Minnesota’s mental health care crisis is real, and it’s especially pronounced in communities of color. July has been designated as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. While mental health conditions don’t discriminate on the premise of race, background, and identity could make access to treatment tougher.

It’s estimated that one in five Americans experience a mental health disorder. Statistics show that only 39% of Black adults with any mental illness are treated, in comparison with 52% of White adults.

Coming out of the pandemic era, people of all ages from our community have sought and are in search of assist in recognizing and coping with their mental health concerns and diagnoses.

Prairie Care, with seven locations within the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area is in an expansion mode to supply access to a full continuum of care and treatment for all Minnesotans, from outpatient services to intense short-term must inpatient care.

“We’re expanding our inpatient mental health hospital in Brooklyn Park, opening the doors this fall, to satisfy the increased needs of youth and young adults from aged 18 to 25,” said Allison Gibbons, talent acquisition manager.

The expansion would require additional staff.

Prairie Care is holding a job fair on July 18 to attach with those interested by joining its team in a wide range of roles, from clinical to support staff. Prairie Care is seeking to hire therapists, registered nurses, psych techs, social staff, medical receptionists, environmental service aids, security officers, and more.

“We’re in search of people from all different educational backgrounds. Some clinical positions require advanced degrees or advanced licensure. Other positions need a highschool diploma, GED, or some college,” Gibbons said. “We have now tuition reimbursement; they’ll get their foot in at an entry-level role, get their training, and take their profession to the following level.”

It’s also been a time when many individuals are re-evaluating their careers and considering work that they find more meaningful to the community.

“We search for people who find themselves enthusiastic about helping individuals with their mental health. We hear lots about people who find themselves impacted themselves or have had someone of their family with mental health issues they usually are drawn to a profession with purpose,” Gibbons said.

“So many individuals within the mental health occupation have that compassion and drive to assist others. We love individuals with that desire,” she added.

With a renewed DEI priority, Prairie Care is in search of job candidates who reflect their diverse patient population.

As one among the nation’s largest providers of psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults, and their families, Prairie Care offers competitive wages and advantages, with profession advancement opportunities and a collaborative environment with a team of caring professionals.

The job fair is July 18, from 11 am to three pm at 4510 West 77th Street in Edina. In an open house setting, candidates will have the opportunity to have their questions answered. Registration is preferred. Click here to register.