The Waterfront Foundation officials also unveiled a plaque honoring Richard Forsberg for his donation that sparked the creation of the new facility.

During a recent visit and lunch with staff, Forsberg shared stories of his connection to the region.

“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.”

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.

Richard Forsburg unveils the plaque dedicated in his name for his monetary gift to The Waterfront Foundation that prompted an investment in a new Behavioral Health suite at The Chautauqua Center in Jamestown. Forsburg is joined by Clark Poppleton, The Waterfront Foundation board member.

“On behalf of The Waterfront Foundation, we are profoundly grateful to Richard Forsberg for his exceptional generosity,” said Michael Pease, The Waterfront Foundation CEO. “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.”

Forsberg’s contribution marked a step forward in expanding access to mental health and substance use disorder services in the region. Leveraged with grants from the Chautauqua Region Community Foundation and a Community Development Block Grant through the city of Jamestown, 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.

“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,” said Heather Chopra Riolo, fundraising coordinator at The Waterfront Foundation.

For more than a decade, TCC has provided 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. 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.

“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,” Pease said. “This new suite will significantly enhance our ability to provide integrated care and foster healing within our community.”