Crested Butte State of Mind

Overview Crested Butte State of Mind (CBSOM) is a nonprofit organization established in 2019, with the mission to reduce the high rate of suicide in Crested Butte and the Gunnison Valley, Colorado. It serves as a mental wellness connector, aiming to decrease stigma around mental health, increase support and education, and enhance access to mental health care services in the community.

Purpose and Objectives

CBSOM was founded on the belief that suicide is preventable and that everyone plays a role in prevention. The organization focuses on providing free counseling scholarships, connecting community members to resources, and promoting mental wellness through various programs.

Programs and Initiatives

• Therapy Scholarship Program: Offers financial assistance for therapy sessions to community members in need, aiming to make mental health care more accessible.
• Green Light Campaign: An annual initiative held during April, which involves the distribution of green lights to symbolize support and solidarity for mental health awareness. The campaign is complemented by free, alcohol-free community events like dance classes and movie nights.
• Community Events: CBSOM organizes monthly community support events, including those specifically for the Hispanic community, to foster connections and provide casual spaces for mental health support.

Impact and Achievements

By the end of 2023, CBSOM had partnered with 31 therapists and two telehealth organizations, offering 3,778 therapy sessions to 354 community members. In 2024, the organization awarded a record number of therapy scholarships, reflecting increased awareness and utilization of their services. CBSOM's efforts have contributed significantly to reducing stigma and increasing mental health support in the Gunnison Valley.

Organizational Structure

CBSOM operates as a medium-sized organization within the human services sector. It was initially established under fiscal sponsorship and has since become a recognized nonprofit entity, receiving grants and support for its mission. The organization emphasizes collaboration with other mental health providers to ensure coordinated efforts in addressing the community's needs.