Ongoing Initiatives
The KLINK Collaborative is working to increase both the depth and breadth of the impact this work is having in the community. To this end, KLINK has supported several new projects that serve western Klickitat and eastern Skamania counties. Below is a brief description of each program.
Community Wellbeing
KLINK applied for and secured $230,000 from Cambia Health System to support efforts to improve mental and behavioral health in the region in the next two years. The funds will help increase the amount of Mental Health First Aid workshops/trainings in the region and reducing stigma around mental/behavioral health. For more information contact Paul Lindberg, plindberg65@gmail.com
Community Prevention & Wellness Initiative (CPWI)
CPWI is a state-funded program designed to support efforts to address substance use issues in students and youth. In White Salmon, the project is a partnership between WAGAP, White Salmon Valley School District, KLINK, ESD 112, and other community partners.
As part of the 2021 Cohort, the project includes funding for a full-time Student Support Services position at WSVSD, a full-time Project Coordinator and the development of a cross-sector community coalition intended to identify specific needs and tactics to address those needs.
For more info email Kristen McReath kristen@wagap.org
Behavioral Health - A new approach
KLINK partners Bingen/White Salmon Police Dept and Skyline Health are collaborating on a new way to address community health needs differently. This project is pairing a Behavioral Health Specialist with the Police Dept staff to provide three supports:
~ ride-alongs for 'on the scene' supports for community members
~ follow-up visits to people police come into contact with;
~ one-one counseling when appropriate.
This collaboration secured $65,000 from Beacon Health to operate the project through 2022.