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20 HARTFORD BUSINESS JOURNAL | MAY 2024 | BUSINESS PROFILES Address: 76 Batterson Park Road, Suite 303, Farmington, CT 06032 Phone: (860) 529-1970 Fax: (860) 529-6833 Website: www.mhconn.org Product or Service: Mental Health Services, Education and Advocacy Top Executive: Luis B. Pérez, President and CEO No. of Employees: 200-plus Year Founded: 1908 Nonprofit nurtures wellness M ental Health Connecticut and its more than 200 employees partner with individuals, families and communities to create environments that support long-term health and wellness. The nonprofit, which serves more than 1,000 individuals daily, focuses on service, education and advocacy. From residential, employment and education services to general wellness initiatives, business coaching and advocacy, MHC has a more than 100-year relationship with the state of Connecticut. The nonprofit's employees are deeply committed to enhancing mental health services and support systems by working closely with state agencies, policymakers and community leaders. "MHC strives to meet people wherever they are on their personal mental health journey and recognize their individuality, experiences and unique cultures," said Jackie Davis, Director of Workplace Mental Health & DEI, and a certified Mental Health First Aid (MHFA) instructor. "We are working diligently to ensure more inclusive practices that strengthen our effectiveness and aid in supporting those who seek our services." In support of its commitment to battling the stigmas and discrimination often associated with a mental health condition, MHC practices cultural humility, antiracism and allyship internally and with its community partners. At its core is a dedication to collaborating for a more just, welcoming and safe community. To that end, MHC launched the MHC Collaborative, an annual membership-based program open to organizations and indivduals seeking to improve their work environment. It includes customized supports to create and foster a culture of workplace mental health. Members of the Collaborative receive monthly coaching sessions to set goals, track progress and work as a team, as well as training and interactive workshops that focus on stress management; diversity, equity and inclusion; effective communication; and mitigating burnout, among other topics. Mental Health First Aid, one of many workshops offered through the Collaborative, is an innovative new skills-based learning opportunity led by Davis. Via a five-step action plan, the program offers tools to identify, understand and respond to someone who might be struggling with a mental health or substance use challenge and then connect them with appropriate support and resources. MHC's training team with a combined 60+ years' experience deploys evidence-based, certified and custom created trainings to support its internal teams, as well as other workplace environments and community groups through unique trainings, presentations and workshops. MHC has converted several training curriculums and best practices used in the mental health arena for use in any workplace environment. Workshops range from 60 minutes to a full-day training. Virtual, in-person and blended options are available, and content is tailored to meet the needs of the attendees. Visit their website to see a full catalogue of Community Education Offerings. With the realization that the mental health industry is constantly evolving, MHC remains committed to expanding its reach and impact. "Our longer-term goals include enhancing ac- cess to mental health services, reducing stigma and promoting mental wellness across diverse communities," said Luis B. Pérez, President & CEO. "We will continue to enhance our cur- rent program portfolio and develop and align services that address the gaps in care for adults with mental health conditions in Connecticut. We also have goals of strengthening our sys- tems to sustain and expand our efforts. We aim to foster collaboration with stakeholders at all levels to create systemic changes that support mental health and well-being for all Connecticut residents."