May 21, 2014 THE VILLADOM TIMES I • Page 11 Area Bergen LEADS to host discussion of mental health The term mental illness may bring to mind a distressed person with his head in his hands or a homeless person mumbling to himself, but mental illness affects people we see every day: neighbors, co-workers, spouses, and even ourselves. A good job, nice clothes, and a smiling face are not always indicators of wellness, because these issues can affect persons of any age, race, religion, or income. One in every five Americans will expe- rience mental illness. As a nation, we con- tinue to struggle to have an open, honest conversation about mental health, allowing misconceptions, fear, social consequences, and discrimination to keep us silent. The Bergen LEADS Class of 2014 believes it’s time to start talking. Ingrasci to chair Bergen County’s United Way board Peter J. Ingrasci of Wyckoff has been elected chairman of the board of Bergen County’s United Way. Ingrasci, who has served as a member of the board since 2004, is the UPS client director for IBM Corporation. “With Pete at the helm, our organi- zation is poised for operation in the 21 st century,” said Thomas Toronto, president of Bergen County’s United Way. “Under Pete’s leadership, IBM has made important technology investments in our operations including substantial investment in our NJ 2-1-1 system infrastructure. Over 200,000 people a year count on 2-1-1 in times of crisis and often when they are confronting a situation for the first time. We have been able to build a vast database that includes information about local, state, and national resources available to help and ensure that access to that information is fail-safe.” Ingrasci’s commitment to community volunteerism also extends to St. Martin’s (continued on page 29) This year’s Bergen LEADS class. Set for June 10, “A Real Discussion of Mental Health” will address stigma, social misconceptions, public policy, advocacy, and the delivery of mental health services. Robert N. Davison, executive director of the Mental Health Association of Essex County, will deliver a keynote address and moderate the ensuing discussion. The forum will be followed by a mental health resource fair. The Bergen LEADS Public Forum, (continued on page 29)