nebhands Community Guide - Index

 

This guide is the culmination of experience gained in the nebhands project - a faith and community-based initiative to improve access to mental health, substance abuse and addiction services in Nebraska. Nebhands was funded by the United States Department of Health & Human Services' Capital Compassion Fund, with the goal of strengthening the infrastructure
of community and faith-based organizations interested in providing services in the areas of
mental health, substance abuse and addictions.

The information in this guide provides a framework for communities, faith groups, and community based organizations interested in developing or enhancing services for children, transition age youth, adults and elders who are experiencing or recovering from mental health problems, substance abuse or addictions. The guide is organized with this framework in mind. It is helpful to envision these services as a pyramid with three levels.




Place your mouse on a level of the pyramid for more information.



Supportive Services
Informational Services

This guide provides resources and tools to assist communities and organizations determine the best way to help. Here is how to begin:

1. Assess the behavioral health needs and assets of your community

Before deciding upon an area of service for your organization or community, it may be helpful to assess the needs and assets of the community you intend to serve. This is important even if you think you already have a good idea of the gaps in services for your area. There are a number of resources related to community needs assessment to help your organization carry out this step.

2. Determine the service area that will meet the need

Once you have determined the assets and needs of your community, you can begin to explore the types of services your organization or group can offer to make a positive difference in the lives of people affected by mental health problems, substance abuse or addictions. Each of the three broad areas of service are represented across the top of the page. Introductory information about the area of service is on the first page of each service area .

3. Gather information and resources to ready the organization and its members to effectively deliver the service.

A drop down menu guides you to information and resources specific to the phase of service development you are interested in - planning the service, delivering the service or evaluating the service.

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