From 300 to 1,000+ Entries: How OpenWater Has Served as a Catalyst for Growth for the National Council for Behavioral Health
As the voice of America’s mental health and addiction providers, the National Council for Behavioral Health honors professionals pioneering innovation and progress for over 10 million adults and children. Their annual conference has quickly grown in both prominence and prestige as a celebratory event for an industry that often lacks the money, time, and ability to celebrate the innovation and good professionals create every day.
Just 5 to 6 years ago, the program drew 300 entries. Today, they receive more than 1,000 entries in 21 categories. Coming from both a paper-based method and clunky, inefficient online alternative, the National Council knew they needed a better solution. That’s when they found OpenWater.
“OpenWater has allowed us to simplify the entire process…”
says Khimmie Leong, an Associate with the National Council. And, if there’s one word that the entire organization uses to describe the software, it’s ease.
Kara Guerriero, the Vice President for Membership and Corporate Relations of the National Council said “Moving to the OpenWater system made things so much cleaner and easy to use. It’s extraordinarily user friendly both for our applicants and for judges.” And, because their judges are CEOs of member organizations, finding an efficient, simple way to judge was a must for any future platform.
By running the program in real time, OpenWater keeps up with the instant demand applicants place on the annual conference as well. Everything is fast, easy, and centralized to ensure there is no confusion or unexpected hiccups along the way.
“This award cements the work that I’ve been doing and tells me on the right path,”
said Kevin Briggs, CEO of Pivotal Points. The recipient of a Visionary Leadership Award at the most recent event, Kevin’s statement reflects the true value of awards programs: The ability to build a brand while celebrating the professionals that continue to drive innovation and progress in such an important industry.
“The payoff is in hoping to help someone change their life.” With OpenWater, the National Council can continue to recognize professionals like Kevin and celebrate progress in mental health and addiction where no usual celebration occurs.
Watch the video to hear firsthand from Khimmie, Kara, Kevin, and others about the impact of the National Council Awards of Excellence and how OpenWater has played a prominent role in their success.
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