The purpose of this policy is to identify the roles and responsibilities of the Human Services Boards of Pierce County. In developing a system of services for eligible consumers in our county, it is essential that citizens participate on an ongoing basis in assessing needs, advising on programs related to the determined needs, and reviewing and evaluating the activities and results of these programs. The role of advocacy for particular target groups also can be met in this type of participation.

Pierce County Human Services is responsible for the day-to-day operation and management of program services in the specific areas of responsibility (mental health, developmental disabilities, chemical dependency and involuntary commitment). Contract management is the responsibility of the Director, and the responsibility for program service is assigned to the Program Coordinators/ Managers, who have direct liaison with all service providers. This assures that the best utilization of resources available is being provided in a quality and timely basis. In addition, the staff has the responsibility of providing leadership assistance to the individual County Boards.

Board members are appointed by the County Executive, subject to Council confirmation, based upon criteria established to assure a cross section of geographical representation, interests and expertise. The prime responsibilities are as follows:

• Provide advice and recommendations to the County Executive through Pierce County Human Services as appropriate or when requested.
• Assess the needs and concerns of all county residents relative to the program addressed by the specific board on which members serve.
• Represent and advocate for consumer constituencies in the various communities of the county.
• Review the annual program plans and budgets and offer recommendations when needed.
• Establish working committees to assist the Pierce County Human Services staff on particular issues and/or problem areas. Such committees, after adequate study and deliberation, will make recommendations in writing to the full board for board action.
• Schedule and hold open hearings with the public at large or with community citizen groups as appropriate or needed for providing information or receiving citizen input.

As an individual member of a County Board, your participation is needed to provide direction and to ensure that programs are carried out that truly serve the needs of our citizens. Working through Pierce County Human Services, your direction and advice will be sought. This two-way communication is an essential part of attaining our common goal.

The Pierce County Mental Health Advisory Board is currently seeking new members for its fifteen member citizen board. The Board provides community input for directions of the mental health services in Pierce County, advocates for service needs of consumers, evaluates services, and provides public information on county-funded services to seriously mentally disturbed children and chronically mentally ill adults.

Citizens should have a strong interest in improving the lives of persons with mental illness to be on the Board. The county seeks ethnic and geographic representation. Native American representatives are especially encouraged to apply. Prospective candidates should be able to devote a minimum of three hours per month to Board activities. Appointments are made for three year terms. Applications can be sent to Mental Health, Pierce County Human Services, 3580 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, 98418.

Anyone interested in serving on the Mental Health Advisory Board should call us at 253-798-7202 or 800-531-0508, or e-mail us.