Job fair aims to attract diverse mental health care team members

Minnesota’s mental health care crisis is real, and it’s especially pronounced in communities of color. July has been designated as National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month. While mental health conditions do not discriminate on the basis of race, background, and identity can make access to treatment more difficult.

It’s estimated that one in five Americans experience a mental health disorder. Statistics show that only 39% of Black adults with any mental illness are treated, compared to 52% of White adults.

Coming out of the pandemic era, people of all ages from our community have sought and are seeking help in recognizing and dealing with their mental health concerns and diagnoses.

Prairie Care, with seven locations in the Minneapolis/St. Paul metro area is in an expansion mode to provide access to a full continuum of care and treatment for all Minnesotans, from outpatient services to intense short-term needs to inpatient care.

“We are expanding our inpatient mental health hospital in Brooklyn Park, opening the doors this fall, to meet the increased needs of youth and young adults from aged 18 to 25,” said Allison Gibbons, talent acquisition manager.

The expansion will require additional staff.

Prairie Care is holding a job fair on July 18 to connect with those interested in joining its team in a variety of roles, from clinical to support staff. Prairie Care is looking to hire therapists, registered nurses, psych techs, social workers, medical receptionists, environmental service aids, security officers, and more.

“We are seeking people from all different educational backgrounds. Some clinical positions require advanced degrees or advanced licensure. Other positions need a high school diploma, GED, or some college,” Gibbons said. “We have tuition reimbursement; they can get their foot in at an entry-level role, get their training, and take their career to the next level.”

It’s also been a time when many people are re-evaluating their careers and considering work that they find more meaningful to the community.

“We look for people who are passionate about helping people with their mental health. We hear a lot about people who are impacted themselves or have had someone in their family with mental health issues and they are drawn to a career with purpose,” Gibbons said.

“So many people in the mental health profession have that compassion and drive to help others. We love people with that desire,” she added.

With a renewed DEI priority, Prairie Care is seeking job candidates who reflect their diverse patient population.

As one of the nation’s largest providers of psychiatric services to children, adolescents, adults, and their families, Prairie Care offers competitive wages and benefits, with career advancement opportunities and a collaborative environment with a team of caring professionals.

The job fair is July 18, from 11 am to 3 pm at 4510 West 77th Street in Edina. In an open house setting, candidates will be able to have their questions answered. Registration is preferred. Click here to register.