LAFOLLETTE, TN (SPECIAL TO WLAF) – Sharon Kapp, director of Ridgeview’s Campbell County Outpatient location, welcomed Boy Scout Troop 310 last week to tour the outpatient clinic and learn about the importance of mental health and advocacy as part of their pursuit for a merit badge on disability awareness. “What a special group of mental health advocates we have in these youth,” said Kapp.

Troop 310 was accompanied by the leadership of Logan Hickman, Chris and Crystal Thacker, and Claude Roberts. The scouts learned about the broad range of services provided by Ridgeview, the importance of timely access to care, and the recent addition of school based therapists in some Campbell County school locations.

“What I’m taking from this visit,” offered one reflective scout, “is that it’s okay to not feel okay and that asking for help is a sign of strength.” Others sought to know how they could volunteer to advocate for mental health awareness.

Scoutmaster Chris Thacker observed that many factors like poverty, family instability, substance use, and traumatic experiences in childhood can also impact a person’s ability to optimize good mental health. He added, “Scouts are about helping people, and we should do our part to reduce the stigma associated with people having a mental health diagnosis.”

To learn more about Ridgeview, visit HERE, follow them on Facebook, and subscribe to their YouTube Channel. Same Day Access walk-in hours are from 8:30 am – 10 am, Monday – Friday. A COVID-19 Helpline is also available from 8 am – 8 pm every day of the week at 833-503-0348.

For more information about becoming a Boy Scout, contact BSA Troop 310 Scoutmaster Chris Thacker at 423.494.6221. (WLAF NEWS PUBLISHED – 02/14/2021-6AM)

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