The Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation, and Substance Abuse Services (DMHRMSAS)recently received a large federal grant to improve services to people with co-occurring disorders, i.e. - substance use disorders and mental health problems.

This is a large project, named COSIG, that is being rolled out on a state-wide basis at the Community Service Boards (CSBs) and the state mental health institutes.

Some of the goals are: 1) improved identification of people with co-occurring disorders;

2) training for clinicians;

3) the development of new services, such as peer-run groups;

4) and streamlined service delivery for the individuals with or affected by co-occurring disorders, including adults, adolescents and families with children.

DMHMRSAS is currently developing a State Steering Committee to provide input on the project's activities, and feel it is essential that consumers and consumer advocates be represented on the Committee. The next State Steering Committee meeting is scheduled for July 27, 2006 at 1:00, in Richmond at DMHMRSAS. The address is 1220 Bank St. If you are unable to attend in person, you can participate on the phone via conference call. Also, DMHRMSAS will reimburse for mileage. At this meeting, DMHMRSAS will provide an overview of the project and would like ideas on how consumers can be involved

Our perspective is imperative to moving this project forward and making it a success! If you are interested in participating, please contact me via email or at the Network office toll-free number 877-862-5638 for more information. DMHMRSAS is looking to have 3-5 consumer advocates involved. Experience in the CSB system would be especially helpful.

Regards,

Byron Stith

VOCAL Network

Outreach Manager