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Mental Health Advisory Committee

Mission

The mission of the State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin Mental Health Advisory Committee is to address the mental health crisis in Illinois by developing innovative, inclusive, and impactful legislation. Through collaboration with experts, stakeholders, and community members, the committee aims to identify and prioritize mental health challenges across diverse populations and systems, ensuring access to equitable, high-quality care and support for all.

Vision

Our vision is to create an Illinois where mental health is a priority for every individual, supported by a robust network of resources, services, and policies. By fostering partnerships across healthcare, law enforcement, education, corrections, and social services, we envision a state that leads the nation in mental health innovation, accessibility, and advocacy—empowering individuals to thrive in every stage of life.

Members

Dr. Twin Green - Chair

Dr. Twin D. Green is a mental health expert and advocate for civic and social justice, dedicated to serving vulnerable populations. She is the Founder, President, and CEO of The Link & Option Center, Inc., a 30-year State of Illinois Certified Community Mental Health Center accredited by the Joint Commission. Inspired by her son’s challenges, Dr. Green has spent 40+ years championing youth and families in South Suburban Cook County.

She holds a Ph.D. in Human Services Counselor Education & Supervision (Rhema University) and is a Doctoral candidate in Healthcare Administration (Walden University). She specializes in family reunification and therapeutic care and serves on multiple boards, including the Community Behavioral Healthcare Association of Illinois.

Dr. Green is also a member of the League of Women Voters, Rotary International, and City Club of Chicago, continuously working to strengthen community resources and mental health advocacy.

Trustee Cynthia Butler - Co-chair

Cynthia Butler is a distinguished public servant who has served the Village of Richton Park Board for over 26 years, holding the esteemed position of Senior Trustee since her election in April 1999. With a remarkable 31-year career at CNA Insurance culminating in her appointment as Application Development Director, Cynthia has consistently demonstrated exceptional leadership and dedication. Beyond her professional achievements, she is a devoted wife, nurturing mother of two adult sons, and cherished grandmother to two grandsons and one granddaughter. Cynthia’s civic engagement includes her roles as Treasurer for the Friends of the Richton Park Library, the League of Women Voters of Park Forest Area, and the Rich Township Democratic Organization, as well as Vice-President of the Lakewood Homeowners Association. Her commitment to community is further reflected in her active involvement at Victory Apostolic Church in Matteson, Illinois, where she contributes to the Security and Victory Community Coalition ministries.

Amelia Flemming - Secretary

Amelia Flemming is the District Director for Illinois State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin and Founder of Creating Civil Community Leaders (CCCL). She has spent over 37 years in the Southland area, advocating for civic engagement, education, and social equity. With a B.A. in Psychology, Amelia is dedicated to mental health and family well-being. She provides family and couples therapy through faith-based services at her church and is pursuing a Master’s in Family and Marriage Counseling at Governors State University. A 33-year veteran of the U.S. Department of Justice, she served as an Intelligence Research Specialist for the ATF Crime Gun Unit in Chicago. She is a Housing and Human Relations Commissioner and a dedicated mentor for youth leadership programs. Her philanthropic efforts include leading women’s wellness fairs, resource drives, and mentoring initiatives, strengthening families and communities across the Southland.

Anjenita Davis - Facilitator

Anjenita Davis is a community advocate, political strategist, and education reformer with 14 years of experience supporting families and children. As Chief of Staff for State Representative Debbie Meyers-Martin and Founder of ACGC Consulting, she provides resources and legal support to empower communities. Her leadership includes managing over $8 million in grants to expand mental health access and to fund school counselors. Anjenita has contributed at DCFS, La Rabida Children’s Advocacy Center, and By The Hand Club for Kids, ensuring children receive essential therapy and care. Her initiatives have forged over 100 partnerships across mental health, education, and policy reform. Anjenita serves as a board member for Creating Civil Community Leaders, holds an associate board position at Marillac St. Vincent, and participates in RTDO, DWSS, and DWSR. She proudly holds a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from DePaul University and a Master’s degree in Political Science from Northeastern Illinois University.

Sidney Johnson

Sidney Johnson, LCSW, has dedicated over 20 years to serving youth and families in Social Services. His commitment to advocacy and mental health earned him the Etiquette Foundation of Illinois’ Humanitarian Award in 2011. He holds a Master of Social Work (MSW) from Arizona State University, specializing in youth and family services. As Clinical Service Manager at Phalanx Family Services, he focuses on treating complex trauma in under served communities. Sidney also provides cognitive training for formerly incarcerated individuals, helping them break cycles of recidivism and trauma. His expertise lies in healing, empowerment, and rehabilitation for those facing significant challenges. A strong advocate for mental health equity, he champions access to counseling and social services. Through his leadership, he continues to uplift communities and fight for social justice.

Howard Robinson

Howard Orlando Robinson Sr., a dedicated public servant and military leader, currently serves as Chief of Staff for State Senator Michael E. Hastings, representing Illinois’ 19th Senate District. A former State Command Sergeant Major in the Illinois National Guard, Robinson has a distinguished career that began at the Cook County Bureau of Health Services. He earned a Master of Health Administration and a Bachelor of Science in Interdisciplinary Studies with a concentration in Public Administration from Governors State University, where he also served as an Adjunct Professor in Healthcare Policy and Politics and Epidemiology. Robinson is deeply involved in community service as a board member for Grand Prairie Behavioral Health Services and a Library Trustee in Olympia Fields. He is also an active member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity. A passionate advocate for public service, Robinson enjoys traveling, fishing, and dedicating time to his family, including his wife of 40 years and their ten grandchildren.

Dr. Knitasha Washington

Dr. Knitasha Washington, DHA, FACHE, is a nationally recognized leader in health systems change, driving healthcare transformation through quality, safety, and equity. As Founder and CEO of ATW Health Solutions, she pioneers initiatives that enhance mental health access, integrate behavioral health into care systems, and empower communities. ATW Health Solutions is federally recognized for its innovative approach to patient empowerment, working with the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) on quality and safety improvements.

Dr. Washington’s leadership has strengthened behavioral health coordination and expanded mental health access, shaping national policy through roles with the CMS, National Quality Forum, and NAHSE. She serves on the boards of Grand Prairie Behavioral Health Services and Southland Care Coordination Partners, strengthening behavioral health access and care integration. A legislative champion, she helped shape Illinois HB5014, a landmark in community-based stroke education and behavioral health integration, ensuring equitable, high-quality mental health care for all.

Dr. Tonya Roberson

Dr. Tonya S. Roberson, PhD, MPH, DTR, is a Community Psychologist and the Executive Director of Community Engagement, Research, and Science at the Henrietta Lacks House in Chicago. She also serves as a University Lecturer and Community Engagement Manager at Governors State University’s College of Health and Human Services and is the CEO and Founder of Helping Communities Help Themselves. With a deep commitment to health equity, disease prevention, and community empowerment, Dr. Roberson’s work focuses on biomedical research, culturally tailored health initiatives, and addressing social determinants of health disparities in urban Black communities. A trusted leader in Chicagoland, the Southland region, and beyond, she is dedicated to community organizing, advocacy, and equipping individuals with the tools to take control of their health. Through her transformative leadership, she continues to shape sustainable, community-driven solutions for improved public health.

Gloria Wright

Gloria Wright, a compassionate Counselor and Wellness Consultant, brings over 30 years of experience in healthcare coaching and advocating for at-risk female hospital patients and community-based client recovery care. She leverages her experience and knowledge to partner with organizations in reducing health disparities and improving overall well-being in under served communities. Gloria’s deep understanding of women’s health and its significance to families and communities makes her a vital asset in promoting holistic wellness and health equity.

Nicholas Keith Chambers

Nicholas Keith Chambers, known as “Nick” or “Keith,” is a Springfield, Illinois native. He has been married to Teawana Cole-Chambers for 30 years, and they have two sons. The family resides in Frankfort, Illinois, and are active members of Victory Apostolic Church in Matteson.

In 2022, Keith became Deputy Village Administrator for Matteson, leading economic development, downtown revitalization, and mental health initiatives. With 35+ years of experience, he has held senior positions under five Illinois Governors and two Cook County Board Presidents. He also served 17 years as a Trustee for South Holland, becoming the second African American in that role.

A four-time gubernatorial appointee, Keith has received multiple awards for community service and leadership. He holds degrees from University of Illinois-Springfield and Governors State University and is a Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc. member. In 2018, he pursued ministry at McCormick Seminary.

To be added
Valerie Tuggle