Madison County Mental Health Board

01/16/2026

Whole-person care saves lives. Effective treatment of substance use disorders can include medications, counseling & recovery supports. Integrated health services can help patients connect with substance use treatment. Visit FindTreatment.gov today.

01/15/2026

There are multiple pathways to recovery: clinical care, community support, therapy, faith, self-management. What matters most is finding what works for you. This , find your path! https://www.madisoncountyil.gov/departments/mental_health/resource_directories.php

01/15/2026

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Many of the affected grant programs had bipartisan support and President Donald Trump has supported them in the past.

01/15/2026

Just a reminder, our January board meeting originally scheduled for today, Thurs. Jan. 15 @ 5pm, has been rescheduled to Thurs. Jan. 22 @ 5pm instead!

01/14/2026

Different treatment options exist for substance use disorders – there is no one-size-fits-all solution. Clinical addiction care offers a range of treatments to meet you where you are. Find treatment that works for you: findtreatment.gov .gov

01/14/2026

Sacred Spaces of CARE's RISE Program, in partnership with the Alton Police Department, is funded by the Illinois Criminal Justice Information Authority through June of 2026, and focuses on co-occurring disorders of those who are justice involved.

The program is for Alton residents who meet at least one of the following:
- recurring arrests or pending charges with the Alton Police Department
- active Madison County or City of Alton court case
- currently or formally incarcerated (State or Federal)
- currently on parole, probation, court supervision, or detention

It is our hope that through this program, we are able to meet those with mental health and/or substance use disorders exactly where they are at, providing layered support and linkage to appropriate care to reduce recidivism and promote a pathway toward healing and recovery.

Please contact Sacred Spaces at 618-463-3505 ext. 662 for more information or to inquire about receiving services.

01/07/2026

If making changes to your substance use is part of your goals, please know that you’re not alone and help is available. Take the first step: Connect with resources or reach out for support. Visit findtreatment.gov

01/07/2026

Join us in welcoming our new Executive Director, Amber Donnelly, Ed.S.! Amber officially joined us on Mon. Jan. 5.

Amber serves as a dedicated leader and advocate for the Madison County Mental Health Board, bringing an extensive background in trauma-informed leadership, program development, and child and family welfare. With a career-long focus on systemic improvement, Amber is committed to ensuring that the residents of Madison County have access to compassionate, evidence-based mental health support.

Strategic Leadership & Program Development
As an Executive Director with an Education Specialist degree, Amber specializes in the intersection of educational psychology and social services. She has been a driving force in the development of child abuse and neglect prevention programs, specifically within the context of high-impact home visiting initiatives.

Amber’s work is characterized by deep collaboration and inclusivity, including:
• Disability Advocacy: Partnering with St. Louis Arc's Children's Service advisory council and Capable Kids and Families to enhance services for individuals with cognitive and developmental disabilities.
• Family Transitions: Providing expert guidance and support within the foster and adoptive care systems.
• Trauma-Informed Frameworks: Leading agencies toward practices that prioritize safety, empowerment, and healing for vulnerable populations.

Personal Connection & Community Roots
Amber’s passion for high-quality early childhood environments is rooted in her own history as part of a military family. Growing up with a father stationed at Scott Air Force Base, she spent significant time working within their high-quality childcare programs. This experience provided her with a unique lens into the resilience of military families and the critical importance of stable, supportive environments during a child's foundational years.

Through her role on the Board, Amber continues to champion a holistic, community-wide approach to mental health that bridges the gap between clinical services and the lived experiences of Madison County families.

01/02/2026

This January, SAMHSA observes Substance Use Disorder . We will highlight resources to help people throughout the U.S. find their path to treatment and recovery. Check out our toolkit: www.samhsa.gov/treatment

01/02/2026

Join us in wishing Deborah well today, her last day as our Executive Director of the Mental Health Board!

During her tenure, she strengthened programs, built meaningful partnerships, and elevated our mission. Her vision and steady guidance fortified our Board and positioned it for continued success. Through her work, countless lives have been touched, families supported, and a stronger, more responsive mental health system has taken shape.

Debbie leaves behind a legacy of dedication and progress. We wish her a joyful and fulfilling retirement—enjoy your travels, family time, and all the adventures ahead!

Thank you, Debbie! Your contributions will never be forgotten. 💙

01/02/2026

01/01/2026

As we welcome 2026, we look forward with hope, gratitude, and commitment to building a stronger, healthier community. Mental wellness is essential for all of us, and together we can continue to break down barriers, support families, and create opportunities for healing and growth.

This year, let’s prioritize connection, compassion, and resilience—for ourselves and for those around us. Thank you to our partners, providers, and community members for your dedication and support. Your efforts make a difference every single day.

Here’s to a year of progress, partnership, and possibility. Wishing you peace, health, and happiness in 2026!