Why We’re Here
MISSION: To inspire action that eradicates stigma and eliminates financial barriers to accessing mental health care.
OUR VISION: A world where everyone has access to the mental health care and health care they need to lead full, dignified, and healthy lives.
Our Approach
Values guide every decision we make and every action we take.
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We prioritize sensitivity and a belief in the common good when discussing and highlighting personal and systemic challenges.
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We listen to understand – and never cast judgement.
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We elevate stories that illuminate the need for health care system and mental health care reform.
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We see the world through the necessary opportunity of cross-sector and cross-system cooperation.
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We are committed to learning, researching, adapting, and growing.
Unfortunate Realities
We believe universal access to health care and mental health care is one of the single-most important investments the United States can make – if for no other reason that it would save $450 billion in health care costs annually.
No one should avoid getting any care they need because of their financial means. It is estimated nearly 1 in 12 U.S. adults owe medical debt, which is believed to total at least $220 billion. This is a systemic and moral failure.
Recent studies show a single-payer system could be funded with less money than employers and consumers pay through their current premiums and existing government-related funding. Yet, America remains the only developed country in the world without publicly funded health care, a fact as shocking as it is immoral.
More on Pam’s Legacy
Pam, the inspiration for this organization and mother of its founder, died of colon cancer at age 59 approximately three years after suffering a serious mental health emergency. A lifelong Wisconsinite, she dreamed of becoming a teacher and was a few credits away from earning her bachelor’s degree. However, continued challenges with mental health prevented that accomplishment.
Pam represents the power of the Edelweiss, which is a centerpiece of our public image: sensitive and loving but one who found the strength to persevere through many challenges - those with bipolar disorder, physical health, a cancer diagnosis, and experiences with the disconnect between mental health and health care systems who are treating the same patient.
The Alliance honors Pam through a steadfast belief in our mission, vision, values and hope for the future. It’s centered on empathy, compassion and fierce dedication to this cause. We work to remove barriers, reduce stigma, and advance policies that put people over profits and compassion over corporate interests.