GOLDSBORO, N.C. — The Mental Health Association in Wayne County held its Annual Meeting at St. Luke’s United Methodist Church, marking an evening focused on leadership, lived experience, and renewed commitment to mental wellness throughout the community.
The meeting opened with the installation of new board members, recognizing individuals selected for their leadership, dedication, and commitment to advancing the organization’s mission.
During the ceremony, board members formally affirmed their commitment to promoting mental health, wellness, and recovery; advocating for individuals living with mental illness; supporting prevention efforts; and reducing stigma across Wayne County.
“Membership on the board is both an honor and a responsibility,” leadership noted, emphasizing the role board members play in guiding the management, care, and direction of the association.
Officers were also installed, including leadership roles for president, Emily Peacock, president-elect, Beverly Deans, secretary, Amy Roux, and treasurer, Michelle Rogers.
The program also featured a powerful keynote address by Geoff Hulse, who shared his personal journey with addiction, recovery, and mental health challenges. Speaking candidly, Hulse reflected on family history, professional pressures, and the realities of living with substance use disorder, emphasizing that mental illness and addiction do not discriminate.
Hulse highlighted the importance of treatment, peer support, and community understanding, reminding attendees that recovery is possible when individuals are met with compassion rather than judgment.
“At some point, everyone reaches a low place,” Hulse shared. “Sometimes what people need most is help finding the right door to walk through.”
The evening included a special musical performance by Phyllis Merritt James, providing a moment of reflection and inspiration.
Attendees were encouraged to review the association’s 2025 Annual Report, which underscored that the Mental Health Association in Wayne County is an all-volunteer organization continuing to serve the community despite limited funding. Through partnerships the association has sustained operations and expanded outreach efforts.
“We are not funded, but we are committed,” Emily Peacock, MHA Board President said. “We work diligently with the community, and we welcome ideas, collaboration, and continued support.”
The meeting concluded with an open invitation for questions, discussion, and community involvement, reinforcing the association’s mission to promote education, advocacy, and access to mental health resources for all individuals in Wayne County.
