The rest of the story on the HSC

To the Editor:

With the upcoming change in how Vilas, Forest and Oneida counties will provide mental and behavioral health services and the subsequent end of The Human Service Center, it is important to note that not all facets of the situation have been reported on by local news outlets. While great detail was recently provided about bad practices at the agency from more than 15 years ago (an era from which none of the management and very few employees remain), precious little has been published about the ways in which the agency has positively impacted local communities. 

The HSC runs multiple different programs across three counties which provide services and assistance to some of the people who need it most: families with children who have disabilities, adults and youth with mental health concerns, people fighting addiction, those at risk of suicide, and more. All of the programs are subject to state audit, and the number which pass with few or no deficiencies speaks to the efficacy of these programs and the competency of those running them.  

The HSC’s programs have helped people access mental health services when there is a dearth of providers in our community. They have aided families struggling to overcome the challenges facing them. And they have partnered with local law enforcement and medical providers to save lives. I have worked at the HSC for eight years, and in that time I have known many dedicated employees who have demonstrated compassion, empathy and kindness to people who too often are met with shame, pity or misunderstanding. I have seen hardworking people find creative solutions to help a person in need. And I have spoken with the individuals whose lives have improved with the help of caring employees.

Obviously, no person or agency is perfect. The counties have their reasons for pursuing a restructure: some legitimate and some less so. Hopefully the changes implemented will eventually result in an improvement of services.  But to portray the HSC as corrupt, or its employees as incompetent or uncaring, is disingenuous and wrong. 

Given the amount of negative press the HSC has received in recent months, its employees deserve public acknowledgement: their hard work and compassion has positively impacted the lives of many.  

Chris Katzke