The Mental Health Board of Riverside Township has the general purpose of advocating, providing, and evaluating programs and services which enhance the mental health of the community of Riverside Township. The Board supports those programs which sustain and improve the well being of individuals, their attitude toward themselves, and their adjustment to the community and each other, and acts as a source of mental health information and as a representative of the community at large.

In the early 1970’s, the people of Riverside Township were early to recognize that a healthy community is one where people have access to healthcare and human services that focus on the whole person – including their mental health and related needs.

In 1972, Township voters approved a referendum that allowed for the creation of the Riverside Township Mental Health Board. Since that time, volunteer board members have worked to identify the mental health, substance abuse and developmental and intellectual disability needs of our community and contract for services to meet those needs.

In 2017, the Mental Health Board conducted a community needs assessment, asking residents to provide their input. The results of this assessment showed that there was a need to address the lack of services in the Township in three particular areas: people with addiction issues, people with disabilities, and older adults. A program was created with help from three local, core agencies to provide individuals and families with guidance and referrals needed to live safely and successfully in the greater community. That program became the Community Resource Center. A Community Resource Guide was also made available online, which can be downloaded here.

How is the Mental Health Board related to the Township?
The volunteer members of the Mental Health Board are appointed by the Township Supervisor and approved by the Township Trustees. While the Mental Health Board operates independently, it coordinates closely with Township government to make sure that resources are available locally to promote a high quality of life for all Township residents.

What programs and organizations do the Mental Health Board support?
The Mental Health Board, by State statute, focuses on the areas of mental health and substance abuse and developmental disabilities. The Board issues contracts to local agencies to provide services for Township residents.  Currently, the core agencies are:

• Pillars Community Health
• Helping Hand Center
• Community Support Services

In addition, the Board provides more limited funding to: UCP Seguin, A Way Back Inn, Aging Care Connections, and NAMI Metro Suburban.

Do you have to be a Township resident to receive services?
Yes, the funds allocated by the Mental Health Board are for the exclusive benefit of Township residents.

Who should I contact if I need mental health support?
The Mental Health Board has launched an information and referral service, based at the Township Hall. The Community Resource Center is staffed on Mondays from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm, Tuesdays from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, Wednesdays from 9:00 am – 1:00 pm, and Thursdays from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Township residents may call this Center at 708-853-9578. Calls received outside of the hours listed are returned promptly within one to two days. The Resource Center can also be reached via email at: crc@riversidetownship.org.

• If you are in crisis, please call the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 1-800-273-TALK (8255), or contact the Crisis Text Line by texting TALK to 741741

What if I live outside of Riverside Township and need mental health services?
Each of the agencies listed above provide services to a larger geographic area. Those who do not live in Riverside Township should contact them directly. They should also feel free to call the Community Resource Center number and the staff may be able to offer referral resources.