10039903_MCM_OCT2021

Wellness

Genesee Health System HELPING THE COMMUNITY TO A HEALTHY FUTURE BY PETER HINTERMAN PHOTOGRAPHY BY AUTUMN RUMMEL-SCHULTZ

In 1963, in response to a growing acceptance and understanding of those struggling with mental health, then President Kennedy signed into law the Community Mental Health Act, greatly changing the delivery of mental health services in cities throughout the United States. Getting away from an institution style of service delivery, the act pushed for mental illness to be treated as community based, behavioral healthcare. This led to the establishment of comprehensive community mental health centers throughout the country, including Genesee County. “Genesee Health System was established as a result of the Community Mental Health Act,” explains GHS CEO, Danis Russell. “We are the community’s mental health center and service provider for individuals struggling with mental illness, severe intellectual and developmental

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