In a recent government meeting, Mark Steiger, the director of behavioral health at the local jail, highlighted the critical role of mental health support within the correctional system. Steiger emphasized that while the jail has numerous responsibilities, it is not adequately equipped to serve as mental health case managers or to effectively communicate with families and medical providers.

The discussion centered around the collaboration with Summit Stone's JVBS staff, which has been instrumental in addressing the needs of inmates with behavioral health issues. A specific case was presented involving an individual who faced significant challenges related to trauma and gender identity. This person experienced a deterioration in mental health while in isolated housing, underscoring the need for comprehensive support.

Competency case manager Anna Napelbaum was recognized for her exceptional efforts in securing housing options for this individual. After exploring various alternatives, she successfully identified a sober living program tailored for LGBTQ+ individuals that also provided intensive therapy. This program was deemed essential for the individual’s recovery.

Napelbaum's proactive approach included personally transporting the individual to the Denver area to initiate their treatment and assisting with long-term Medicaid applications. The support from Shannon's team was also crucial, as they agreed to cover the first month of expenses while Medicaid was being established.

The meeting concluded with a sense of optimism regarding the individual’s future, as Steiger expressed confidence that the District Attorney's office would not revert to punitive measures if the individual continued to make progress. This case exemplifies the importance of integrated mental health services within the jail system and the positive outcomes that can arise from collaborative efforts.