Collaborating with organizations and elected public officials is crucial for expanding mental health resources and access in communities. CTSHealth Chicago has been extremely successful in making these connections and improving lives.
Through collaboration, communities are strengthened by the pooling of financial, human, and logistical resources. Organizations, such as CTSHealth, have the expertise and public officials can allocate funds or direct resources where they are most needed. Joint efforts also ensure funds are used efficiently and ensure services reach underserved populations. In recent years, CTSHealth Chicago has been awarded several large grants to support all regardless of ability to pay, immigration status, or health insurance. They are frequently invited into conversations about plans and growth for behavioral health services.
Elected officials can influence policy and enact laws that prioritize mental health at the local and state levels. Collaborating with them ensures mental health issues are on the political agenda. CTSHealth has grassroots connections, while elected officials have access to broader communication channels. With this broader reach, collaborations allow for mental health services to more diverse and remote populations and dismantle barriers to care.
In June of 2024, CTSHealth Chicago was invited to participate in an initiative with the City of Chicago, The Zakat Foundation, the Archdiocese, Cook County, and 30th Ward Alderwoman Ruth Cruz. St. Bart Church welcomed migrants to the area, providing them with housing and supporting services. Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson was also present to commemorate this first extensive collaboration of its kind.
Having these long-term partnerships has fostered trust in the Chicago communities. Chicagoans are confident in the work of CTSHealth - these are not one-time efforts, but sustainable and have long-term impact. These connections with officials and communities provide CTSHealth with continued opportunities for more grants, funding, and expansion of services.
