Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services

Community-Based Initiatives (CBI) is part of the Community Affairs Unit in the City of Philadelphia Department of Behavioral Health and Intellectual disAbility Services (DBHIDS).

The team works to address behavioral health inequities, engage targeted demographic groups, and amplify the need for behavioral health resources that respect different cultures, backgrounds, and experiences.

CBI includes:

• Engaging Males of Color
• Engaging Women and Girls of Color
• LGBTQIA+ Initiative
• Faith and Spiritual Affairs

The CBI team fosters community collaboration, builds strategic partnerships, and advances community-driven programming to reduce stigma, spread awareness, and increase access to behavioral health resources throughout Philadelphia

DBHIDS provides behavioral health care, intellectual disability supports, and early intervention services through one connected system. Its mission is to educate, strengthen, and serve individuals and communities so that all Philadelphians can thrive. DBHIDS envisions a city where every person can achieve health, well-being, and self-determination.

The team’s work is guided by the DBHIDS CARE Framework: Connection, Access, Resilience, and Equity. CARE helps staff work together, build trust with the community, and make fair decisions. It also helps DBHIDS create a system where everyone has the opportunity to get the support they need and thrive.