeway Center for their service advocating for improved mental health access in Okaloosa County.

Vice Chairman Carolyn Ketchel, State Representative Patt Maney, and Crestview Mayor J.B. Whitten received the Mental Health Hero Award during the Bridgeway Mental Health Celebration & Walk event at Liza Jackson Park on Friday, May 16, 2025.

As a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, Ketchel has worked at the macro-level, assisting in passing legislation on Social Security, child welfare and foster care. She previously received the 2020 Presidential Advocacy Award from the Florida Association of Counties for her advocacy work and role in creating the Mental Health Diversion Program alongside other community leaders.

“I truly appreciate this recognition,” said Ketchel. “It has been a calling for me to help improve the mental health needs of our community over the years, and we could not make progress without the close collaboration of Bridgeway and our community leaders like Rep. Maney and Mayor Whitten.”

Maney, who served as a judge before becoming a state representative, shared his longstanding commitment to mental health advocacy.

“As a judge, I worked with Bridgeway for years and first became concerned about the challenges of mental health and the shortcomings of Florida law. That concern was a major reason I ran for state representative,” said Maney. “I am proud to support Bridgeway’s many mental health initiatives like the Okaloosa County’s Mental Health Diversion Program, their support of One Hopeful Place and the BCI transitional housing initiative.”

Mayor Whitten’s involvement reflects Crestview’s commitment to mental health services, with city leadership playing a vital role in expanding access to care for residents across northern Okaloosa County.

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