The Center for Policy, Advocacy and Education of the MHAofNYC

The Mental Health Association of New York City and The Mental Health Association of Westchester established the Center for Policy and Advocacy in January 2003 to promote the development of, and advocacy for, mental health policies that support high quality practices designed to meet the mental health needs of the diverse population in New York and in the United States.

The Center¡¦s goals are:

? Advocacy for mental health policies that promote a comprehensive system of care

? The identification of broad social trends and the development of related long-term mental health policy recommendations

? Serving as a center for mental health policy information (a "data bank") for policymakers, advocates, journalists, and others concerned about mental health policy and practice

? Providing consultation and training regarding policy, finance, management, and advocacy for organizations, advocates, and policy makers concerned about mental health

? Fostering improved communication and cooperation among stakeholders in the mental health system throughout the Metropolitan NYC area

? Enhancing public awareness of critical mental health policy and funding issues.

Current projects include:

? The Geriatric Mental Health Alliance of New York
? The Task Force to Preserve Behavioral Health Services if General Hospitals Close
? Participation in Campaign for Mental Health Housing
? Promoting improved and expanded child mental health services
? Promoting enhanced funding for mental health services
? Fostering mental health through workplace initiatives (in partnership with NAMI-NYC)
? Training in mental health policy and advocacy