Critical Mental Health Services and Peer Support

Danelle Bowles’ Fundraiser - why I support mental wellness & Heartland Mental Health: 

I've managed (and struggled with) depression and anxiety for 20+ years. I've been fortunate to have ACCESS to mental health services when I needed them. 

Unfortunately, it can be difficult to find access in Denver, especially if you have Health First Colorado (Medicaid insurance). I've heard many stories of it taking months to get an appointment. But not at Heartland! Typically, it's about 2-3 weeks.

Heartland makes such a HUGE impact, not only by providing personalized mental health services, but also by offering opportunities for members/clients to GET INVOLVED WITH THE COMMUNITY — whether by joining groups and outings, through our peer employment program, the member board of directors, or our speakers’ bureau program. 

It helps provide COMMUNITY, CONNECTION, PURPOSE and a SENSE OF BELONGING — key aspects for mental well-being and recovery. 

I'm so grateful to be part of the Heartland Team! Thank you for donating to support our mission and our members! I appreciate you so much! 

Speaking with Aron & Karen at a community event earlier this year. We share our lived experience managing mental health conditions working to destigmatize mental healthcare and letting people know they are not alone.

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Did you know... 
Colorado ranks 41st in the nation for overall mental health and 
well-being? (citation)

YOU can truly make an impact in improving this. 

With changes to federal and state funding, this year Heartland needs your support more than ever! Your donation today will help sustain accessible, high-quality, and compassionate mental health services in Denver, Colorado.

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Heartland Mental Health is a nonprofit community mental health center and peer support organization for adults who use Health First Colorado (Colorado's Medicaid program). 

Our Mission is to transform lives by providing supportive member-centered, culturally responsive mental health, wellness, and recovery services.

We envision a community of wellness where members will flourish and live their best, self–directed lives.

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Member Testimonials

“Heartland saved my life. They got me in as a new client when I was at the end of my rope, and other places couldn’t get me in for months. I love the community we have here. They give me so much love and support. There’s no other place I’d rather be.”

-Patrick, client & peer employee

"When I came to Heartland, it opened my eyes to meeting people. I felt supported through good and bad days. I've learned to try to understand other people's feelings and my own feelings. Some days are still not easy, but other days are good. Sometimes I still react in ways I shouldn't, but I know other people have feelings and things going on in their lives. I can accept it, and I can accept myself and my life. I also have much better communication, problem-solving, and de-escalation techniques. I've learned all that here."

- Mike, Board of Director & Heartland member for ~30 years

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Our Story

In 1989, Heartland Mental Health was founded on a revolutionary idea: giving people with serious mental-health conditions a voice in their own care. They created a drop-in center and an outpatient mental health clinic in Denver's Capitol Hill neighborhood, providing a safe space where individuals could actively participate in decisions about their own well-being.

At the heart of everything Heartland does is the belief that peer support is essential for recovery. Individuals who have personally navigated mental health challenges are involved in every aspect of the organization's operations. This model ensures that all services and programs are deeply rooted in understanding, empathy, and a shared journey toward wellness.

We recognize that people living with serious mental health conditions face significant challenges beyond their symptoms, including a lack of understanding from society, unfulfilled basic needs, and a higher risk of experiencing homelessness and social isolation.

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The Heartland community is dedicated to confronting the stigmas associated with mental health conditions and seeking treatment. 


-May 2005

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All donations are tax-deductible and directly fund treatment, services, and operational costs at Heartland Mental Health (aka HEART of Boardwalk), a 501(c)(3) organization. Tax ID: 84-1116982.