DEAR FRIENDS OF SOUND,

As we embark on a new year, now is the time to reflect on the journey behind us and our aspirations for the year ahead. In 2023, our organization navigated change, met new challenges, and strengthened our operational efficiency and care delivery.

Reflecting on last year, I’d like to extend my gratitude to Sound’s Chairman, Tom Bolger, and the entire board who have given their time, talents and financial support towards the betterment of behavioral health in our community. Working alongside such gifted, compassionate, and committed stewards of Sound is a true pleasure.

A heartfelt thank you to our invaluable 2023 donors, each of whom directly influences the number of individuals we can reach. Your concern for community members with limited access to essential support is truly commendable. A special acknowledgment goes to our steadfast long-term donors, whose consistent support has been instrumental in Sound's enduring mission, values, and journey.

On behalf of Sound, I’m immensely grateful to our Washington State legislators for approving the 2023-2025 state operating budget and in doing so, allowing for rate increases of behavioral healthcare fees. Their leadership in advocating for this additional funding is critical to our agency’s ability to meet surging demand and increase access to care for those in need.

I also want to express profound gratitude to our dedicated Sound team. Their unwavering commitment, relentless compassion and immense dedication makes a difference and saves lives. The work they do each day provides hope and a path to recovery for all.

In other exciting news, 2023 saw the addition of key leaders to our executive team – Stacey Lopez, Chief Clinical and Quality Officer; Eddie Pasatiempo, Chief Impact and Community Engagement Officer; and Phaedra Pascoe, Chief Medical Officer. Their wealth of expertise and boundless energy bode well for Sound's journey ahead, as we aim to reach new heights in the coming year.

Which brings me to today, and the pressing need to do more for our behavioral health community. As I look forward to 2024, I am excited about the incredible possibilities and Sound's ongoing commitment to realize them.

These possibilities include:

• Intensifying efforts and resources towards our Substance Use Disorder
• Programs to combat the growing opioid crisis.
• Expanding programs to ensure comprehensive mental health care for children and their families in our community.
• Developing our residential services to offer supportive living care options for those suffering from co-occurring disorders, emphasizing holistic integrated care.
• Actively championing state support for Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC) in Washington State, in order to provide for a more quality-driven, affordable, effective and accessible model for Behavioral Health.
• Creating a new Crisis Center for our community members who are in acute distress and require immediate intervention and care.

The need for behavioral health services in our community is vast, and your continued support and generosity will make a significant difference. Together, we will do more in 2024 to positively impact lives.

Thank you for standing with us on this crucial journey.

Sincerely,

Katrina Egner
Sound President & CEO