Why Elk Hill?
130,000 youth in Virginia struggle with mental health issues.
Despite high rates of mental illness in children 4 out of 5 children ages 6 to 17 who have mental health problems do not receive any help. For many of our communities, especially in the rural areas there is little to no access to mental health services. Poor mental health can impact a child’s success during school years, impair mental development, and imprint patterns of behavior that limit future success, happiness, and community contribution. But access to high quality mental health services means improved education, income and health.
The journey we boldly pursue: ACCESS
Closing gaps and advocating for children and families are the backbone of Elk Hill’s mission. We work with families, youth and the community to ensure solutions designed that meet their unique needs. We have a broad continuum of care: Residential Homes, Private Schools, Community Based Services. Allowing us the flexibility to meet the child’s need every step of the way.
Access Changes Everything
For most youth, mental health distress is episodic, not permanent, and most can successfully navigate the challenges that come from experiencing a mental health disorder with the right skills and support.
Access means:
a better future
Juvenile Justice System
Mental health issues correlate to higher incarnation rates. Approximately 50 to 75 percent of youth encountering the juvenile justice system meet criteria for a mental health disorder.
Access means:
success in school
Education
22 % of school-aged children and youth have a diagnosable mental health disorder.
Access means:
being healthier and saving lives
Mental Health
Mental health issues have been linked to high rates of depression, anxiety and suicide rates for the child. Research shows that half of all lifetime cases of mental
illness begin by age 14.
For every U.S. dollar invested in treating mental health,
there is a $4 return.
Learn how ACCESS changed the lives
of our students
When you grow up in a home without structure or stability, you learn an important lesson: The only person you can trust is yourself. Read more about Chloe's story.
A young man arrived at Elk Hill’s Goochland Campus, full of anxiety and unknowns. Jacob had been placed with us through Social Services on probation. Read more about Jacob's story.
As the pandemic shut down activities and programs, that loss was keenly felt by the young women at Spring Garden. But as many doors closed, one stayed open: the door outside. Read more about our youth at Spring Garden.