Overview:
The Napolitano Legacy Initiative for Mental Health Equity (formerly known as the Mental Health Consortium) is a collaborative effort dedicated to advancing equitable mental health policy, systems change, and community-centered solutions. Rooted in the legacy of former Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, the Initiative brings together leaders from education, healthcare, government, and community organizations to address mental health disparities and strengthen access to care.
Newly housed at the University of La Verne, the Initiative serves as a collaborative platform for dialogue and action that advances sustainable, inclusive mental health systems through partnership and engagement.
Mission and Purpose:
Mission Statement- To advance mental health equity through policy leadership, education, and community partnerships that improve access, quality, and outcomes for community members in the San Gabriel Valley.
Purpose- This initiative honors former Congresswoman Grace Napolitano, whose leadership and advocacy helped secure the federal funding that supported the creation of the University of La Verne’s Institute of Mental Health and Psychological Well-Being. The Initiative builds on this legacy by advancing mental health equity through policy collaboration, education, and community engagement.
Goals:
- Improve mental health outcomes in the San Gabriel Valley by expanding access to coordinated culturally responsive mental health services across the region.
- Strengthen mental health systems and reduce gaps in access and quality of care by convening community members, leaders, and advocates in informed dialogue and shared action.
- Foster cross-sector partnerships and community engagement by uniting academic institutions, public agencies, nonprofit organizations, and community leaders to co-develop equitable mental health solutions.
- Honor and extend Congresswoman Napolitano’s legacy of advocacy by advancing her commitment to mental health equity, collaboration, and public service through sustained institutional leadership.