The Village Integrated Services Agency is a comprehensive program for people with serious mental illnesses (clients are called members of the Village). Its mission, developed by staff and members together, is to "support and teach adults with psychiatric disabilities to recognize their strengths and power to successfully live, learn, socialize and work in the community." The Village integrates services and support, opportunity and encouragement.

The Village was established by a grant from the California Department of Mental Health to the Mental Health Association in Los Angeles County, a private, nonprofit organization. It is one of three pilot projects designed to change the way mental health services are provided in California.

As part of the pilot, the Village is testing a capitated funding system. It receives a set amount for each member and is responsible for providing or purchasing all the services the member needs. This funding system does not jeopardize members' Supplemental Security Income, MediCal or other entitlements.

The Village's service philosophy centers on strengthening member's abilities while lessening their disabilities. Services are determined by the needs of members, not the limitations of a service system. The Village tailors its services to meet each member's distinct employment, housing, psychiatric, health, recreation and financial choices.

Relationships between Village members and staff are grounded in mutual respect and equality. There are no hierarchical "helper to helpee" roles; members are equal partners in services. Staff are "coaches," rather than therapists. They stand supportively with members as members make decisions and take responsibility for moving into their own apartments, starting new jobs or returning to school.

At the Village, services are built around a team concept. Each of the Village's three teams is made up of a psychiatrist, licensed clinical social worker, psychiatric nurse and two psychosocial specialists. Within the teams, members have a Personal Service Coordinator, the "life coach" who helps them identify and pursue their goals. The teams are complemented by the Village's resource specialists in employment, community integration, money management and substance abuse.

The Village gives members with new options for dealing with their illnesses, gaining independence and achieving personal aspirations.