CMH receives donation in memory of Maddens

LUDINGTON — West Michigan Community Mental Health recently received a $10,000 donation in the memory of Hal and Virginia Madden. The donation was presented on Dec. 17 at the CMH governing board meeting and was made by Kurt and Kyle Madden in memory of their parents.

Hal Madden, who served many years as superintendent of Ludington Area Schools, was a charter member of the WMCMH board and the board chair for 21 years.  He remained on the board until the time of his passing on July 1, 2012.  Madden’s legacy in the area of mental health care extends further than the local CMH; he is recognized state-wide for his leadership role in the establishment of the community mental health system in Michigan.  Virginia was also greatly involved in the community via donating and volunteering for charitable causes.

Madden also served many years on the Mason County Board of Commissioners, including a tenure as chairman.

Half of the donation will go towards programming for people with developmental disabilities.  The other half is designated for suicide prevention efforts.  “This donation will help the people WMCMH serves and also the larger community,” said WMCMH Executive Director Lisa Hotovy.  “We are honored to put these funds to use in a way that will carry on Hal and Virginia’s legacy and their passion for helping others.”