The Rhode Island Positive Educational Partnership (RIPEP) is a six year system of care initiative funded by the Center for Mental Health Services (CMHS) and the Substance Abuse Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) and is administered by the Rhode Island Department of Children, Youth and Families (DCYF).

A system of care is a coordinated network of community-based services and supports that are organized to meet the challenges of children and youth with serious mental health needs and their families. Families and youth work in partnership with public and private organizations to design mental health services and supports that are effective, that build on the strengths of individuals, and that address each person's cultural and linguistic needs. A system of care helps children, youth and families function better at home, in school, in the community and throughout life.

May is Mental Health Month! Children's Mental Health Awareness Day- May 8th            Thriving in the Community-Promoting social, emotional health and well-being in young children and their families!  Visit our awareness campaign page to learn more.

Cultural Learning Exchange" Dinner & Dialogue-June 4th, Roger Williams Casino            RIPEP invites community and cultural leaders to come share a meal, learn about the sixteen cultural and linguistic competence mini-grant projects and dialogue next steps necessary to continue to reduce disparities that exists for children at risk for or who have mental health needs and their families.  For more information, please contact Brenda Alejo at                    B.Alejo@psnri.org or 401-467-6855.