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Naples, Fl – David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health (DLC), Collier County’s only comprehensive, not-for-profit behavioral health treatment center serving children, adults and families, has received a grant from the Community Foundation of Collier County (CFCC) to help address the increasing mental health and addiction crisis plaguing Collier residents – a problem that has been compounded amid the global COVID-19 pandemic, suicide crisis, and opioid epidemic. The $30,000 education and wellness grant will fund a communications campaign to bring awareness related to the warning signs of common behavioral health challenges and to local services that can help address these challenges.

Funds were provided from the CFCC’s $15.5 million “Your Passion. Your Collier.” campaign launched last year to address the challenges facing our community including mental health & substance abuse, housing & hunger, education & employment, seniors & veterans, environment & accessibility, as well as crisis & disaster relief.

Part of the CFCC’s solution to address the mental health challenges facing Collier County is to develop a community-wide awareness campaign through which they will partner with the county, local law enforcement, media outlets and area nonprofits to raise awareness of the needs, as well as gaps, in mental health and addiction supports.

This grant will be used to fund a communications campaign to address the lasting psychological impacts of the pandemic, including post-traumatic stress, anxiety, depression, and substance use. The goal is to educate the community about the importance of intervening early to avoid life-threatening crises such as suicidal thoughts and overdose.

The awareness campaign will utilize both traditional and digital advertising to reach a broad range of demographics. Campaign messaging will communicate that DLC is here for the behavioral health needs of the community, that it is easy to connect to care either in person or virtually, and that there is help and hope for anyone who needs it.  Messaging will also aim to decrease stigma so those who are struggling know they are not alone and are encouraged to reach out for care.

“We are very grateful for the continued support of the Community Foundation of Collier County to meet the growing mental health needs of our community,” said Scott Burgess, DLC President and CEO. “Together, we are encouraging those struggling with these widespread issues to seek support so they can effectively cope and thrive again while ensuring that all who reach out for care have immediate access to the help they need.”

This is the third communications grant CFCC has granted DLC, bringing their total investment to $90,000. As a result of the past communications and advertising efforts, DLC experienced a significant increase in website traffic, where people can learn more about DLC services and how to connect to care. Additionally, DLC saw an increase in the overall number of services provided to children, families, and adults, including a 200% increase in those seeking care through DLC’s Virtual Care Center.

“We are excited to partner with David Lawrence Centers once again on this critical community issue as part of our Your passion. Your Collier. campaign,” said Eileen Connolly-Keesler, Community Foundation President and CEO.  “Our community needs assessment showed many Collier County residents are unaware of the extent of the mental health problem locally. Our goal is to bring awareness to the community about the growing problem and lack of resources.”

About the Community Foundation of Collier County

The Community Foundation of Collier County, now in its 36th year, is a tax-exempt, public, charitable organization established in 1985 to increase and focus on local private philanthropy. Today, the Community Foundation of Collier County manages more than 850 funds, collaborates with hundreds of nonprofits, holds over $276.6 million in assets and has distributed over $229.5 million in grants to nonprofit organizations and community programs. The Community Foundation of Collier County is one of Florida’s fastest-growing community foundations. For good. Forever. Learn more at cfcollier.org or call 239-649-5000.

About David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health

Southwest Florida nonprofit David Lawrence Centers for Behavioral Health (DLC) is a national leader providing compassionate, advanced, and exceptional mental health, substance use, and integrated healthcare solutions, available for children, adolescents and adults. DLC’s innovative treatment includes inpatient, outpatient, residential, and community-based services – a comprehensive system of care funded by community and government support. Each year, DLC serves more than 9,000 people through over 290,000 treatment sessions. To learn more, please call 239-455-8500 or visit www.DavidLawrenceCenter.org.