In the wake of World War II, service members returning home to Berks County found themselves struggling with their mental health, and the need for services soared. The Community Chest – now United Way of Berks County – stepped in to provide critical funding to organizations like The Guidance Institute, which saw its caseload double. This marked a pivotal shift in how the community approached mental health, laying the foundation for United Way’s ongoing commitment to the issue.
Today, United Way continues to make a lasting impact on mental health in Berks County. In 2023, mental health programs funded by United Way reached 41,200 individuals. Key community partners include:
- Family Guidance Center, which offers affordable, accessible counseling services and vital resources such as crisis intervention, mobile therapy, telepsychiatry, and school-based support for individuals of all ages.
- Greater Reading Mental Health Alliance, which serves as a primary advocacy resource, assisting individuals and families with navigating the mental health system, securing services, and advocating for their needs, including benefits and housing.
United Way Focused Grants, funded by a generous gift from MacKenzie Scott, have expanded the work of Berks Counseling Center and the LGBT Center of Greater Reading. Berks Counseling Center utilized grant funding to launch an Intensive Outpatient Program, providing family-centered health and wellness activities. The LGBT Center’s Mind Body Sensory Health Program offers free counseling services, along with wellness support, and targeted services for the LGBTQ+ community, including those with autism. Through these investments, United Way continues to ensure mental health services are accessible and comprehensive for people of all ages.
United Way’s work in mental health has evolved from early post-war support to a broad network of programs that ensure mental health services are accessible, inclusive, and effective for all Berks County residents. This ongoing commitment underscores United Way’s commitment to community health and well-being.
Spanish
English