Sun’s Out, Fun’s Out at BHSN’s Summer Bash

A crowd gathers around as a heavy splash is heard. Another ball is thrown, another target hit, and another bucket of water spills onto the BHSN team member volunteering to sit in the dunk tank . Cheers (and playful jeers) erupt over the live music playing in the background. The Summer Bash is in full effect.

Everybody needs a break now and then to maintain their mental and physical wellness. To do your best work, you need to feel your best -- which includes embracing playfulness. And this event was exactly what the doctor ordered!

Behavioral Health Services North held its annual Summer Bash events at both of its Centers for Well-Being in Queensbury and Morrisonville. This event is a staff appreciation initiative aimed at giving BHSN’s heroes the opportunity to press pause, let their hair down, and be recognized for their hard work.

Large, outdoor games litter the lawn, inviting friendly competition and casual conversation. The DJ lends his microphone to a group of off-the-clock clinicians and care navigators as they break out into a lively impromptu karaoke session – belting out upbeat 90’s classics. Staff are having fun and the energy is palpable.

Local food trucks line the parking lot of the Center for Well-Being, offering employees free meals, refreshing drinks, and delicious ice cream. Among the businesses providing flavorful food include Adirondack Food Therapy, Papa Dukes, Cooley Ice Cream, and The Hungry Traveler.

Across the lot resides a baby goat, a family of ducklings, a pair of bunnies, a friendly horse, and a chicken -- all relaxing in the shade and soaking up affection from fawning staff members who have come over to say “hello.” To everyone’s excitement, Kickin’ Up Dust Farm and Adirondack Dream Catcher Farm appeared with some of their particularly friendly pets.

On this sunny day of bonding and team building, BHSN staff, board members, and senior leadership came together to play games, enjoy live music, dig into hearty cook-out meals provided by local businesses, commune with therapeutic farm animals, relax, and mingle. It was a meaningful day of camaraderie and true appreciation for one another.

“There aren't many employers in the area that give back to their employees the way that BHSN does. Events such as these are always appreciated!” exclaimed one BHSN employee.

“Each year gets better and better,” said another.