COMMONWEALTH of VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF MENTAL HEALTH, MENTAL RETARDATION AND SUBSTANCE ABUSE SERVICES PO Office Box 1797 JAMES S. REINHARD, M.D. Richmond, Virginia  www.~state.va.us

November 3, 2004

Southwest Virginia Consumer and Family Involvement Project
C/O Judy Salyer, Coordinator
Route 2, Box 535 Nickelsville, V A 24271

Dear Southwest Consumer and Family Involvement Project,

It is with great pleasure that I announce the Southwest Consumer and Family Involvement Project as a recipient of Exemplary Recognition at the Governor's Conference on Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services. "Self Determination, Empowerment and Recovery: Envision the Possibilities" promises to be an exciting conference focused on the Department's Vision of a community-based system of services.

Our Vision is of a community-based system of services that promotes self- determination, empowerment, recovery, and the highest possible level of consumer participation in work, relationships, and all aspects of community life.

The Southwest Consumer and Family Involvement Project exemplifies the Vision's core values of "Self Determination, Empowerment and Recovery" through its daily operations. Through such model programs, Virginia will continue to reform the services system as we develop partnerships that move us forward. Congratulations on your achievement! I look forward to seeing you at the conference in December.

Sincerely,

James S. Reinhard, M.D.