Smiles filled the halls of Benton County Developmental Diversity the evening of Friday, Oct. 20. Clients, staff, and guests gathered for an open house at their new facility at the County’s Sunset Building at 4077 SW Research Way in Corvallis.
Developmental Diversity moved into their new office location this past February. Since 2015, it had been located at 2420 Professional Drive in Corvallis. The move has provided additional space for the program to better serve clients and bring staff closer to their peers in other County programs.
During Friday’s open house, attendees were invited to tour the office, visit with staff, learn about the programs, and take part in numerous fun activities. A meal featuring sandwiches and cake was provided.
“We’re excited to welcome folks in to share our new space, build community, and celebrate developmental diversity together,” said Developmental Diversity Division Manager Jasper Smith.
The open house coincided with National Disability Employment Month, celebrated every year in October to highlight the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.
The County’s Developmental Diversity Program provides support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities that meet state criteria for eligibility. The program serves as the point of access to services and support for people in Benton County, including employment connections and supports.
Benton County started as a pilot of the services coordination model in 1971 as the first county in Oregon along with Lincoln County. In 1973, the state legislature designated Oregon counties as the local authority for the coordination and delivery of services for people with developmental disabilities across the state. This initiated statewide developmental diversity services 50 years ago.
Inquire about the services provided at Benton County Developmental Diversity by visiting their website or calling 888-232-7192.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
Benton County recognized the importance of unity and diversity during 2023 Hispanic Heritage Month with a meaningful gathering and proclamation reading to honor Benton County employees and Latinx/Hispanic heritage on Oct. 3, at the Kalapuya Building in Corvallis. Benton County staff and local leaders from Casa Latinos Unidos came together to commemorate Hispanic America Heritage Month, September 15-October 15.
Rocío Muñoz, Interim Healthy Communities Division Manager for the Benton County Health Department, opened the ceremony with a heartfelt message, emphasizing the significance of recognizing and embracing the Hispanic community within Benton County.
“We are here today because we are proclaiming Hispanic Heritage Month in Benton County, and we wanted to make sure that our employees knew that we’re seeing them, that they’re part of this community,” Muñoz expressed.
Darling Hernández, a bilingual medical assistant with the Lincoln Health Clinic, echoed these sentiments. Hernandez highlighted the importance of acknowledging the Latino community’s contributions and instilling the same values in future generations. Ms. Hernandez added that it’s important to be recognized as a Latinx/Hispanic American community, and to show future generations how important it is to be a part of this community as well.
Cynthia De La Torre from the Benton County Health Department emphasized the significance of proclamations like these in recognizing and celebrating the community’s invaluable contributions.
“I think proclamations are important, because they recognize our community in a way we don’t get to see every day, It’s that recognition, that acknowledgment of our contributions, and our community,” De La Torre said. ” I think we’re still learning about our history, just really being able to be more proud of that. De La Torre went on to say that learning more is what will make us a more diverse nation, a more inclusive place.
Muñoz reiterated the commitment of Benton County to serving its diverse communities and the importance of the partnership with Casa Latinos Unidos, a local nonprofit dedicated to serving the Latino community that strengthens the Latinx communities in Linn and Benton Counties through programs that support people in meeting basic needs, building resilience and capacity through education and leadership development, and celebrating cultures.
“We as a county government, are committed to serving our communities in different ways, in the ways we can. But we know that we can’t do this work alone. It is so important that we don’t do our work in silos, and so we’re super excited that we have Casa Latinos Unidos present here with us,” Muñoz said.
The proclamation was read in Spanish by Jessica Rodriguez from Casa Latinos Unidos, and in English by Benton County District Attorney John Haroldson who also gave comments in both Spanish and English at the gathering and acknowledged the historic significance of his role with Benton County.
“I am the first and only Latino District Attorney in the history of the state of Oregon, and that was made possible in Benton County,” Haroldson proudly proclaimed.
He praised the supportive leadership within the county, acknowledging the contributions of key figures like retired Benton County Commissioner Annabelle Jaramillo and current Commissioner Xan Augerot, who had paved the way for greater inclusivity.
“The history of Hispanic and Latinx people in the U.S. predates the founding of our nation with roots in the land as indigenous people who have shaped the fabric of this country. With a national theme, “Latinos: Driving Prosperity, Power, and Progress in America,” Benton County’s observance celebrates the histories, cultures, and contributions made by Hispanic Americans who trace their roots to Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries in North America, Central America, South America, and the Caribbean,” Haroldson articulated during the proclamation reading.
Benton County Commissioner Xan Augerot, whose family originally hails from New Mexico, added a personal touch to the ceremony, emphasizing the importance of a representative workforce and her own cultural roots.
“It’s important that our workforce is representative so that we can continue to improve our services and continue to do better at what we do. Hispanic American Heritage Month is important to me personally because I also have roots in the culture,” Augerot shared.
In Benton County, this year’s Hispanic Heritage Month proclamation reading wasn’t just an event; it was a heartfelt celebration of unity, recognition, and the rich tapestry of Hispanic America heritage that enriches the community. View pictures of the event or watch the video.
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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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El Condado de Benton celebra la unidad y la diversidad en el Mes de la Herencia Hispana de 2023 con una proclamación y una reunión
El Condado de Benton reconoció la importancia de la unidad y la diversidad durante el Mes de la Herencia Hispana de 2023 con una reunión significativa y una lectura de proclamación para honrar a los empleados del Condado de Benton y la herencia latina/hispana el 3 de octubre, en el edificio Kalapuya en Corvallis. Los empleados del Condado de Benton y los líderes locales de Casa Latinos Unidos se reunieron para conmemorar el Mes de la Herencia Hispana en Estados Unidos, del 15 de septiembre al 15 de octubre.
Rocío Muñoz, Gerente Interina de la División de Comunidades Saludables del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton, inauguró la ceremonia con un mensaje sincero, enfatizando la importancia de reconocer a la comunidad hispana dentro del Condado de Benton.
“Estamos aquí hoy porque estamos proclamando el Mes de la Herencia Hispana en el Condado de Benton y queríamos asegurarnos de que nuestros empleados supieran lo importante que son y que son parte de esta comunidad”, expresó Muñoz.
Darling Hernández, asistente médica bilingüe de la Clínica de Salud de Lincoln, recalcó estos sentimientos. Hernández destacó la importancia de reconocer los aportes de la comunidad latina e inculcar los mismos valores a las generaciones futuras. Hernández agregó que es importante ser reconocida como una comunidad latina/hispana americana y mostrar a las generaciones futuras lo importante que es ser parte de esta comunidad también.
Cynthia De La Torre del Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton enfatizó la importancia de proclamaciones como estas para reconocer y celebrar las grandes contribuciones de la comunidad.
“Creo que las proclamaciones son importantes porque reconocen a nuestra comunidad de una manera que no vemos todos los días. Es ese reconocimiento de nuestras contribuciones y de nuestra comunidad”, dijo De La Torre. “Creo que todavía estamos aprendiendo sobre nuestra historia, simplemente podemos estar más orgullosos de eso.” De La Torre continuó diciendo que aprender más es lo que nos hará una nación más diversa, un lugar más inclusivo.
Muñoz reiteró el compromiso del Condado de Benton de servir a sus diversas comunidades y la importancia de la colaboración con Casa Latinos Unidos, una organización local sin fines de lucro dedicada a servir a la comunidad latina que fortalece a las comunidades latinas en los condados de Linn y Benton. Esto lo hacen a través de programas que apoyan a las personas con necesidades básicas, desarrollar resiliencia y capacidad a través de la educación y el desarrollo del liderazgo, y celebrar las culturas.
“Nosotros, como gobierno del condado, estamos comprometidos a servir a nuestras comunidades de diferentes maneras, en la forma que podamos. Pero sabemos que no podemos hacer este trabajo solos. Es muy importante que no hagamos nuestro trabajo a solas, y por eso estamos muy emocionados de tener a Casa Latinos Unidos presente aquí con nosotros”, dijo Muñoz.
La proclamación fue leída en español por Jessica Rodríguez de Casa Latinos Unidos, y en inglés por el Fiscal de Distrito del Condado de Benton, John Haroldson, quien también hizo comentarios tanto en
español como en inglés en la reunión y reconoció la importancia histórica de su papel en el Condado de Benton.
“Soy el primer y único fiscal latino en la historia del estado de Oregón, y eso fue posible en el condado de Benton”, proclamó con orgullo Haroldson.
Elogió el liderazgo solidario dentro del condado y reconoció las contribuciones de figuras importante a llevar esto a cabo como la comisionada jubilada del Condado de Benton, Annabelle Jaramillo, y la actual comisionada, Xan Augerot, quienes han creado el camino para una mayor inclusión.
“La historia de los hispanos y latinos en los Estados Unidos antecede a la fundación de este país, con sus orígenes en esta tierra como pueblos indígenas. Con el tema nacional “Latinos: impulsando la prosperidad, el poder y el progreso en Estados Unidos”, la conmemoración del Condado de Benton celebra las historias, culturas y todas las contribuciones hechas por los hispanos y latinos que tienen raíces en España y otros países de habla hispana en Norteamérica, Centroamérica, Sudamérica y el Caribe”, articuló Haroldson durante la lectura de la proclamación.
La Comisionada del Condado de Benton, Xan Augerot, cuya familia es originaria de Nuevo México, añadió un toque personal a la ceremonia, enfatizando la importancia de una fuerza laboral representativa y sus propias raíces culturales.
“Es importante que nuestra fuerza laboral sea representativa para que podamos seguir mejorando nuestros servicios y seguir haciéndolo mejor en lo que hacemos. El Mes de la Herencia Hispana es importante para mí personalmente porque también tengo raíces en la cultura”, compartió Augerot.
En el Condado de Benton, la lectura de la proclamación del Mes de la Herencia Hispana de este año no fue solo un evento; fue una celebración sincera de unidad, reconocimiento y el rico tapiz de la herencia hispana que enriquece a la comunidad.
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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
The Benton County Developmental Diversity Program will hold an open house event on Friday, October 20, 2023 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in the Benton County Sunset Building at 4077 SW Research Way in Corvallis. They invite the community to join them in their new office location, after resettling from their move in February 2023.
The event is open to all ages and will include free food, music, and fun activities for all. Community members are invited to tour the new space, learn more about the Developmental Diversity Program, ask questions, and get to know the team.
“We’re excited to welcome folks in to share our new space, build community, and celebrate developmental diversity together,” said Developmental Diversity Division Manager, Jasper Smith.
The event coincides with National Disability Employment Month, celebrated every year in October to highlight the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.
The Benton County Developmental Diversity Program provides support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities that meet state criteria for eligibility. The program serves as the point of access to services and support for people in Benton County, including employment connections and supports.
Benton County was the first county in the state to launch a program for people with developmental disabilities. It began in 1971 as a pilot and after two years, counties all over the state began adopting the program. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the statewide program.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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Diversidad del Desarrollo del Condado de Benton presentación de las oficinas
El Programa de Diversidad del Desarrollo del Condado de Benton llevará a cabo una presentación de sus nuevas oficinas el viernes 20 de octubre de 2023 de 4:00 p.m. a 6:00 p.m. en el edificio Sunset del Condado de Benton en el 4077 SW Research Way en Corvallis. Toda la comunidad está invitada a venir a la nueva ubicación de sus oficinas, después de haberse movido y reinstalado en febrero de 2023.
El evento es para todas las edades e incluye comida, música y divertidas actividades gratis para todos. Los miembros de la comunidad están invitados a recorrer el nuevo espacio, aprender más sobre el Programa de Diversidad del Desarrollo, hacer preguntas y conocer al equipo.
“Estamos entusiasmados de darle la bienvenida a la gente para que comparta nuestro nuevo espacio, construir una comunidad y celebrar juntos la diversidad del desarrollo”, dijo el gerente de la División de Diversidad del Desarrollo, Jasper Smith.
El evento coincide con el Mes Nacional del Empleo para Personas con Discapacidad, que se celebra cada año en octubre para resaltar las contribuciones de los trabajadores con discapacidades del pasado y del presente de Estados Unidos y muestra políticas y prácticas de empleo inclusivas y de apoyo que benefician a empleadores y empleados.
El Programa de Diversidad del Desarrollo del Condado de Benton brinda apoyo a niños y adultos con discapacidades intelectuales y del desarrollo que cumplen con los criterios estatales de elegibilidad. El programa sirve como punto de acceso a servicios y apoyo para las personas en el Condado de Benton, incluyendo conexiones y apoyos de trabajo.
El Condado de Benton fue el primer condado del estado en lanzar un programa para personas con discapacidades del desarrollo. Comenzó en 1971 como programa piloto y después de dos años, condados de todo el estado comenzaron a adoptar el programa. Este año se cumple el 50 aniversario del programa estatal.
El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
Benton County’s local planning group for HB 5019 meet to develop a community plan.
In July and August, we shared (see below) that Oregon granted $1.2 million to service providers in Benton County with a goal to support rapid re-housing for community members in need. Today, we are providing an update on that communication.
State Funding: Governor Kotek’s recent announcement provided an update about state funding for sheltering and rehousing in the Balance of State Continuum of Care, also called the Rural Oregon Continuum of Care (ROCC).
Benton County’s portion of this funding will be $1,175,000 for emergency sheltering, awarded to Unity Shelter and $1,266,000 to fund a community effort to rehouse people by June 2025. This funding is part of a larger effort by the state from HB 5019 to support local communities in helping transition people out of homelessness. (For local background on HB 5019, see the below news update from July 2023.)
Local Community Plan: In July, our local planning group of diverse organizations involved in homelessness developed a community plan to identify our highest priority populations with the greatest barriers to housing. The community plan outlines rehousing strategies that this funding could support.
Due to overwhelming requests from local planning groups for emergency shelter funds, the state adjusted the original rehousing funding awards. In collaboration with our local planning group partners, we will adjust our community plan to match our new allocation.
Next Steps: We will learn more next week from Oregon Housing & Community Services (OHCS) about timeline, next steps, and process. Until we know more, we are celebrating by sharing this message with community partners.
To learn more about local work to end homelessness, visit Benton County’s Coordinated Homeless Response Office website.
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July 2023
Oregon Housing and Community Services is working with local planning groups to allocate $26 million in funding for rapid rehousing and sheltering through House Bill (HB) 5019 to counties in the Rural Oregon Continuum of Care (ROCC), which includes Benton County.
$1.2 million* will be allocated in Benton County to support rapid rehousing for 33 people.
Another $6 million in sheltering funds is available through a competitive application process among the 26 counties in the ROCC.
The Benton County Coordinated Homeless Response Office compiled input and data from local homeless service providers and engaged in conversations with the community to inform the County’s implementation plan for HB 5019.
*The amount originally allocated by the state for the Benton County local planning group was $1.4 million, with $1.2 million dedicated to rehousing activities, and $200,000 dedicated for administrative costs.
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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
The Benton County Commissioners were joined by nearly 60 dignitaries and invited guests at an event to break ground on the new Benton County Crisis Center at the site of the new facility at 240 NW 4th Street, in Corvallis. The Benton County Crisis Center is a voluntary walk-in treatment-centered facility that provides stabilization for individuals experiencing mental health crisis, along with referrals and support for ongoing behavioral health services.
The project is financed with $7.7 million in state and federal funding, which includes a two-story, 8,000 square foot building on Benton County-owned property. Benton County Health Department secured $5.45 million for the project from the Oregon state general fund through House Bill 5202. Oregon Representative Dan Rayfield helped secure $1.25 million of American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Funds for the project, and U.S. Representative Peter DeFazio, along with U.S. Senators Ron Wyden and Jeff Merkely, helped secure $1 million from a federal appropriations bill. Gerding Builders, a Corvallis-based company is the Design-build contractor for the project. Gerding Builders has worked closely with Mahlum Architects to ensure that the design meets Benton County’s goals, budget and design to meet the unique needs of Benton County residents.
“The Crisis Center will provide immediate assistance and support to individuals experiencing mental health crises,” shared Benton County Behavioral Health Director Damien Sands.
“It will be a safe and non-judgmental environment where people can seek help when they need it most. This prompt intervention can prevent situations from escalating and potentially save lives. The facility will be staffed to handle various mental health crises, including suicidal ideation, severe anxiety or depression, substance abuse emergencies, and psychosis. We will have trained professionals who can assess the situation, provide appropriate interventions, and stabilize individuals in crisis.”
The crisis center will be staffed by the Benton County Health Department’s behavioral health crisis team and is an expansion of existing mental health crisis services offered by the County. Services will include 24/7 walk-in and mobile crisis services, 5-7 stabilization recliners, and 5-7 respite beds. With construction starting in June of 2023, the facility is expected to open in the summer of 2024.
The crisis center is a project of Benton County’s Justice System Improvement Program (JSIP), a multi-year effort to improve outcomes in our communities. Addressing mental health needs is a primary focus of JSIP’s vision for enhanced County programs and facilities. The crisis center may serve as a resource on calls to law enforcement that involve a mental health concern.
Crisis services are currently available from Benton County Health Department’s mental health crisis team by calling the Benton County Crisis Line at 1-888-232-7192. Benton County Health Department also offers walk-in mental health crisis counseling services for all ages. No appointment is needed. Simply stop at the front desk and ask “to see the Counselor of the Day”. The services are currently located at 557 NW Monroe Avenue, Corvallis, OR, Monday – Friday, 8:00 am – 5:00 pm.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
Benton County, the City of Corvallis, and Community Services Consortium (CSC) are part of a pilot program sponsored by Oregon State House Bill 4123 to support a coordinated response to homelessness. As required by HB 4123 (2022), staff from the newly formed Benton County Coordinated Homelessness Response Office are preparing a five-year strategic plan to be finalized this summer. The draft strategic plan was presented to the Home, Opportunity, Planning, and Equity (HOPE) Advisory Board meeting for feedback. The meeting, held Wednesday, May 24 at the Benton County Kalapuya Building in Corvallis and online, was the first hybrid format meeting for the committee since the onset of the pandemic.
The draft strategic plan was created in alignment with HB 4123 requirements, incorporates the twelve HOPE Policy Recommendations, and will include input from regional health assessment partners gathered at outreach events this spring and summer. Key elements of the strategic plan include:
Sustainable funding for ongoing operations of the coordinated homelessness response system
Increasing or streamlining resources and services to people at risk of or experiencing homelessness
Incorporating national best practices for ending homelessness
Eliminating racial disparities within the service area
Creating pathways to permanent and supportive housing that is affordable to local populations experiencing or at risk of homelessness
“We are so fortunate to have an active group of partners and community members,” shared Coordinated Homeless Response Office Program Coordinator, Julie Arena. “Well before the enactment of HB 4123, the City of Corvallis and Benton County were building the foundation for coordinated homeless response as part of a ten-year plan to address homelessness. With this strong foundation, Benton County deployed state and federal investments as they became available starting in 2020 and applied for HB 4123 funding in 2022.”
The County has leveraged state, federal, and local funds including Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (CARES), American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), and other funds to bring over $9 million in new investments to fund food, shelter, eviction prevention, and capacity for community-based organizations.
Learn more about what has already been accomplished:
Benton County Commissioner Nancy Wyse is a liaison to the HOPE Advisory Board and is pleased with the progress made by the Coordinated Homelessness Response Office so far. “Benton County is committed to using resources effectively to directly address homelessness. In addition to the City of Corvallis and Community Services Consortium, we are grateful for community members and partners who have joined with us in this vitally important work.”
Benton County is facing a significant challenge as the number of individuals experiencing homelessness continues to grow in Oregon. Recent data reveals that Benton County has the highest rent-burdened city in Oregon, with 40% of all renters paying more than 50% of their income on rent.
The HOPE Advisory Board is a joint effort between Benton County and the City of Corvallis to facilitate a comprehensive, coordinated response from the county, cities, and diverse community partners, leaders, and persons experiencing homelessness. The Board meets on the 4th Wednesday of every month from 4:00 – 6:00 p.m. Visit the HOPE Advisory Board webpage for information about attending a meeting or to subscribe to the HOPE News & Updates email list.
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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
May 9 is National Fentanyl Awareness Day and the Benton County Health Department, in partnership with the Benton County Sheriff’s Office, Corvallis Police Department, and the Benton County Board of Commissioners is launching a new campaign to help raise community awareness about the powerful synthetic opioid, fentanyl.
The County has seen increased calls to 911, emergency room visits, and even death because of recent increases in the supply and use of fentanyl in Benton County. The campaign, modeled after Lane County’s, is aimed at counteracting these negative effects by empowering the community with knowledge, tools, and resources.
“Our new campaign will provide youth, families, and community members with tools to stay safe, how to spot and respond to an overdose, and resources for treatment,” said Mara Sargent, Substance Misuse Prevention and Education Coordinator. “We’re thankful to partner with local law enforcement to offer information sessions to the community.”
As part of the Fentanyl Aware campaign, the three agencies will hold their first English information session at 6:30 p.m. on Tuesday, May 23 at the Benton County Kalapuya building located at 4500 SW Research Way in Corvallis. Plans are also underway for a Spanish session. Community members are invited to attend the session, which will include information on local crime and overdose statistics, tips for parents, how to find and use naloxone, connections to resources, and free safety tools.
Benton County will also promote this information on web and social media channels as well as through partnerships and educational opportunities with school districts and community organizations.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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El Condado de Benton lanza una campaña para crear conciencia sobre el Fentanilo
El 9 de mayo es el Día Nacional de Crear Conciencia sobre el Fentanilo y el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton, en colaboración con la Oficina del Sheriff del Condado de Benton, el Departamento de Policía de Corvallis y los Junta de Comisionados del Condado Benton, está lanzando una nueva campaña para ayudar a crear conciencia en la comunidad sobre la poderosa droga sintética, el fentanilo.
El condado ha visto un aumento de llamadas al 911, visitas a la sala de emergencias e incluso muertes debido a los recientes aumentos en el abasteciemiento y uso de fentanilo en el Condado de Benton. La campaña, inspirada en la del Condado de Lane, tiene como objetivo contrarrestar estos efectos negativos al fortalecer a la comunidad con conocimientos, herramientas y recursos.
“Nuestra nueva campaña ofrecerá a los jóvenes, a las familias y a los miembros de la comunidad, herramientas para mantenerse seguros, cómo detectar y responder a una sobredosis y recursos para el tratamiento”, dijo Mara Sargent, Coordinadora de Educación y Prevención del Uso Indebido de Drogas. “Estamos agradecidos de asociarnos con las autoridades locales para ofrecer sesiones informativas a la comunidad”.
Como parte de la campaña de concientización sobre el fentanilo, las tres agencias ofrecerán su primera sesión informativa en inglés a las 6:30 p.m. el martes 23 de mayo, en el edificio Kalapuya del Condado de Benton, ubicado en el 4500 SW Research Way en Corvallis. También se tiene planeado hacer una sesión en español. Se invita a todos los miembros de la comunidad a asistir a la sesión, que incluirá información sobre delincuencia local y estadísticas de sobredosis, consejos para padres, cómo encontrar y usar Naloxona, conexiones a recursos y herramientas de seguridad gratis.
El Condado de Benton también promoverá esta información en su sitio web y en las redes sociales, así como a través de asociaciones y oportunidades educativas con distritos escolares y organizaciones comunitarias.
El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
May is Mental Health Awareness Month and Benton County is celebrating with a major milestone toward completing the Benton County Crisis Center.
The Benton County Crisis Center will be a voluntary walk-in treatment-centered facility which provides stabilization for those experiencing a mental health crisis, along with referrals and support for ongoing services. The crisis center is also a project of Benton County’s Justice System Improvement Program (JSIP), a multi-year effort to improve outcomes in our communities.
Benton County, along with Gerding Builders and Mahlum Architects, worked on the design for the crisis center with local partners like Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Intercommunity Health Network, Oregon State University, and the Corvallis Police Department as part of a design committee, which also included local non-profit organizations.
“We want to thank our community partners for their participation in the design process,” said Ricky Garcia, project manager for the Benton County Crisis Center. “This has been a collaborative effort to ensure we are meeting the needs of our community and we are really happy with the final design.”
Now that the design of the new Benton County Crisis Center is complete, the construction team has started the permitting process, with services expected to begin in the summer of 2024.
“We recently received notice that the lot consolidation was approved, which is a key milestone in the permitting process, said Benton County Public Works Director, Gary Stockhoff. “We expect to begin onsite work later this spring.”
As the Benton County Health Department waits for completion of the new crisis center, the Behavioral Health team is working on policies and procedures for the new site and fine tuning their staffing model to prepare for the increased staffing need.
“We are hiring mental health crisis professionals now,” Crisis Manager, Eric Bowling said. Find more information about open positions at: co.benton.or.us/hr/page/careers.
While the crisis center won’t be operational until next summer, community members can access crisis services now at 557 NW Monroe Ave. in Corvallis, between the hours of 8:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Monday through Friday. The community can also call the 24-hour crisis hotline at 1-888-232-7192. Visit bit.ly/BentonCoGov-MentalHealthCrisisSupport to learn more.
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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton celebra el mes de crear conciencia sobre la salud mental modernizando el Centro de Crisis
Mayo es el mes de crear conciencia sobre la salud mental y el Condado de Benton está celebrando con un hecho importante hacia la finalización del Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton.
El Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton será un centro de tratamiento voluntario sin previa cita que brindará estabilización a quienes experimenten una crisis de salud mental, junto con referencias y apoyo para servicios continuos. El Centro de Crisis también es un proyecto del Programa de Mejoramiento del Sistema de Justicia del Condado de Benton (JSIP), un esfuerzo de varios años para mejorar los resultados en nuestras comunidades.
El Condado de Benton, junto con Gerding Builders y Mahlum Architects, trabajaron en el diseño del Centro de Crisis con socios locales como Good Samaritan Regional Medical Center, Intercommunity Health Network, Oregon State University y el Departamento de Policía de Corvallis como parte de un comité de diseño, en el que también se incluyeron organizaciones locales sin fines de lucro.
“Queremos agradecer a nuestros socios comunitarios por su participación en el proceso del diseño”, dijo Ricky García, Gerente de Proyecto del Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton. “Este ha sido un esfuerzo de colaboración para garantizar que estamos satisfaciendo las necesidades de nuestra comunidad y estamos muy contentos con el diseño final”.
Ahora que el diseño del nuevo Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton está completo, el equipo de construcción ha comenzado el proceso para obtener los permisos y se espera que comience a dar servicio en el verano de 2024.
“Recientemente recibimos un aviso de que se aprobó la consolidación de lotes, lo cual es un hecho clave en el proceso de obtención de permisos”, dijo el Director de Obras Públicas del Condado de Benton, Gary Stockhoff. “Esperamos comenzar el trabajo en el sitio a finales de esta primavera”.
Mientras el Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton espera que se complete el nuevo Centro de Crisis, el equipo de Salud de la Conducta está trabajando en políticas y procedimientos para el nuevo sitio, ajustando su modelo en la cantidad de empleados y preparándose para la necesidad de tener más personal.
“Estamos contratando profesionales de crisis de salud mental ahora”, dijo Eric Bowling, Gerente de Crisis. Encuentre más información sobre puestos vacantes en: co.benton.or.us/hr/page/careers.
Si bien el Centro de Crisis no estará funcionando hasta el próximo verano, los miembros de la comunidad pueden acceder a los servicios de crisis ahora en el 557 NW Monroe Ave. en Corvallis, De lunes a viernes, de las 8:00 a.m. a las 5:00 p.m. La comunidad también puede llamar a la línea directa de crisis las 24 horas al 1-888-232-7192. Visite bit.ly/BentonCoGov-MentalHealthCrisisSupport para obtener más información.
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El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
The regional Community Health Assessment (CHA) 2022 – 2026 is now available! The purpose of this assessment is to learn about the health status of the people living in Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties and identify areas for improvement. Benton County Health Department, in collaboration with the Partnership for Community Health: Linn, Benton & Lincoln Counties, continues to share the results of the regional CHA with the community and gather input on key health issues to include in the regional community health improvement plan (CHIP). The CHIP guides how the region focuses resources that are working to improve the health of all people who live, work, learn and play in our region.
Join us to learn more about your community’s health! Help us discover health priorities for Linn, Benton, and Lincoln counties. Community meetings are occurring throughout the region. Here are Benton County upcoming community engagements:
Saturday, April 29, 2023; Event: 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Keys for the People Housing Festival CHA Presentation: 2:10 – 3:10 p.m. (English session) Corvallis Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Avenue, Corvallis
Thursday, May 4, 2023; 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. (English session) Monroe Community Library, 380 N. 5th Street, Monroe
Attendance at a community meeting is encouraged, but not required in order to contribute to the planning process. Community members can also review the data and vote on their priorities by accessing the following links:
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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¡El reporte de la Evaluación Regional de la Salud Comunitaria 2022 – 2026 ya está disponible! El Condado de Benton continúa pidiendo la opinión de la comunidad en informar el Plan Regional de Mejoramiento de la Salud Comunitaria
¡El reporte de la Evaluación de Salud Comunitaria (CHA) regional 2022 – 2026 ya está disponible! El propósito de esta evaluación es conocer el estado de salud de las personas que viven en los condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln e identificar áreas de mejoramiento. El Departamento de Salud del Condado de Benton, en colaboración con la Asociación para la Salud Comunitaria: condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln, continúa compartiendo los resultados de la evaluación regional con la comunidad y recopilando información sobre los principales problemas de salud para incluir en el Plan Regional de Mejoramiento de la Salud de la Comunidad. Este plan dirige cómo la región enfoca los recursos para mejorar la salud de todas las personas que viven, trabajan, aprenden y juegan en nuestra región.
¡Participe para aprender más sobre la salud de su comunidad! Ayúdenos a identificar las prioridades de la salud para los condados de Linn, Benton y Lincoln. Se están llevando a cabo reuniones comunitarias en toda la región. Aquí están los próximos eventos dentro del Condado de Benton:
Sábado, 29 de abril, 2023; Evento: 1:00 – 5:00 p.m. Evento comunitario Llaves para la Gentel Presentación de la evaluación: 2:10 – 3:10 p.m. (Sesión en inglés) Corvallis Community Center, 2601 NW Tyler Avenue, Corvallis
Jueves, 4 de mayo, 2023, 5:30 – 7:00 p.m. (Sesión en inglés) Biblioteca de la Comunidad de Monroe, 380 N. 5th Street, Monroe
Sábado 6 de mayo, 2023, 11:00 – 1:00 p.m. (Sesión en español) Escuela Primaria de Garfield, 1205 NW Garfield Avenue, Corvallis
Miércoles, 17 de mayo, 2023, 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. (Sesión en español) Banco de Comida South Benton, 650 Orchard Street, Monroe
Se invita al público a asistir a una conversación comunitaria pero no es necesaria para contribuir al proceso. Los miembros de la comunidad también pueden obtener una copia de la presentación y votar para identificar sus prioridades visitando los siguientes enlaces:
El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
Benton County Mental Health Crisis Services will relocate to the Benton County Humphrey Hoyer Building at 557 NW Monroe Avenue in Corvallis on Wednesday, April 26, 2023. Services at their current location on 530 NW 27 Street will end on Tuesday, April 25, at 5:00 p.m.
The Crisis Services program has been providing walk-in crisis counseling services at the Benton County Health Services Building for over a decade. This service means that anyone experiencing a mental health crisis can show up between 8:00 a.m. and 5:00 p.m., Monday through Friday and ask to “see the Counselor of the Day,” who is available to provide same-day crisis counseling services. These services will now be available in the new location near the downtown Corvallis transit center, until the program can move into its permanent home at the future Benton County Crisis Center.
“The Humphrey Hoyer building is right next to the downtown bus station and library, which means easier access for clients,” said Eric Bowling, Benton County Crisis Manager. “The temporary move will make a good home until we can move into the future crisis center where we can expand our services even further.”
Benton County is working to build a new crisis center, to be located at 240 NW 4th Street in downtown Corvallis. The project recently moved out of the design phase and into the permitting process. Benton County expects the new building to open for services in summer 2024.
The future Crisis Center will add crisis stabilization and respite services, as well as expand walk-in counseling hours to 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
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Reubicación de los Servicios de Crisis del Condado de Benton
Los Servicios de Crisis de Salud Mental del Condado de Benton se trasladarán al Edificio Humphrey Hoyer del Condado de Benton en el 557 NW Monroe Avenue en Corvallis, el miércoles 26 de abril de 2023. Los servicios en su ubicación actual en el 530 NW 27 Street terminarán el martes 25 de abril a las 5:00 p.m.
El Programa de Servicios de Crisis ha brindado servicios de asesoramiento de crisis sin previa cita en el Edificio de Servicios de Salud del Condado de Benton durante más de una década. Este servicio significa que cualquier persona que experimente una crisis de salud mental puede presentarse entre las 8:00 a.m. y las 5:00 p.m., de lunes a viernes y solicitar “ver al consejero del día”, que está disponible para brindar servicios de consejería de crisis el mismo día. Estos servicios ahora estarán disponibles en la nueva ubicación cerca del centro de tránsito del Centro de Corvallis, hasta que el programa pueda moverse a su lugar permanente en el futuro Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton.
“El edificio Humphrey Hoyer está justo al lado de la estación de autobuses y la biblioteca del Centro, lo que significa un acceso más fácil para los clientes”, dijo Eric Bowling, Gerente de Crisis del Condado de Benton. “La mudanza temporal será un buen lugar hasta que podamos mudarnos al futuro Centro de Crisis donde podremos expandir nuestros servicios aún más”.
El Condado de Benton está trabajando para construir un nuevo Centro de Crisis, que estará ubicado en 240 NW 4th Street en el Centro de Corvallis. El proyecto recientemente pasó de la fase de diseño al proceso de obtención de permisos. El Condado de Benton espera que el nuevo edificio abra sus servicios en el verano de 2024.
El futuro Centro de Crisis agregará servicios de estabilización de crisis y de relevo y ampliará el horario de asesoramiento sin previa cita las 24 horas del día, los 7 días de la semana.
Para obtener más información sobre los Servicios de Crisis de Salud Mental del Condado de Benton y el futuro Centro de Crisis del Condado de Benton, visite: co.benton.or.us/health/page/crisis-services
El Condado de Benton es un empleador que ofrece igualdad de oportunidades y acción afirmativa y no discrimina por motivos de discapacidad en la admisión o el acceso a nuestros programas, servicios, actividades, contratación y prácticas de empleo. Este documento está disponible en formatos e idiomas alternativos a pedido. Comuníquese con la Oficina de Información Pública al 541-766-6800 o pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.
