THE FOLLOWING IS A VERMILION COUNTY 708 MENTAL HEALTH BOARD RELEASE
ABOVE: Jim Russell addresses the Danville City Council in 2023.
Danville, Illinois – The Vermilion County 708 Mental Health Board announces that Executive Director Jim Russell has stepped down from his role, marking the conclusion of a remarkable chapter of leadership, service, and advocacy for mental health in Vermilion County.
Jim Russell has served as Executive Director since August 2014, bringing nearly three decades of experience in counseling, supervision, and clinical leadership to the role. Throughout his tenure, he consistently went above and beyond to strengthen local mental health systems, expand access to care, and promote collaboration across agencies and community partners.
Under Jim’s leadership, the Vermilion County 708 Mental Health Board significantly expanded Mental Health First Aid training throughout the county, equipping hundreds of residents each year with the tools to recognize and respond to mental health challenges. This effort helped reduce stigma and increased community-wide understanding of mental wellness.
Jim also played a key role in addressing substance use and recovery needs by helping establish the Recovery-Oriented System of Care (ROSC) Council, uniting service providers, recovery programs, hospitals, and community organizations. His leadership helped secure $75,000 in local government funding to launch and sustain collaborative recovery efforts focused on long-term support and community integration. Wendy Lambert, ROSC Coordinator, will continue to lead this important program.
The mission of the Vermilion County 708 Mental Health Board is to plan, fund, and evaluate a coordinated system of community-based mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services, ensuring that Vermilion County residents have access to quality care, dignity, and opportunities for recovery. Jim’s vision and steady leadership have been instrumental in advancing this mission and strengthening the county’s mental health infrastructure.
The Vermilion County 708 Mental Health Board oversees funding to a diverse network of community agencies that provide mental health, substance use, developmental disability, and supportive services throughout Vermilion County. Funded partners include Crosspoint Human Services, Rosecrance Health Network, WorkSource Enterprises, Hoopeston Multi-Agency, Gateway Family Services, the Survivor Resource Center, New Directions Treatment Center, Project Success, and counseling services within the Vermilion County Juvenile Detention Center. Together, these agencies ensure a coordinated continuum of care that supports access, recovery,
and stability for county residents.
“Jim Russell’s impact cannot be measured solely in programs or funding,” said Russ Hiatt, Board Chair, “His compassion, integrity, and unwavering commitment to service have shaped a stronger, more responsive system of care for our community.”
As part of this transition, Jeri Spezia, who has served over eleven years as the Complex Services Administrative Assistant in the Board office, will step into the role of Interim Executive Director. Jeri brings extensive institutional knowledge, continuity, and dedication to the position and will help ensure a smooth transition as the Board moves forward.
“I am truly honored and excited to step into the Interim Executive Director role during this transition,” said Jeri Spezia. “Jim Russell leaves behind an incredible legacy of leadership, compassion, and collaboration. I know I have very big shoes to fill, but I am committed to building on the strong foundation he has established and to continuing the Board’s mission of supporting accessible, quality mental health services for Vermilion County residents.”
The Vermilion County 708 Mental Health Board office is located at 200 S College Street, Danville, IL. Individuals interested in applying for the permanent Executive Director position may find more information and submit applications at: vercounty.org/human-resources/job-opportunities
The Board extends its deepest gratitude to Jim Russell for his outstanding service, leadership, and lasting contributions to mental health and recovery services in Vermilion County. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire the work ahead.
