Miami-Dade County's Behavioral Health Advisory Board recently discussed critical funding allocations for community-based organizations (CBOs) during their meeting on September 22, 2025. The board confirmed that most CBOs received funding at their requested levels, a positive outcome attributed to the efforts of the county commission and the mayor in restoring financial support.
The meeting highlighted a request from board member Laura Norito, who was unable to attend, to open discussions on CBO funding allocations. While the board acknowledged the current stability in funding, they emphasized the importance of ongoing dialogue regarding future financial support for these organizations.
Dan Wall, representing the board of trustees, provided updates on funding decisions, including the cancellation of a previous request for proposals (RFP) for new CBOs due to budget constraints. This decision reflects the board's focus on managing non-recurring funding effectively while ensuring that historically funded organizations continue to receive support.
Concerns were raised about specific organizations, such as the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI), which some members noted had not been fully restored to previous funding levels. The board agreed to address these discrepancies in future discussions, ensuring that all organizations receive fair consideration.
As the meeting concluded, members expressed a commitment to collaborate and resolve any outstanding funding issues, reinforcing the board's dedication to supporting Miami-Dade's community health initiatives. The board's proactive approach signals a continued focus on enhancing behavioral health resources in the county, with further discussions planned for upcoming meetings.