On Thursday, December 8th 2022, Representative Lindsey LaPointe’s office, in collaboration with Senator Martwick and other local elected officials came together with nearly 20 service providers to increase community awareness on local mental health and wellness resources here on the northwest side. The event included a robust tabling section, and five 20-minute informational sessions on how to approach mental health issues and maintain healthy practices.
Below you can find the full list of organizations, and a recap of the informational sessions with links to each organization’s website and directions on how to connect with them.
| 10. Pace Bus | |
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11. Trilogy |
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12. Sinai Health |
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| 9. NWS Homeless Outreach |
18. CTS Health |
Summary of the Informational Sessions
The Kedzie Center | Supporting Your Child’s Mental Health and Well-Being
In this session, we learned about child development, supporting our children’s social and emotional competence, supporting strong social connections and being mindful that as parents/guardians our own physical, mental and emotional needs are met also. You can view this full presentation here.
The Kedzie Center provides individual, family and group therapy, psychiatric consultation, and guidance in identifying and accessing community resources. Their service area includes parts of Albany Park, North Park, Irving Park and Sauganash.
To make an appointment, you contact the Kedzie Center at 773-754-0577.
Meditation Center of Chicago | Intro to Meditation
A Buddhist monk and meditation expert explained and introduced meditation, its benefits, and how it is practiced. They also led a brief introductory meditation session.
The Meditation Center of Chicago was founded by members of the Thai Buddhist community whose goals are to spread the many benefits of mindfulness meditation, offer information on Buddhist tradition, and provide an environment for anyone interested in exploring the richness of Thai culture.
You can find an overview of their regular programs here. For questions, you can contact the Meditation Center by calling 773-433-6100 or texting 773-680-0313.
NAMI Chicago | How to Find Support When In Need
This session explored how to use NAMI Chicago’s Helpline, a local resource available 7 days a week for help finding the right mental health resources. The session also shared information about the new crisis line operating in Illinois and nationwide, 988. 988 is an easy- to- remember direct connection to compassionate, accessible care and support for anyone experiencing mental health-related distress, including family, friends, and/or caregivers.
National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) brings the needs of persons with mental illness and their families to the attention of legislators, service providers, medical staff, and the general public.
To contact NAMI Chicago’s free and confidential helpline, you can call 833-626-4244. NAMI Chicago’s Helpline provides a listening ear, guidance and connection to the right mental health and social service resources, over the phone.
Lutheran Social Services of Illinois (LSSI) | Getting Connected to LSSI
LSSI shared tips for maintaining mental wellness during the winter holidays, the range of services available in the community, and when and how to reach out for help. The expanded behavioral health services available at their Byron Street location in Portage Park were also covered, including both virtual and in-person services and how to access them. You can view LSSI’s full presentation here.
LSSI is one of the largest statewide social service providers. LSSI welcomes all people and provides a wide array of services including mental health.
To contact LSSI’s mental health unit, call 833-610-5774.
Envision Unlimited | Trauma Informed Care
Envision described what trauma is and how it impacts people. Trauma does not discriminate and can affect anyone from any socioeconomic status. Some highlights of trauma-informed care include changing language of blame to that of understanding and compassion. Family, friends, and professionals can make small changes to their language to gain a better understanding of those experiencing trauma. Trauma is something that happened to someone, not who they are. You can view Envision Unlimited’s full presentation here.
Envision Unlimited provides day programs, community living services, employment services, a foster care program, and mental health services.
For a complimentary phone screening or to schedule an appointment, call Envision’s intake coordinator at (773) 506-3161.
Questions for us? Please contact us at info@replapointe.com or 773-647-1174
Event Photos
Monk Klint of the Meditation Center of Chicago speaking during his Intro to Meditation Session
Local resident conversing with representatives from the Irving Park YMCA
Residents listening to Rachel Bhagwat of NAMI Chicago during her presentation on NAMI’s Chicago Helpline and the nationwide crisis hotline, 988
Residents speaking with representatives from Envision Unlimited
LCSW Cassandra Firkins of the Kedzie Center facilitating her presentation on Children’s Mental Health
Residents speaking with representatives from Swedish Hospital, Maryville’s Center for Children, and Perspective Behavioral Health
Rep. Eva Dina-Delgado, Rep. Jaime Andrade, Commissioner Bridget Degnen, and Rep. LaPointe sharing some opening words.
