Early in 2009, Ohio Department of Mental Health CEO Sandy Stephenson visited Athens to hold a public meeting to explain the current budgetary and policy problems related to mental health.  While here, she asked to see the Ridges Cemeteries Project. Committee members Greg Polzer and Tom Walker then led her and others on a quick tour.  At the cemeteries, Greg and Tom pointed out several graves of special interest. 

Director Stephenson seemed particularly captivated by the story of Viola Rapp and Walker subsequently sent her photos of Viola's descendants visiting her grave for the first time ever, and suggested she visit this website and Viola's story to learn more.  After doing so, she subsequently wrote, commenting that, "This is incredible history.  I love the look of joy on the faces of Viola's descendants."

In the ensuing month Stephenson and NAMI Ohio CEO James Mauro began discussing the issue of mental hospital cemetery restoration throughout the state as a way of fighting stigma.  Most such cemeteries are in terrible shape - far worse than ours - and, so far, only one other committee - that of Toledo - is working to rectify this situation.

Acknowledging this problem, the ODMH did an inventory and produced a power point to be used as the basis for further discussion.  Viola Rapp is featured in the Athens section of that power point.

The work that you are conducting to restore the dignity of those grounds has not gone unnoticed and is greatly appreciated by all those who understand the struggles and stigma caused by mental illness.  You and your organization are to be commended for the recognition and hard work you are contributing in restoring the cemetery grounds.

In recognition of your work, and in celebration of May as Mental Health Month, the Department would like to contribute $5,000 to NAMI of Athens County for your continued efforts in improving the cemeteries grounds and reclamation work.