For individuals in need of programs provided though LSSI’s Behavioral Health Services, outreach and education are key.

Community events and health fairs can be the first point of contact for LSSI’s clients. “Health fairs, a flyer at a library, or networking with other community organizations all help direct clients to LSSI programs,” said Tanya Fisher, LSSI Outreach & Education Coordinator. Such events are often a first point of contact for someone needing services.

“Outreach brings people together and finds strategies to address the whole person. It also helps LSSI improve programing,” Fisher added.

In 2022, LSSI was one of many Chicago organizations benefitting from Healthy Chicago Equity Zones grants. The Healthy Chicago plan calls on the city and a variety of human service providers to support community organizations as they take the lead on strategies that address the root causes of health inequities, including structural racism.

Through outreach efforts on its own and in collaboration with other organizations and initiatives like the Chicago Equity Zones, Fisher has seen people referred to needed services they might not otherwise know how to access. “It makes me feel good to know that there is that level of care in our community,” she said.