Approach
M+R collaborated with Fountain House to amplify its mission and drive systemic change in mental health care. Initially, M+R focused on integrating mental health into national conversations, linking it to the pandemic and racial justice issues following George Floyd’s murder. This effort culminated in the Care Responders campaign, a multi-state initiative advocating for health-first approaches to mental health crises instead of criminalization.
In 2022, M+R expanded its scope to launch the nationwide Healing Minds, Powering Communities campaign, aimed at unifying local and national partners around the goal of ensuring consistent access to community-based mental health care. Through strategic media outreach, M+R positioned Fountain House as a leader in mental health advocacy, securing coverage in high-profile outlets like The Washington Post, NBC News, and USA Today at pivotal moments in policy and cultural conversations.
Beyond media strategy, M+R focused on empowering Fountain House’s network of allies to sustain advocacy efforts independently. By conducting tailored trainings, offering one-on-one coaching, and developing advocacy toolkits, M+R equipped partners across the country with the skills to amplify their own media, social media, and organizing efforts. This approach not only elevated Fountain House’s profile but also built a movement capable of driving long-term change in mental health care.
