The Chautauqua Center and The Waterfront Foundation officials, along with donor Richard Forsburg (second from left), cut the ribbon on the new Behavioral Health suite at The Chautauqua Center in Jamestown. From left are: Matthew Hanley, marketing director for TWF; Mr. Forsburg; Clark Poppleton, TCC and TWF board member; Michael Pease, CEO and President of TCC and TWF; Heather Chopra Riolo, TWF fundraising coordinator; and Alicia Ekstrom, TWF director of recruitment and retention and health and wellness.

JAMESTOWN – The Waterfront Foundation (TWF), supporting The Chautauqua Center (TCC), recently cut the ribbon on a new behavioral health suite on the second floor of the organization’s Institute Street location in Jamestown. TWF officials also unveiled a plaque honoring Richard Forsberg for his generous donation that sparked the creation of the new facility.

Forsburg’s gift helped to transform The Chautauqua Center’s behavioral health unit into a more welcoming, healing, and modern space for patients and providers alike. The donation has funded targeted facility upgrades, including improved lighting, soundproofing, and aesthetic enhancements. This not only supports patient comfort and dignity but also improves provider retention and recruitment efforts.

Forsberg’s significant contribution marked a pivotal step forward in expanding access to essential mental health and substance use disorder services in the Greater Jamestown Area. Leveraged with grants from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and a Community Development Block Grant through the City of Jamestown, Mr. Forsberg’s philanthropic commitment makes possible a modern behavioral health program that offers a welcoming, therapeutic, and dignified environment for patients from all walks of life.

During a recent visit and lunch with staff, Forsberg shared stories of his connection to the region and his deep-rooted love for Jamestown and Chautauqua County. “This area has given me so much over the years — it shaped who I am,” Forsberg said. “Giving back to the community that built me is something I truly enjoy. I love being here, especially spending time with childhood friends and family, and I’m proud to support local efforts that expand access to mental health care.”

TWF Chief Executive Officer Michael Pease stated, “On behalf of The Waterfront Foundation, we are profoundly grateful to Richard Forsberg for his exceptional generosity. This gift is not just a financial contribution; it’s an investment in the well-being of our community, enabling The Chautauqua Center to enhance and expand its critical behavioral health services. It truly exemplifies the spirit of impactful community health services.”

Heather Chopra Riolo, Fundraising Coordinator at The Waterfront Foundation, added, “Mr. Forsberg’s gift is more than financial. It’s a reflection of his heart for this community — and his belief that everyone deserves access to a space where healing can truly begin.”

For more than a decade, TCC has long been a cornerstone of healthcare in the region, providing integrated medical, dental, pharmaceutical, and behavioral health services. The addition of the new behavioral health suite will allow for increased capacity, improved privacy, and a more specialized environment.

Pease further stated, “The demand for accessible and high-quality behavioral health services has never been greater. Mr. Forsberg’s remarkable gift will directly empower us to meet this growing need by creating a dedicated space where individuals can receive the compassionate care they deserve. This new suite will significantly enhance our ability to provide integrated care and foster healing within our community.”

Behavioral health is an integral component of overall wellness, impacting individuals, families, and the broader community. Investments in these services are crucial for addressing the increasing prevalence of mental health disorders and substance use challenges, contributing to stronger, healthier lives.

Forsberg’s donation serves as an inspiring example of how individual philanthropy can drive tangible improvements in public health infrastructure. The newly enhanced behavioral health unit now stands as a testament to how personal philanthropy, local pride, and community partnerships can come together to change lives.

The Waterfront Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to Forsberg for his visionary support. His commitment will have a lasting positive impact on countless lives in the Jamestown area, ensuring that more residents have access to the behavioral health care they need.