In 2016, community members from North Lawndale, East and West Garfield Park, and the Near West Side came together to create an Expanded Mental Health Services Program (EMHSP). During the summer of that year, the CAT team and community members collected 10,200 signatures from voters to place the question on the ballot.

​The Expanded West Side Center received overwhelming support from the community: over 60 endorsements from local institutions and the support of 86.5% of the voters.  Going door to door and talking to the community about the initiative was indeed hard work, but the real work began when it was approved on the ballot.

The Governing Commission provided oversight for the initiative and consisted of community residents, consumers and clinicians.  The governor appointed 5 Commissioners, the Mayor appointed 4 for a total of 9.  One of the primary responsibilities of the Governing Board is to oversee funds and choose a provider. 

The Governing Board for the Expanded West Side Center consist of 9 appointees we have a full Board. Of the 9 appointees 7 are female and 2 are male.  Members of the Board are all West side residents and have diverse backgrounds; they are consumers, clinicians, an attorney, an Executive from the EPA, a Social worker, an entrepreneur, a Veteran, and a Pastor/Priest….the Board brings a diverse background and expertise to the initiative.