The City of Medford’s Office of Prevention & Outreach (OPO) aimed to improve behavioral health services for communities of color and immigrant populations, particularly those facing challenges with behavioral health and substance use disorders. ACBC Consulting was tasked with leading data coordination and stakeholder engagement for the Culturally Competent Connections to Care initiative, funded by MelroseWakefield Hospital.

ACBC trained community liaisons to facilitate listening sessions with low-income and immigrant families, gathering firsthand insights into their behavioral health needs and barriers to care. The initiative also involved conducting interviews with faith-based leaders, with ACBC developing a facilitation guide to ensure the conversations were culturally relevant and productive.

ACBC used the insights gained from these engagements to help the OPO co-develop a culturally competent behavioral health awareness campaign. The campaign was designed to address the specific needs and concerns of diverse cultural-linguistic groups, encouraging community members to seek care and reducing stigma around mental health.

ACBC facilitated the formation of key partnerships with faith-based organizations to support mental health first aid training and broader efforts to destigmatize behavioral health care. This collaboration was integral in fostering a more inclusive and supportive environment for individuals seeking help.

Through collaborative community engagement and culturally relevant strategies, ACBC Consulting helped OPO improve access to behavioral health services for diverse populations in Medford. The initiative not only fostered stronger partnerships with community and faith-based organizations but also contributed to reducing stigma and building more inclusive care pathways for underserved communities.