In continuing with the celebration of The Friends of NorthKey’s 50th Anniversary, The Friends would like to recognize one of its founding members that has been intimately involved in fulfilling The Friends’ mission for 50 years with the 2020 Friends of NorthKey Ray of Hope Award. That member is Mrs. Mary Wirtz. Mary was a founding member of The Friends of Comprehensive Care, which later became The Friends of NorthKey, and Mary’s unique talents have benefitted The Friends in so many ways over the past 50 years. Mary always goes quietly about her business of helping individuals 
and families in need, but when she has something to say people listen. Along with her late husband Mr. Tony Wirtz, she has introduced new members into the Friends from other community groups and has encouraged people to contribute with whatever talents they have. Mary has been able to persuade people to donate or participate in a very non-intrusive way, which is often difficult to do at times. Over the past 50 years, Mary has been a consistent driving force who has led The Friends in working to achieve their goal of reducing the stigma associated with mental illness, substance use, and developmental disabilities.
On behalf of all the past and present members of the Friends of NorthKey, NorthKey clients, staff, and board members, The Friends present the 2020 Friends of NorthKey Ray of Hope Award to Mrs. Mary Wirtz for her 50 years of service to The Friends and to the entire Northern Kentucky community.
The Friends of NorthKey, a group of volunteers, graciously dedicates their time and efforts to selfless service of working to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities services throughout the Northern Kentucky region. The efforts and activities of The Friends are made possible by donations and support from the larger community. If you wish to support The Friends’ efforts to reduce the stigma associated with seeking mental health, substance use, and developmental disabilities services, please consider a donation by visiting https://www.northkey.org/friends-of-northkey/ .
