The Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester (MHCGM) recently announced an expansion and renewed commitment to its Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) initiative. More than 20 years ago, The Center began a journey to offer culturally effective care and create a more welcoming environment for those of varied backgrounds and experiences. To achieve this aspirational goal, an internal action plan was developed, which included education and training, along with outreach to minority or marginalized communities. “We recognize that each employee’s unique experiences, perspectives, and viewpoints add value to our ability to create and deliver the best possible service to our patients, family members, and other stakeholders,” said Patricia Carty, MHCGM President, and CEO.
The DEI renewal efforts at MHCGM will build upon past successes and update best practices. Implementation plans include working with an NH-based consulting firm, “Organizational Ignition”, which will guide the organizational assessment and planning process, foundational and leadership training, and developing a roadmap for the future. “As a result of this effort, we can expect to gain new skills and knowledge that will serve us well in working together and serving our community in alignment with our guiding values and principles,” added Carty.
In addition, MHCGM was selected, by The National Council on Mental Wellbeing, as one of just 37 organizations from 24 states to participate in Project Echo focused on Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion, with MHCGM being the only NH mental health center to participate. Project Echo is a six-session/six-month-long program that offers MHCGM an opportunity to engage with other healthcare provider organizations through didactic and case presentations on issues related to health equity and integrated care.
About MHCGMThe Mental Health Center of Greater Manchester is a private, non-profit organization dedicated to providing a comprehensive suite of behavioral health care services tailored to building lives that are worth living. MHCGM is the largest outpatient community mental health care facility in the state of NH and serves over 11,000 children and adults each year. The Center has frequently been recognized for the quality of its evidence-based practices and was recently voted the “Best Non-Profit” organization and “Best Mental Health Clinic” by the community-at-large in the Best of 603 competition.