Local communities rally to support mental health and substance abuse services with 708 Mental Health Boards
As the need for mental health and substance abuse services has surged by 200% since the COVID-19 pandemic, local volunteers are stepping up to address this critical demand.
This summer, dedicated community members have been working to enhance the quality of life in their neighborhoods by securing additional funding for these essential services.
In Illinois, 708 Mental Health Boards offer a powerful solution to increase funding and support for agencies addressing mental health issues, substance abuse, and developmental disabilities. These boards are established through local voter-approved ballot referendums.
Comprised of local, unpaid volunteers committed to their community, 708 Boards provide small annual grants to fund vital programs. These grants are designed to fill gaps in services, such as reducing long waiting lists and eliminating arbitrary service cutoffs.
Importantly, the grants are pass-through funds with no administrative costs, ensuring that every dollar goes directly to support community needs.
On Nov. 5, residents in York, Wayne, and Winfield townships will have the opportunity to vote on creating 708 Mental Health Boards in their areas.
Easter Seals, a notable grant recipient, has seen firsthand the positive impact of these funds.
Theresa Forthofer, [resident and CEO of DuPage and Fox Valley Easter Seals, remarked, "708 Boards have mobilized throughout our service areas to support initiatives that significantly enhance community health. As a grant beneficiary, we are able to allocate these funds to advance our mental health and pediatric therapy services, helping all children and their families thrive."
Voting "yes" on a 708 referendum approves a modest tax increase dedicated to funding expanded services.
For instance, in Winfield Township, Cyd Paulsen, a local volunteer, explained that the proposed levy for homeowners would be $16 annually for $100,000 of assessed value — less than the cost of a single dinner out. Collectively, this small contribution makes a substantial difference in community well-being.
Previously, successful 708 Mental Health Board referendums have been established in Addison, Bloomingdale, Lisle, and Milton townships.
About Advocate for 708
Advocate for 708 is a dedicated volunteer organization that supports townships and municipalities in establishing 708 Community Mental Health Boards.
Through their efforts, Advocate for 708 has successfully created nine 708 Boards across DuPage and Cook counties, which collectively provide over $16 million in annual grant funding to support organizations addressing mental health issues, substance use disorders, and developmental disabilities.
To learn more about our work and how you can get involved, visit www.advocatefor708.org.
Stay connected with us on Facebook: www.facebook.com/Mentalhealthboards4DuPage.