Dear Friends, Supporters, and Community Members, 

As we reflect on 2023, I am filled with pride and gratitude for the significant strides made at Ecker Center. Our journey toward becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Care Clinic (CCBHC), a milestone achieved through a competitive SAMSHA grant, symbolizes our unwavering commitment to ensuring comprehensive care for everyone and eliminating financial barriers to access. 

This transformative initiative has led to remarkable achievements, including the near elimination of wait lists and the introduction of same-day access for those in need. The establishment of a toll-free Crisis Support Line has further solidified our capability to offer immediate assistance, aligning our crisis intervention services with the highest national standards. 

Amidst these advancements, our collaborations have flourished. We have established 15 new care coordination agreements that have significantly enhanced our service integration and reach. Our selection for the IL CCBHC Demonstration for 2024 positions us a s a leader in behavioral health innovation within Illinois, a testament to our team's dedication and expertise. 

Our efforts to expand insurance coverage, including partnerships with Cigna, Aetna, and Humana, alongside our continued involvement in Kane County's Specialty Courts and Judicial Programs, have broadened access to our services, reflecting our commitment to serving diverse populations. Specifically, our enhanced programs for youth and families have made a profound impact, fostering resilience, wellness, and empowerment among 1,796 young individuals. 

The expansion of our physical footprint, with new locations and the introduction of cutting-edge programs, coupled with our strategic technological advancements, has significantly increased our capacity to deliver exceptional care. As we forge ahead, the support from our community remains a cornerstone of our success, inspiring us to push boundaries and innovate further in our mission to serve. 

I extend my deepest thanks to each of you for being part of this transformative journey. Together, we are not only changing lives but also shaping the very future of behavioral health care. Your continued partnership and support fuel our resolve to make a lasting difference in the lives of many. 

Warm regards, 

Dr. Daphne Sandouka
CEO, Ecker Center for Behavioral Health