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Diversity & Equity Council (DEC)

Boards and Commissions / Diversity & Equity Council (DEC)
The Diversity & Equity Council is a guiding body that works to embrace diversity, eliminate health disparities and advance equity across behavioral health services and county programs.

Description

The council supports, coordinates, informs and advocates in partnership with community organizations, clients, families and staff to integrate cultural competence, address systemic barriers and promote inclusive, equitable care. The initiative is supported by Behavioral Health & Recovery Services through its Office of Diversity & Equity.

Service Focus

Cultural responsiveness, equity, inclusion and eliminating disparities in mental health and substance use services, as well as broader county health programs.

Membership

  • The council includes representatives from county staff, clients, family members and community partners
  • Membership is intended to be inclusive and diverse, reflecting community perspectives on equity

Key Functions

  • Provides collaboration, guidance, advocacy and consultation to Behavioral Health & Recovery Services and community stakeholders in matters of equity and cultural competence
  • Serves as a forum for cultural competence questions from community-based organizations
  • Acts as a hub for equity-related information and resources
  • Supports and informs the network of Health Equity Initiatives

Contact

Frances Lobos (she/her), Co-chair
FLobos@smcgov.org

Nicoletta “Nica” Kelleher (she/her), Co-chair
NKelleher@smcgov.org