Mental illness is defined as a chemical imbalance in the brain which impairs the thought process but not intelligence. People suffering from this illness may experience delusions, hallucinations, extreme mood swings, poor concentration, and impaired functioning. With proper medication, the symptoms can be stabilized, and individuals can lead productive lives in the community.

There are 2.8 million people who have schizophrenia in this country (cost 80 billion per year: hospitalization, lost wages, disability payments) and 2 million individuals who endure bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness (cost $16 billion per year). With the availability of many new medications thousands of the individuals with psyciatric disabilities are conquering their illness on a daily basis.

Kadima is a non-profit mental health agency which provides residential, clinical, vocational and other rehabilitative services to adults with mental illness and their families. Kadima was established in 1984, when members of the Detroit Jewish community became concerned about the inhumane, substandard environments in which many Jewish individuals with mental illness were living. Kadima has maintained a long-term commitment to improving the quality of life for those with mental illness and has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional excellence. Kadima is licensed by the Michigan Department of Social Services. The agency receives funding from Oakland County Community Mental Health, although only 20% of Kadima clients are funded by these public dollars. In June of 2006, Kadima received a three year accreditation by CARF, The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities. CARF recognized the exemplary performance of Kadima staff in implementing its outpatient treatment program to provide the highest quality care for Kadima clients. Kadima clients are between 18 - 100 years of age. We have recently developed the Kadima Youth Initiative, a Family Support/Advocacy Group for parents of children and youth age 8 - 18 with severe emotional disorders.

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