Because networking was a primary goal expressed by the initial creators of the organization, meetings are structured but informal enough to provide opportunities for member-to-member connections.

While the Network’s by-laws dictate that it does have a Board of Directors, the Network is committed to having the full membership serve as the decision-making body. All dues-paying member organizations are allowed one vote. The group meets on a regular basis (the second Wednesday afternoon of each month) to consider all items of interest. The Board meets as needed and generally no more than once a year, generally for the purpose of reviewing and focusing specific agenda items for time saving purposes, prior to bringing them to the full group for discussion/action.

Currently the Network in working on a major workforce development initiative, “The Pathways Project”, a multi-year effort focused on increasing the number of persons entering one of the many behavioral health workforce career educational tracks. Beginning with an awareness-building curriculum at the high school level through special educational and experiential opportunities in post secondary and graduate level educational programs, The Pathways Project seeks to increase the number of individuals who choose careers in mental health and substance abuse service provision.

The Network, in partnership with Mental Health America of Greater Houston, is also exploring affordable mechanisms to address the increasing crisis in access to psychiatric care for both adults and children in the community.