I had the privilege of attending a truly inspiring event on the Wildwood, NJ boardwalk that honored individuals from COMHAR living with behavioral health challenges and promoted mental wellness.

The atmosphere was filled with warmth, acceptance, and solidarity—a powerful contrast to the stigma that too often surrounds mental health. Watching so many people walk together with pride along the scenic boardwalk was a moving reminder of the strength found in community and shared understanding.

The sound of the ocean, fresh sea air, and the beauty of an open space created a sense of peace and connection for everyone involved. It was a day where differences were embraced, stories were shared, and resilience was celebrated.

A heartfelt thank you to the COMHAR organizers for creating such an inclusive and uplifting experience. Events like this underscore the importance of providing spaces where individuals can connect, feel supported, and know they are part of a caring community.

Patrick J. Dooley
COMHAR Past President & Proud Board Member for over a decade

COMHAR and NAMI Join Forces to Feed 150 Families in Need On November 18th
COMHAR partnered with the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) to host a vital food distribution event aimed at supporting Philadelphia’s most vulnerable residents. Together, we provided nutritious groceries to 150 families, many of whom face significant food insecurity and economic challenges.

This collaboration reflects COMHAR’s ongoing commitment to addressing not only mental health needs but also the social determinants of health that impact overall well-being. For many families in our community, access to healthy food is a daily struggle. By joining forces with NAMI, we were able to extend a lifeline to those who need it most.

The event was more than just a food giveaway—it was a demonstration of compassion and solidarity. Volunteers from both organizations worked tirelessly to ensure every family left with essential items to help them through the week. Smiles, gratitude, and a renewed sense of hope filled the atmosphere.

Why It Matters:
Food insecurity disproportionately affects individuals living with mental health challenges. By addressing these basic needs, COMHAR and NAMI are helping families stabilize and thrive, reinforcing our shared mission of holistic care.

We extend heartfelt thanks to all volunteers, donors, and partners who made this event possible. Together, we are building stronger, healthier communities—one family at a time.

COMHAR Board of Directors Appoints Trapeta B. Mayson as CEO

Philadelphia, PA – December 17, 2024 – COMHAR Inc. Board of Directors announced that Trapeta B. Mayson has been appointed as the new Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of the agency. The Board held an Executive Session, in which they unanimously voted to remove the interim tag from Trapeta B. Mayson and make her the Chief Executive Officer effective December 16, 2024.  As an experienced Human Service leader Trapeta’s career spans over 25 years across nonprofit, government, and civic sectors. Trapeta’s appointment is historic as the first woman and first African American to hold the role of CEO at COMHAR.

Trapeta B Mayson, a Licensed Clinical Social Worker, has her B.A. from Temple University, M.S.S from Bryn Mawr graduate school of Social Work and Social Research, and M.B.A. from Villanova University. She started her career with COMHAR as a Division Director and was promoted to Chief Program Officer in 2019. Her continued commitment and hard work have always been a guiding star to COMHAR. She then was promoted to Chief Operating Officer in 2022 and Interim CEO in September 2024 during leadership transition.

Mayson brings a deep commitment to both the organization and the community, underscored by a distinguished career in senior leadership positions across Philadelphia, including Executive Director of Historic Germantown, Vice President of Education and Family Learning at the Please Touch Museum, and Social Work Supervisor at Coatesville VA Medical Center.  In addition to her leadership in the nonprofit world, Mayson is an accomplished artist and community arts practitioner. She is the founder of Healing Verse Philly and the Healing Verse Poetry Line and held the honor of being the 2020-2021 Poet Laureate of the City of Philadelphia.

Mayson, a native of Liberia who grew up in North Philadelphia and Germantown, brings a personal commitment to ensuring that everyone who engages with COMHAR’s programs receives quality care. “I am dedicated to delivering services through a culturally responsive lens, treating each person with dignity and as an individual—not defined by a diagnosis,” said Mayson. “I look forward to building on COMHAR’s legacy and fostering a welcoming, inclusive community for all.”

Mayson’s appointment signals a new chapter for COMHAR, as the organization continues to grow and evolve in its service to individuals and families throughout the region.

About COMHAR:

COMHAR is a 50-year-old community-based organization providing comprehensive mental health, intellectual and developmental disability, and substance use services. Serving over 5,000 individuals monthly across Philadelphia and neighboring counties, COMHAR is dedicated to empowering individuals and enhancing their quality of life through compassionate, culturally responsive care.