(Griswold, Iowa) – Cass County Extension Director Kate Olson reports that “In Cass County, mental health was identified as the top health concern in the 2021 Community Health Assessment. This summer, a group of local organizations and individuals began meeting to work towards improving mental health and wellness support across the county. This fall a new coalition was formed to help address these vital needs. The mission of the Cass County Coalition for Mental Wellness is ‘To build resilience, reduce stigma, and promote mental wellbeing in the community.”

Olsen says the coalition is committed to working collaboratively with community members, service providers, health officials, business owners, and more to:

• Identify gaps in mental health services in Cass County.
• Improve accessibility to mental health services.
• Reduce stigma by normalizing conversations about mental wellness.
• Strengthen support for those dealing with mental health issues and their families.
• Promote mental well-being and resilience.

The coalition meets monthly at the Griswold Community Building (601 2nd St, Griswold, IA 51535). Meetings are held on the 3^rd Thursday each month from 10:30-11:30am. All individuals, organizations and businesses are encouraged to join these open meetings.

Questions regarding this coalition should be directed to Michelle Hartfield ccc4mw@gmail.com or Gina Moulas Gina.Moulas@va.gov.