Porter-Starke Services is proud to announce that Michael Bendicsen has recently joined its Board of Directors. Bendicsen is the Assistant Principal at Knox Community High School. 
“I believe strongly in the mission of Porter-Starke Services and the process of mental health treatment,” Bendicsen said. “We need to have options for people to help themselves,” he said.
Bendicsen is married to Elizabeth, a licensed guidance counselor, and with their two young children live in Valparaiso. Working in Starke County gives Bendicsen a unique perspective, and inspired his decision to become involved with Porter-Starke.
“Valparaiso and Porter County, as well as Knox and Starke County have been very good to my family and me, and I like the idea of giving back in both places,” he said. “I look forward to talking with stakeholders in Starke County to see what types of programs we may need to add.”
Porter-Starke Services President/CEO Rocco Schiralli is happy that Bendicsen has joined the board. “While we’ve always been dedicated to Starke County, we’re pleased to have Michael’s perspective and involvement to help us continually refine and enhance our presence in the community,” Schiralli said. “Each of our board members brings a unique set of talents and perspectives, and we’re thrilled that Michael has decided to share his with us as well.”
Bendicsen is a graduate of Valparaiso University, and has lived in the community for 20 years. He has served in several educational capacities throughout his career including teaching in Valparaiso, Portage, LaCrosse and serving as an elementary school principal in Gary. Bendicsen’s family has a long history of public service that includes special education instructors, teachers, social workers and police officers.
Porter-Starke Services is a not-for-profit community mental health center with offices in Valparaiso, Portage and Knox. It celebrates its 35th anniversary of providing high quality behavioral health and substance abuse treatment in 2010. For more information visit www.porterstarke.org or call (219) 531-3500.