Couple steps up to fill mental health need

ASHEBORO — People suffering mental health challenges need to know that they’re seen and valued, and that there’s hope.

That’s at the core of Mission 1613, which held a ribbon cutting on July 21 at 117 Sunset Ave. 

The 501(c)(3) nonprofit was founded by Chris and Rebecca Greiner as a way to help those with mental health issues find their way to successful treatment.

As Rebecca put it, “The name Mission 1613 comes from Genesis 16:13, where Hagar calls God El Roi — ‘the God who sees me.’ That message is at the heart of everything we do.

“Many people struggling with mental health challenges, caregiving responsibilities, grief, addiction, anxiety, depression or isolation often feel unseen and alone. We want every person who walks through our doors to know they are seen, valued and never without hope.”

Mission 1613 is dedicated to opening doors for those seeking help. The impetus came from dealing with the Greiners’ daughter’s mental health problems.

“Rebecca tried to get help for our daughter and found roadblocks,” Chris said.

“I had time to make calls, research different resources, search for the correct help and still ran into a lot of dead ends,” Rebecca said of trying to help their daughter. “It’s very frustrating. Someone who’s struggling does not always have the ability or time to find help.”

“Many individuals face long wait times for counseling, financial barriers to care, or simply don’t know where to begin. Mission 1613 exists to help bridge that gap by connecting people with local resources, offering support groups and mentoring programs, building relationships with community partners, and assisting individuals in navigating available services.”

Mission 1613 also hosts support and connection groups in its welcoming office, which includes several comfortable meeting spaces designed for different support groups, an art therapy space, and rooms available for individual counseling.

“Mission 1613 is a faith-based nonprofit organization,” Rebecca said, “serving Randolph County by connecting individuals and families with mental health resources, reducing financial barriers to care and creating supportive community programs where people can find hope, encouragement and connection.

“Mission 1613 also works alongside churches, healthcare providers, counselors, businesses and other community organizations because we believe no one organization can meet every need alone. By building partnerships, we can better serve individuals and families throughout our community.”

The organization will begin offering workshops and classes soon. 

Mission 1613 also works to reduce or cover out-of-pocket counseling costs for individuals who cannot afford services. The organization is working to bring a licensed clinician in-house to expand access to care.

Mission 1613 has set aside a room for a podcast, “Mind Matters,” which is expected to launch at the end of August. The podcast will feature licensed professionals, individuals with lived experience of mental health challenges, caregivers and others with stories of hope and healing to share.

“The programs are important because people need to come out of isolation and have that connection with others,” Rebecca said. “We have a walk every other Saturday called Steps of Hope that is open to the community. Walking is a powerful way to clear your mind, improve both your physical and mental health, and connect with others. We hope to grow this group, build deep relationships, and encourage people out of isolation. We know it’s important to help people reconnect with others.”

“The groups are just talking, getting things off their chest,” Chris said. “It’s very therapeutic.

“You can be successful, but you’ve got to work at it,” he added. “Sticking to a routine is very good.”

Chris listed exercise, therapy and medication as important parts of mental health treatment.

“But,” he said, “God is No. 1. Put God first.

“It takes work to get better.”

Rebecca said, “Most people don’t realize the lack of mental health resources in North Carolina, especially here in Randolph County. That’s why we place such a strong emphasis on education and community awareness. We need more resources.

“We’re trying to get our name out there and secure additional funding. Right now, we rely primarily on individual donors.

“As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, Mission 1613 depends on the generosity of individuals, churches, businesses and community partners. Financial contributions help provide outreach programs, educational events and assistance for those who cannot afford counseling or mental health services.

“Whether you are looking for support, interested in volunteering, or would like to partner with us, we invite you to join us in creating a community where no one has to face life’s struggles alone.

“Together, we can remove the stigma surrounding mental health, strengthen families, and remind every person that they are seen, valued, and loved.

“To learn more, volunteer, or support our mission, visit Mission1613.org.”