North Shore Mental Health Group Celebrates Decade of Advocacy, Looks to Next Generation of Leadership
SILVER BAY, MN — The North Shore Mental Health Group (NSMHG), a pivotal regional organization uniting professionals, caregivers, advocates, and individuals with lived experience, convened on September 18th to celebrate its extensive history of community service and cast a vision for the future. The meeting served as both a retrospective on more than a decade of stigma-reducing work and a launching point for new leadership initiatives.
For over ten years, the NSMHG has consistently worked to normalize the conversation around mental health in the Northland. Their awareness efforts extend beyond traditional advocacy, incorporating engaging community events ranging from recreational outings like skiing and kite-flying to festive potlucks. In collaboration with the Lake County Task Force, the NSMHG maintains an annual, highly visible presence at Bay Days in Silver Bay, a strategic effort aimed at directly confronting and dismantling mental health stigma.
A highlight of the evening was the recognition of the integral role played by Reverend Dean Rudloff, who was instrumental in the NSMHG’s sustained success. Rev. Rudloff was praised for utilizing his diverse talents: his communicative gifts as a minister were deployed to write impactful articles for local newspapers; his compassionate nature made him a trusted and empathetic listener for those sharing their stories; and his organizational skills provided the essential backbone for coordinating events, educational opportunities, and volunteer efforts.
Silver Bay Mayor Wade LeBlanc was present to honor Rudloff’s commitment. “Congrats to Dean Rudloff for Mental Health Advocate of the Year,” Mayor LeBlanc stated. “No one deserves it more than Dean.” Rudloff’s consistent energy and dedication have been a driving force behind both the NSMHG and broader regional change for over a decade.
The meeting also featured the perspective of Ashley Belanger, owner of Up North Therapy, who reinforced the group’s core mission. Belanger passionately asserted, “Mental health is health. At Up North Therapy, we are committed to walking alongside our community—providing accessible, compassionate care right here in the Northland.” Belanger further highlighted that Up North Therapy is actively utilizing grant funding to offset the cost of services, ensuring financial barriers do not prevent community members from accessing necessary support.
Mayor LeBlanc, reiterating his civic commitment, also spoke on the path forward for the region. “In order to help solve mental health issues, we need to understand the wide range of problems that accompany it,” he noted, urging a more comprehensive and informed community discussion.
As the North Shore Mental Health Group transitions its focus, it is actively seeking to invite the next generation of leaders into its ranks to sustain its momentum. Community members interested in joining the NSMHG’s efforts are encouraged to visit their Facebook page. The public will have a direct opportunity to participate in the group’s advocacy during Bay Days 2026, where the NSMHG will be soliciting nominations for the Mental Health Advocate of 2026.
