The Office of Community Engagement (OCE) connects the Department of Mental Health (DMH), and our affiliates, to community, with an emphasis on historically underserved and/or under-represented communities, to improve their experience with and enhance their knowledge of the Department. The Office achieves this by:
- Connecting with, and learning about, community-based organizations (CBOs) and individuals within the community who are committed to improving health within their communities;
- Building and fostering relationships with individuals and organizations to establish reciprocal, and mutually beneficial partnerships;
- Amplifying experiences and voices that have been historically marginalized;
- Serving equitably communities equitably by having knowledge of resources that represent them;
- Inspiring others to serve the full person.
In 2020, the Department of Mental Health (DMH) established the Office of Community Engagement (OCE) out of a growing need and desire to connect with members of the community to promote mental wellness education and access, with a special emphasis on historically underserved and under-represented populations.
Mission and Vision
Mission:
The Commonwealth of Massachusetts is healthier and stronger through the development of intentional, strategic activities by the DMH Office of Community Engagement and partners through the provision and promotion of mental wellness education and awareness.
Vision:
People and communities are being identified, engaged, and supported effectively.
Daniela Harrigan (She, Her, Hers) - Director of Community Engagement
The Office is led by Daniela Harrigan (She/Her), the Director of Community Engagement (OCE). Daniela is a Massachusetts Native with over 20 years’ experience leading in government, non-profit, and academic fields. In this role, Daniela builds and partners with individuals and organizations to promote mental wellness awareness, education, and treatment with an emphasis on historically underserved communities to transform how people experience the department.
Prior to her tenure at DMH, Daniela worked as the Director of Marketing and Outreach for the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission (MRC); the Department of Urban Studies & Planning at MIT; and at Rosie’s Place where she witnessed the prevalence and impacts of harm, and the mistrust of institutions and systems.
Daniela obtained a bachelor’s in Legal Studies from the University of Massachusetts at Amherst, earned a Master of Criminal Justice from Suffolk University, and is currently pursuing a Masters of Divinity, and a certificate in Religion and Conflict Transformation from Boston University School of Theology.