Rocky Mountain Human Services Awarded Contract to Transition People to the Community
Momentum Program Is Part of $4.3 Million Contract with Colorado Department of Human Services Office of Behavioral Health
On July 1, Rocky Mountain Human Services (RMHS), a Denver-based nonprofit organization, will launch the Momentum program, a statewide endeavor that assists children and adults throughout Colorado to transition from inpatient mental health facilities and acute hospitals to community living. The Momentum program is an evolution of a hospital transition program that began in 2012 and is funded through an annual $4.3 million contract with the Colorado Department of Human Services.
Through Momentum, teams of case managers and mental health professionals partner with mental health institutions and other organizations to support people. Clinical social workers and “peer-bridger” specialists identify and facilitate supportive services so individuals can successfully thrive in the community. Peer-bridgers are highly trained professionals who provide a unique support because of their own personal experience with mental health conditions and recovery.
“We are excited to be able to extend the RMHS mission into this area to support hundreds of children and adults to improve their lives and be part of Colorado’s vibrant communities,” said Shari Repinski, RMHS executive director. “Everyone benefits when more people can take active roles in the world around them.”
RMHS was founded in 1992 to provide services to children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Denver. Over the years, the organization has grown and expanded its work to provide other services to children and adults with developmental disabilities, as well as case management for military veterans. Programs include early intervention and clinical services for infants, children and their families; supportive living and therapeutic services for adults; and homelessness prevention and housing assistance for veterans. RMHS has more than 200 employees in Denver, Colorado Springs and Pueblo who serve more than 6,000 people a year.
The Momentum program builds upon RMHS’ strengths in case management and behavioral health services. RMHS currently works with adults to transition from regional centers and nursing facilities into home- and community-based settings. RMHS also works with both children and adults with behavioral health challenges and co-occurring conditions to support them in reaching their goals in their home communities.
Like other RMHS programs, Momentum case managers will work with clients where they are – in hospitals, homes or the community – to put together transition plans, build support systems, and identify funding sources and community resources that are supportive in community settings. Staff will be based in Denver, Pueblo and throughout the Western Slope, including Grand Junction, Montrose and Durango.
For more information about the RMHS Momentum program, visit www.rmhumanservices.org/momentum-adults or www.rmhumanservices.org/momentum-children.
