Chartiers Center

Overview

Chartiers Center is a private, nonprofit corporation dedicated to providing a range of services focused on behavioral health, substance use treatment, and support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Located in the United States, the organization operates primarily in the Pennsylvania area, serving communities across multiple counties, including Allegheny and Washington.

History

The roots of Chartiers Center trace back to the Mental Health/Mental Retardation Act of 1966 in Pennsylvania, which aimed to ensure that individuals with mental disabilities receive necessary treatment where and when needed. This legislation led to the establishment of catchment areas statewide, each headed by a Base Service Unit (BSU). Chartiers Center was one of the early community corporations set up to provide mental health and mental retardation services in its designated area.

In 1968, a community meeting endorsed the plan for a local mental health center, and by May 1969, Chartiers Mental Health and Mental Retardation Center held its first official meeting, electing a permanent Board of Directors. The center began offering services in September 1970, initially operating from leased space in the Bridgeville Professional Building. Over the years, the organization expanded its services and facilities, achieving accreditation as a psychiatric facility in 1978.

Services

Chartiers Center provides a comprehensive array of services tailored to meet the needs of individuals facing behavioral health challenges, co-occurring disorders, or IDD. The services include:

• Behavioral Health Services: Intake and referrals, outpatient therapy, psychiatric assessments, service coordination, and crisis intervention.
• Substance Use Treatment: Offers individual counseling, family counseling, intensive outpatient programming, and medication management for those experiencing substance use disorders.
• Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities Services: Programs designed for adults with IDD, focusing on individualized plans to enhance independence and participation in community activities.
• Homeless Services: Assists individuals with behavioral health or substance abuse diagnoses in accessing housing, benefits, transportation, and other essential services.
• Integrated Care: Emphasizes a person-centered approach, integrating physical health and mental wellness to enhance overall quality of life.

Mission and Values

Chartiers Center is committed to providing compassionate support and fostering a recovery-oriented environment. The organization's vision is to be a center of excellence in delivering innovative IDD and behavioral health services. Core values include commitment, compassion, creativity, excellence, ethics, accountability, and adaptability, guiding all operations and decisions.

Funding and Operations

The organization is funded through a combination of state and county allocations, third-party insurance reimbursements, and private donations. Contributions and service revenues constitute significant portions of its overall financial structure.

Recent Developments

In recent years, Chartiers Center has expanded its service area, notably beginning operations in Washington County as of June 2023. Additionally, it has launched new programs such as The Forward Together Project, aimed at enhancing services for individuals with IDD.

Overall, Chartiers Center plays a vital role in addressing mental health, substance abuse, and IDD challenges within its service area, offering comprehensive support and care through its diverse range of programs.