Township Community Mental Health Board Hosts Provider Networking Event

Since its inception in late 2022, the Vernon Township Mental Health Board focused on completing a Community Needs Assessment to better understand any service deficits or barriers for residents to access mental health services. Part of the assessment involved focus groups from local mental health service providers. Those who participated expressed a desire to continue working with each other and the Township Board agreed to facilitate future events to keep these groups connected. Due to that pledge, area mental health service providers, nonprofit administrators and volunteers are invited to attend the first “Provider Networking Event” Thursday, February 29 at 8:30 a.m. at the Township Community Service Building, 2900 N. Milwaukee Avenue in Buffalo Grove. Participants will be encouraged to share experiences and learn from each other about mental health needs and services to close any potential gaps in service delivery.

The overarching goal of this event is to address the array of mental health, substance use, and developmental disability needs of Vernon Township residents.

“Uniting local providers and organizations, as well as collaborating on the mental health needs of the community is important to improve service delivery in this area,” said Board President Noelle Moore. “We are excited to gain as much assistance as possible in promoting healing and reducing the stigma of mental health in our community.”

Initial results from the assessment, which was performed by Northern Illinois University, revealed many residents believe mental health services are cost prohibitive, or they are unaware of services available to them. Due to this initial information, the upcoming event will be focused on ensuring cost is not a deterrent to individuals who need assistance, and organizations that provide services are promoted more comprehensively – and in partnership with the Township Mental Health Board and area municipalities.

To help implement new initiatives and to fulfill its mission, the Board is currently seeking a full-time Administrative Specialist who will split their time supporting Vernon Township and the Mental Health Board. For more information, visit vernontownship.com/Jobs.aspx. To learn more about the Mental Health Board, or to contact them directly, visit vernontownship.com/286/Mental-Health-Board.