How does Building Compassionate Communities work?

BCC works with non-profits, school districts, healthcare systems and other community partners to focus on improving the lives of children and families. Through telehealth, at-home, office or in-school visits, BCC counselors help families with:

• Mental health screenings
• Mental health services for youth and families members
• Juvenile justice system navigation
• Special education and individualized education plan (IEP) help
• Reducing stereotypes and stigma related to mental health
• Preventative care
• Access to care
• Immediate and long-term needs for families of children impacted by mental health
• Peer provided services
• Support groups
• Parent education groups

Why should I use Building Compassionate Communities?

When a family isn’t functioning well for whatever reason, children are deeply affected. Some families have broken pieces that Centerstone wishes to help put back together. Together we can find what’s missing and make your family feel whole again.

Additionally, Southern Illinois has seen a rise in poverty over time. This comes with challenges to accessing nutrition, mental health help and basic self-care. As poverty increases, the quality of these items decreases. We’re working with community partners to increase the quality of life for children and families in these communities, which will in turn improve this part of the state.

Where is Building Compassionate Communities offered?

BCC is available in Southern Illinois for families living in Franklin, Jackson, Perry and Williamson counties.

What does Building Compassionate Communities cost?

We at Centerstone don’t want the idea of a cost holding you back from reaching out for help. Payment assistance is available to help those unable to pay for all or some of the cost of service. We can help people who are unable to pay for care themselves through private donations and partnerships with our community partners. Please ask about payment assistance if you have questions.

How do I get started?

There are multiple ways to get started with BCC:

• Families can take the initiative and call 1-877-HOPE123 (877-467-3123). When you call, make sure you know what school district your student is in attendance and your insurance information. You don’t have to know exactly what kind of help you need to receive it – once you’re connected, our staff will guide you through the process.
• Schools can recommend families. Every partner school has a referral process through which they can refer a family directly to a counselor. From here, a program coordinator will help the family and begin services.
• Outside agencies, such as hospitals, can get a family connected to BCC. The process is similar to that for families: the agency will call 1-877-HOPE123 and begin the initial screening there.

How can I get more information?

For more information, fill out the contact form at the top of the page or contact us today at 1-877-HOPE123.