Julie Kramp, Executive Director for The Center for Counseling and Consultation, spoke to the women of Progress Club at their Feb. 2 meeting.

Community health centers were established more than 50 years ago by the Community Health Center Act of 1963 under the direction of John F. Kennedy. The Center in Great Bend services Barton, Rice, Stafford and Pawnee counties.

The entire state of Kansas is serviced by a total of 26 mental health facilities, 24-7. These facilities must meet the state licensing requirements and regulations. The governing board is appointed by county commissioners.

Anyone may come to the Center for help and they will not be turned away. The number of clients confirms the need for professional services. Being treated at a local facility helps to keep the cost down.

The Center does not deny services due to an inability to pay. Kramp shared the Mission Statement, the Vision Statement and the Core Values of the Center.