Superintendent Dr. James Everett is inviting Meridian families to a community connections event from 4 to 5:30 p.m. on Tuesday, Nov. 15 at Irene Reither Elementary School. This event will be focused on youth mental health to help spread awareness and support for the importance of mental health within our community.

Local organizations that provide mental and behavioral health services will share what they offer. Our own mental health coordinator, Laura Lupo, will also present about what services are available to families and students in Meridian. Families will also have an opportunity to meet with representatives from these local organizations.

Local organizations at the event include:

  • Brigid Collins Family Support Center – The center provides an array of both individual and group programs, as well as one-time training. All members of the Brigid Collins Family Support Team are focused on meeting the unique needs of each family and culture in Northwest Washington.

  • Compass Health – Northwest Washington’s behavioral healthcare leader. They are a community-based healthcare agency, integrating behavioral health and medical care services to support clients and communities.

  • Charlie Health – They provide an Intensive Outpatient Program (IOP) designed for those in need of more support than once-weekly therapy. They also provide a comprehensive care solution that includes multiple weekly sessions of supported groups, family therapy, and individual therapy for 9 to 12 weeks.

  • NAMI of Whatcom County – This is a local affiliate of the National Alliance on Mental Illness, the nation’s largest grassroots mental health organization. They are dedicated to building better lives for the millions of Americans affected by mental illness by providing free support groups, classes, and education forums to the community.

  • Meridian Family Support Center assists families in our community with basic needs such as food, clothing, hygiene supplies and more.

Light refreshments will be provided.