BUILDING CONNECTIONS: The Sexual Assault and Mental Health Project, is collaboration between the New York State Coalition Against Sexual Association (NYSCASA) and MHANYS. It is funded by the New York State Office of Mental Health. Since 1995, the mission has been to support task forces across the state specifically aimed at improving services for survivors of sexual trauma by linking mental health, rape crisis, peer advocates and other service providers. Through technical assistance, consultation, and training, the program promotes collaborative, trauma-informed treatment approaches which are strength-based, respectful, and destigmatizing.

Mission: The purpose of the Building Connections project is to support and strengthen collaborative relationships and coalitions with the aim to improve and coordinate trauma-based services for sexual assault survivors diagnosed with serious and persistent mental illness, in both Rape Crisis Centers and community-based mental health agencies.

Contact the Building Connections Project Co-Director at MHANYS