By: @Colleen Haley
December 10, CSDA hosted its fifth virtual special districts tour for key legislative staffers at the state and federal level. This year’s tour, Special Districts Impacting Mental Health in Their Communities, featured the innovative Recreation Rx program at the Hayward Area Recreation and Park District and the Firefighters First Response Program at the San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District.
During the live discussion, district leaders provided insight to how they are leading the way in addressing mental health by breaking new ground and addressing statewide challenges at the local level. The virtual tour also featured short videos produced by CSDA to demonstrate the special districts leading the way.
Visit Special Districts Impacting Mental Health: 2024 Virtual Tour - California Special Districts Association to download a tour packet, presentation slide decks, and share the informative videos with your peers:
San Ramon Valley Fire Protection District showed attendees how their Behavioral Health Response Program has transformed the way behavioral health crises are managed. From the intake call through transport to a mental health facility, the Behavioral Health Response Program is designed to provide the right care at the right time. The result is improved 911 caller experience, patient outcomes, and system-wide efficiency.
The Hayward Area Recreation and Park District focused on their Health Equity Initiative. As designed, the program provides accessible health and wellness opportunities to all areas of the district, advancing Justice, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. Additionally, the Rec Rx program prescribes free recreation "prescriptions" to at-risk community members through a partnership with Tiburcio Vasquez Health Center. Furthermore, the district’s Sweat HARD and Play HARD series offers free fitness and sports programs in underserved areas.
CSDA appreciates the state and federal officials who took the time to engage with special districts impacting mental health in their communities. Now anyone can check out the recorded tour and tools at Special Districts Impacting Mental Health: 2024 Virtual Tour - California Special Districts Association to learn more about these inspiring special districts making a difference in their communities.
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