Human Support Services

10/01/2025

It’s a day many months in the making. Today, Wednesday, October 1, the human services landscape in Southern Illinois grows stronger.

“Caritas Family Solutions and Human Support Services are coming together as one organization, allowing us to expand access to care, deepen our impact, and continue walking alongside the most vulnerable in our communities,” announced Caritas Family Solutions CEO Gary Huelsmann.

“Thank you to the teams, partners, and supporters who helped make this possible. We are stronger together, for every life deserves love.”

09/29/2025

At Caritas Family Solutions, we’re not only focused on the needs of today, we’re planning for the future by positioning the agency for long-term stability, innovation, and growth.

“By merging HSS with Caritas, we’re taking a bold step forward to strengthen our financial sustainability, expand our reach, and build a powerful legacy for generations to come,” said Chief Administrative and Financial Officer Melinda Dall.

“Coupled with the recent launch of the Caritas Family Solutions Foundation, we’re positioning the agency for long-term stability, innovation, and growth. Together, these milestones mark the beginning of a brighter, stronger future for the communities we serve.”

09/26/2025

As Human Support Services joins Caritas Family Solutions, our combined mission grows stronger. And so does the need.

“Together, we’ll expand critical services across Southern Illinois, reaching more children, families, and adults with the care they deserve,” said Caritas’ Executive Director of Development, Ashlee Lambert. “But we can’t do it alone.

We need our community, your support, your voice, and your generosity to fuel this next chapter. Every donation, every shared post, every conversation helps us build awareness and deliver life-changing support.”

“Join us,” she urges. “Make a gift. Share our story. Be part of something bigger. Together, we can ensure that every life receives the love and support it deserves.”

09/24/2025

On October 1, HSS merges with Caritas Family Solutions, uniting two organizations with a shared commitment to quality and the unshakeable belief that every life deserves love.

“Commitment to quality is at the heart of everything we do—quality in services, outcomes, and the experience of those we serve,” said Caritas’ Chief Impact Officer Dee Restrepo.

“This merger allows us to strengthen that commitment by integrating technology and innovation across our programs. From data systems to digital tools, we’re investing in smarter ways to deliver care, track outcomes, and support our teams.

“By combining our strengths, we’re building a more connected, efficient, and impactful organization—driven by purpose and powered by progress,” she added.

09/23/2025

We’re thrilled to announce Walk-In Clinic Wednesdays, available from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., for anyone seeking psychiatric or therapeutic services. If you have any questions, feel free to call our office at 618-939-4444.

09/22/2025

New partnerships bring new strength. And that’s exactly what’s happening at Caritas Family Solutions.

On October 1, Caritas and HSS will join forces under the Caritas name.

“By coming together, we’re not just combining programs—we’re combining strengths,” said Hope Carbonaro, Chief Program Officer for Youth Services. “This merger allows us to scale what works, expand access to critical services, and bring new levels of support to the children, families, and individuals who rely on us.”

“As program leaders at Caritas and HSS, we’ve seen firsthand the heart, dedication, and expertise that drive our teams every day,” added Anne Riley, Chief Program Officer for Adult Services. “We value our people. Their passion and professionalism are the reasons we’re able to make this next step, and their commitment will continue to guide our work moving forward.”

09/18/2025

When two organizations decide to work together, it helps to have trusted experts guiding the process. As Caritas Family Solutions and HSS join forces, we’re grateful to have the generous financial support and mentorship of the SeaChange-Lodestar Fund for Nonprofit Collaboration and the YouthBridge Community Foundation helping to guide the transition.

09/17/2025

HSS is now offering QPR (Question, Persuade, Refer) training, a nationally recognized program that teaches individuals how to recognize the warning signs of a su***de crisis and how to take action to help. In less than an hour, participants will learn how to question someone about suicidal thoughts, persuade them to seek help, and refer them to appropriate resources. This training is free and available to all residents of Monroe County. If you are interested in participating, please contact Camella Ball at cball@hss1.org or 618-939-4444 ext. 1271.

09/15/2025

Two leaders in community service—Human Support Services and Caritas Family Solutions—are coming together to improve care for people in need throughout Southern Illinois and the Metro East.

“At the heart of this merger is a shared belief that every person deserves to be seen, supported, and given the opportunity to thrive. By coming together, we are creating something even stronger for the future. We are united by a deep commitment to love, dignity, and hope, and we are honored to take this next step together in service to our communities," said Sean Ketcherside, Board Chair of Caritas Family Solutions, and Mallory Rodenberg, Board Chair of HSS.

09/12/2025

Have you wanted to take Mental Health First Aid but can’t get time off during the week? HSS is offering a Health First Aid class on Saturday, September 20th, from 8:30 AM to 4:00 PM. This life-saving training will give you the tools to recognize the signs and symptoms of someone experiencing a mental health crisis, approach them with confidence, and connect them to the help they need. Not only will you gain essential skills to support someone going through mental health challenges, but you’ll also feel more comfortable intervening and offering help to friends, family, coworkers, or community members when it matters most.

09/10/2025

Words matter.

When we talk about substance use, the language we choose can either build stigma or break it down.

Using person-first language — like “a person with a substance use disorder” instead of “addict” — shows that someone has an illness, not that they are the illness.
It focuses on compassion and understanding, not blame.

Let’s change the conversation and create a community where recovery is possible for everyone.

09/09/2025