The Mental Health Task Force of Polk County works to improve mental health across our community through education, collaboration, and innovative programming.
The Task Force began in 2008 as a grassroots coalition of local residents, service providers, and community leaders who came together to discuss mental health needs in Polk County, Wisconsin. Through these conversations, several challenges quickly became clear. Stigma and lack of awareness often prevented people from seeking help, while service providers faced barriers related to coordination, availability, and access to care.
What began as a series of community conversations soon became a shared commitment to strengthen mental health support across the county. Participants recognized that meaningful progress would require ongoing collaboration and sustained local leadership. In October 2011, the Task Force became an official nonprofit organization and was granted 501(c)(3) status.
Since then, the Task Force has grown into an important part of Polk County’s mental health network. Working alongside schools, healthcare providers, nonprofits, local government, and community members, the Task Force helps identify emerging needs and develop innovative solutions that expand access to mental health support.
The mission of the Mental Health Task Force is to improve mental health in our community through education and innovative programming.
The Mental Health Task Force of Polk County is an independent nonprofit organization dedicated to improving mental health and wellbeing across our community. We bring together mental health and substance use providers, healthcare systems, schools, nonprofits, faith communities, public safety agencies, local government, and community members to work collaboratively to address local mental health needs.
The Task Force brings together partners from across Polk County to focus on three key areas that strengthen mental health and wellbeing in our community.
Increasing Mental Health Literacy
Helping community members better understand mental health, recognize signs of distress, and know how to support themselves and others.
Improving Access to Mental Health Services
Working with partners to identify gaps, strengthen coordination, and connect people to the mental health resources and services they need.
Preventing Suicide
Promoting awareness, providing suicide prevention training, and strengthening community support systems to reduce suicide and support healing after loss.
