It’s official. Communities In Schools of Chicago’s submission to the State Farm Neighborhood Assist program has been selected in the top 200 causes. But in order to make this cause actionable, we need your support!
Vote HERE between now and August 27, and you’ll help launch CIS of Chicago’s cause into the top 40 — thus securing our organization a grant to bring this idea to life.
Why should you vote for CIS of Chicago’s cause?
Well, to be candid, our idea will make a huge impact in the lives of everyday Chicagoans. Through the State Farm grant, CIS of Chicago will provide Mental Health First Aid trainings to address the need for mental health support in North Lawndale. North Lawndale, a neighborhood Chicago’s west side, is one of the communities most affected by behavioral health hospitalizations. In 2020, seven deaths by suicide occurred in a single, two-mile radius in North Lawndale. With suicide and other mental health crises on the rise, CIS of Chicago hopes to provide resources and education around this issue.
Why is Mental Health First Aid so important for the community?
Mental Health First Aid trainings help empower folks to respond to someone experiencing a mental health crisis. CIS of Chicago team members conduct Mental Health First Aid trainings so that more caring adults have the skills to recognize the behavior of someone in crisis — and respond to them effectively. Unfortunately, studies show that young people are experiencing more symptoms of mental health crises, symptoms that have been exacerbated by the pandemic. Just last year, Chicago lost a nine-year-old to suicide. Funding from the State Farm Neighborhood Assist Program will ensure that these trainings are effective and well-attended.
What impact will this have in North Lawndale?
In addition to suicide, anxiety and depression are also on the rise, particularly for Chicago’s south and west sides. Through Mental Health First Aid training, CIS of Chicago’s team of experienced relationship builders, educators, and youth advocates can interrupt this trend in North Lawndale. CIS currently has partnerships with five schools in the neighborhood (some of whom have been partners for more than 15 years). Mental Health First Aid trainings allow our team to provide a continuum of care for these schools — and the community at large.
Our organization is dedicated to surrounding students with a community of support, and these trainings help expand that support. Vote today — and every day — before August 27 to get this cause funded in North Lawndale.
