8.
Executive Director
KCHD Updates
A.
Kane County Health Department (KCHD) Exec. Dir. Isaacson stated that funding
and policy changes continue to be monitored. He will provide more information
and updates at next month's meeting. He announced that last week staff was
relocated to the new health facility in Elgin. Renovations at the facility are not
completed but are ongoing. He announced that the December Public Health
meeting will potentially be held at the Elgin facility. Isaacson stated that negative
psychological impacts on residents regarding immigration raides continue to
increase.
Behavioral Health Update
B.
Kane County Health Department (KCHD) Community Health Dir. Peterson
provided an update on the Self-Help Behavioral Health 360 Program. She
reminded the Committee that Behavioral Health 360 is a free and confidential
website to help individuals manage their wellbeing with behavioral health topics,
self-assessments, evidence-based guidelines and tools, wellness tips and
articles, and Kane County resources. She noted that the most visited topics in
Kane County are anxiety, depression, and suicide and prevention. Since the
program launched in February 2025, the user engagement has increased with
community outreach and website demos. For those seeking more supportive
help, Peterson explained that individuals can contact the Information and
Referral Specialist, Toni Garcia. She stated that Garcia will connect residents to
community agencies, and provide guidance and support to navigate available
resources. Garcia conducts an assessment with residents when they contact
her, and will assist with accessing programs to improve quality of life. Peterson
highlighted the Mind Matters Monthly Training Series which is a series of virtual
trainings on trending topics in behavioral health. Everyone from community
health professionals, social workers, teachers, and caregivers, and anyone
interested are invited to join for expert-led discussions. Peterson stated that the
KCHD plans to expand trainings throughout 2026 and 2027, partnering with
community agencies to help reduce stigma, strengthen mental health
awareness, and increase access to support when individuals experience a
mental health crisis. Peterson addressed questions and comments from the
Committee. Much discussion ensued.