Forum to discuss community inclusion
The Pioneer Center for Human Services will host a forum to educate McHenry County residents and business how they can become involved in community inclusion - a service delivery model that is changing the landscape of behavioral health services in McHenry County.
Scheduled from 9 a.m. to noon Thursday, Aug. 13, the forum is open to the community.
The interactive session will introduce the concept of community inclusion which is based upon creating opportunities for increased presence and participation in the community for individuals living with mental illness. Community inclusion works to overcome barriers through activities including community-based employment, housing, education, spirituality, recreation, as well as socialization activities, connectivity with local colleges, job readiness skills and assistance in finding community-based health care.
Featuring Mark Salzer, Ph.D., professor and chairman of the Department of Rehabilitation Sciences at Temple University, the forum will teach what community inclusion is and how to be a part of it.
Agenda items include a short documentary, a panel discussion with individuals currently participating in community inclusion activities and a panel discussion with community partners that make these efforts possible in McHenry County.
The forum will take place at Pioneer Center for Community Mental Health, 4100 Veterans Parkway in McHenry. Those wishing to attend should reserve their seat by contacting Heidi Jenkins, community inclusion manager, at (815) 759-7027 or hjenkins@pioneercenter.org.
To learn more about Pioneer Center, visit www.pioneercenter.org or call (815) 344-1230.