The Child Welfare League of America recently honored Contra Costa Health (CCH) with the Dr. Alexander Gralnick Award for its First Hope program.
The national recognition lauds the program’s leadership in early psychosis intervention for youth and young adults. A board of mental health experts selected First Hope based on its family-centered methods and its potential to serve as a model for similar services throughout the U.S., according to CCH.
First Hope launched in 2012 as an outpatient service and later expanded to become a central location where young people experiencing early symptoms or a recent psychotic episode can receive coordinated services. A multidisciplinary team offers medical treatment and family support alongside specialized assistance for school or employment. By intervening early, the program aims to help participants remain active in their communities and stay on track with their education.
“First Hope is built on a simple but powerful idea,” said Dr. Grant Colfax, CEO of CCH. “When we respond early, surround young people with the right support, and include families in care, we can change the trajectory of their lives.”Â
The Child Welfare League of America is a coalition of hundreds of private and public agencies that has operated since 1920 to influence policies and best practices for children and families.
Learn more about First Hope or watch the award presentation.
