Grassroots Effort Aims for 708 Mental Health Board in Downers Grove

A grassroots initiative is underway in Downers Grove Township to place a referendum for the establishment of a 708 Mental Health Board on the ballot for the upcoming elections in November 2026. Local residents are actively gathering signatures to support this effort, aiming to enhance mental health services in their community.

Debbie Hare, a member of the volunteer group spearheading the initiative, highlighted the significance of this move. “Downers Grove Township is the only township in DuPage County that doesn’t have a 708 board,” she stated, adding that it is the largest township in the county by both population and size. The establishment of 708 Mental Health Boards is governed by the Illinois Community Mental Health Act, which allows these boards to be formed under any unit of government but requires a public vote for their creation.

The primary function of these boards is to assess funding for local organizations that address mental health challenges, intellectual and developmental disabilities, and substance use disorders. Currently, over 90 such boards operate across Illinois, predominantly at the county level, with some under township management.

To qualify for the ballot, the group aims to collect 5,000 signatures from township residents. So far, nearly 1,000 people have signed the petition. Hare emphasized the widespread impact of mental health issues, stating, “Most everyone these days knows someone affected in some way by mental health issues, developmental and intellectual disabilities or substance issues.”

The petition drive officially launched with around 65 attendees at the kickoff event. If the referendum passes, the proposed tax rate for the 708 Mental Health Board in Downers Grove Township would be 0.025%. This translates to approximately $33.33 annually for homeowners valued at $400,000. Hare assured residents that the funds raised would remain within the community to support local services.

Recent examples from nearby townships illustrate the potential benefits. In 2023, the Lisle Township Community Mental Health Board was formed and is set to allocate over $1 million in fiscal 2026 to local social service agencies. This includes funding for organizations like Kids Matter, which will receive more than $120,000, Trinity Services at $100,000, and Easter Seals Medical Rehabilitation at $85,000. Similarly, Naperville Township approved just under $500,000 in funding for various mental health initiatives.

Mike Murray, another advocate for the 708 initiative, noted that the boards began appearing in the county following a successful referendum in Bloomingdale Township in 2017. “It is a citizens’ initiative,” Murray said, acknowledging the hesitance to increase taxes but emphasizing the value of the investment in community well-being. He clarified that the board would not add another layer of government but would instead provide small grants to underfunded organizations already serving the community.

Murray also pointed to the historical context of mental health advocacy, referencing President John F. Kennedy‘s signing of the Community Mental Health Act in 1963. “It was President Kennedy’s dream to keep people in the community,” he remarked. “Ultimately, the goal is to create a more loving community.”

Corin Hammond, who played a significant role in forming the Downers Grove Township Mental Health Advisory Committee, highlighted the ongoing efforts in coalition building. She stated that the group is reaching out to service providers that may be underfunded. “We are doing the boots on the ground, understanding the need, creating relationships, and understanding the changing needs of our community,” Hammond explained.

As the initiative advances, the community is encouraged to reflect on the potential impact of a 708 Mental Health Board. “Everyone, all humans, are impacted by mental health,” Hammond emphasized, noting that many residents know someone affected by mental health challenges or disabilities. “When you really scratch the surface, all humans need these services.”

The successful establishment of a 708 Mental Health Board could significantly enhance mental health resources in Downers Grove Township, ensuring that the community is better equipped to support those in need.