Joy Jay Announces Her Retirement! 

Joy Jay, Executive Director for Mental Health America in South Carolina, has announced her retirement date of June 30, 2026.

Joy’s career began in 1978 in the mental health field in the State of Alabama. She has worked at many agencies in South Carolina, with MHASC being her heart and purpose to serve persons with mental health issues throughout the state of South Carolina. 

Joy became the Executive Director of MHASC in 2002, and under her leadership it has grown exponentially. During her tenure, MHASC and its affiliates have built 21 apartment complexes serving 290 residents across the state, including many rural areas. She has also maintained two group homes and eight tiny houses. Bridges Clubhouse has grown into a CARF-certified program, with over 50 members attending each day. 

MHASC’s education program is one of the biggest in the state, with two and a half team members teaching more than 3,500 people every year.

Joy and her husband, Graylin, plan to spend as much time as possible with their two grandchildren and visit family in Australia and Hawaii, along with several other trips.

MHASC and the staff appreciate Joy’s 25 years of service, and the love and caring commitment she has given to helping people with mental health issues and wish her well in her retirement.

The Board of Directors has set up a committee to name Joy’s replacement in the next few months.