Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center to Host Local Advisory Council Informational Meeting

Winona, Minn — Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center (HVMHC) will host a Local Advisory Council (LAC) Informational Meeting on Thursday, February 5, from 1:00–3:00 p.m. at its Winona Clinic, located at 420 E. Sarnia Street, Winona, MN. A virtual attendance option will be available via Microsoft Teams. 

The meeting is open to residents of Winona, Houston, Wabasha, and Fillmore Counties who are interested in learning how community voices help shape local mental health services and policies. 

Local Advisory Councils are a key part of Minnesota's mental health system. LAC members—individuals with lived experience, family members, advocates, and community stakeholders—provide feedback and recommendations that inform service planning, system improvements, and decision-making at the local and regional levels. 

"Local Advisory Councils give community members a meaningful opportunity to influence mental health services in their own counties," said Kate Dieter, Director of Adult Community Based Services at Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center. "The perspectives shared through the LAC help ensure services are responsive, accessible, and grounded in real community needs." 

The informational meeting will provide an overview of the LAC's role and responsibilities and explain how interested individuals can apply to serve on the Council. HVMHC is actively encouraging participation from residents across all four counties to ensure broad representation. 

The meeting will feature Megan Toney, Executive Director of NAMI Southeast Minnesota, as a guest speaker. Toney is a long-time mental health advocate with experience supporting individuals and families, providing education, and advancing collaboration across community organizations. Her presentation will highlight the value of advocacy partnerships and community involvement in strengthening mental health systems. 

Community members are encouraged to attend in person; snacks and refreshments will be provided. A virtual option is available for those unable to attend onsite. 

Meeting Location:
Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center – Winona (Garden Room)
420 E. Sarnia St., Winona, MN 

Virtual Attendance:
More information about the Local Advisory Council, including council details and the application to apply, and the virtual attendance link can be found at:  www.hvmhc.org/local-advisory-council 

About Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center 

Founded in 1965, Hiawatha Valley Mental Health Center (HVMHC) provides comprehensive behavioral health services to individuals and families across Southeastern Minnesota. The organization is committed to delivering compassionate, person-centered care and fostering wellness in every community it serves.  

For more information about HVMHC's services, visit www.hvmhc.org. To schedule an appointment, individuals can call 1-800-657-6777 or visit www.hvmhc.org/contact/make-an-appointment.  

HVMHC also oversees a Mobile Crisis Unit, available 24 hours a day in Fillmore, Goodhue, Houston, Wabasha, and Winona Counties. Assistance for this free to use service can be reached by calling 1-844-CRISIS2 (1-844-274-7472).