Who We Are

Mental Health Association of Greater Chicago, better known as MHAGC, is a 501(c)3 independent not-for-profit, volunteer organization. And we are dedicated to helping people live healthier lives with effective mental health education.

Since 1957, we have worked to break the stigma associated with mental illnesses and empower our communities to seek the necessary support to prevent and overcome mental disorders.

We have made this our mission for over six decades and we’ve achieved this by bringing mental health education to schools, homes, and the communities.

Each year, we partner with thousands of young people, teachers, parents, and employers to make mental health a priority through awareness and empowerment.

Our tested, research-based education programs and resources serve to equip you with the right knowledge, skills, and tools to tackle mental health issues for effective identification, prevention, and support.

Vision

To significantly reduce the stigma and prejudice associated with mental illness by being the leading national resource provider, promoting brain health and developing strategies towards individual mental wellness.

Mission

To maximize the mental and emotional wellness of the youth, adults, and families of our communities by promoting prevention and increasing empowerment through our education, collaboration, and support programs.

Our Values

We are guided by a strong value system that governs our activities and keeps us aligned with our core Mission.
Recognize that the chief function of MHAGC at all times is to serve the best interests of our constituency.
Accept as a duty the responsibility to keep up to date on emerging issues and to conduct ourselves with professional competence, fairness, impartiality, efficiency, and effectiveness.
Respect the structure and responsibilities of the board of directors, provide them with facts and advice as a basis for their making policy decisions, and uphold and implement policies adopted by them.
Keep the community informed about issues that affect it.
Conduct our organizational and operational duties with positive leadership exemplified by open communication, creativity, dedication, and compassion.
Exercise whatever discretionary authority we have under the law to carry out the mission of the organization.
Serve with respect, concern, courtesy, and responsiveness in carrying out the organization's mission.
Demonstrate the highest standards of personal integrity, truthfulness, honesty, and fortitude in all our activities in order to inspire confidence and trust in our activities.
Avoid any interest or activity that is in conflict with the conduct of our official duties.
Respect and protect privileged information to which we have access in the course of our official duties.
Strive for personal and professional excellence and encourage the professional development of others.