Sheppard Pratt to Affiliate With Dundalk Mental Health Nonprofit

Citing its "stable organization," a Dundalk mental health nonprofit will affiliate with the Towson-based , the organizations announced Thursday.

The agreement with Alliance Inc. was approved by the boards of both organizations and will take effect July 1.

Alliance, based at 7701 Wise Avenue in Dundalk, provides housing, psychiatric, vocational and other services for people with mental and physical disabilities and for veterans.

"The opportunity to affiliate with a stable organization such as Sheppard Pratt will assure the continued longevity of Alliance," Dr. Charlotte Exner, dean of College of Health Professions and chair of the Alliance board of directors, said in a press release. "As we come to grips with the uncertainties of the unfolding nuances of health reform, we feel a sense of reassurance to be part of a larger organization with an aligned and long standing commitment to mission and to the needs of our consumers."

According to the release, Alliance's services, board of directors and leadership will stay in place under the terms of the agreement.

Sheppard Pratt officials believe the affiliation will expand its presence in the Baltimore metropoltan area.

"Not only does this affiliation give our organization increased presence as a community provider in eastern Baltimore City and County and in Harford County, but it represents the marriage of two highly regarded organizations with longstanding reputations for quality care," Dr. Steven S. Sharfstein, Sheppard Pratt's president and CEO, said in a press release.