Mental illness is defined as a chemical imbalance in the brain which impairs the thought process but not intelligence. People suffering from this illness may experience delusions, hallucinations, extreme mood swings, poor concentration, and impaired functioning. With proper medication, the symptoms can be stabilized, and individuals can lead productive lives in the community.

There are 2.8 million people who have schizophrenia in this country (cost 80 billion per year: hospitalization, lost wages, disability payments) and 2 million individuals who endure bipolar disorder/manic depressive illness (cost $16 billion per year). With the availability of many new medications thousands of the individuals with psyciatric disabilities are conquering their illness on a daily basis.

Kadima is a non-profit mental health agency which provides residential, clinical, vocational, and other rehabilitative services to adults with mental illness and their famiiies. Kadima was established in 1984 when members of the Detroit Jewish community became concerned about the inhumane, substandard environments in which many Jewish individuals with mental illness were living. Kadima has maintained a long term commitment to improving the quality of life for those with mental illness and has demonstrated a strong commitment to professional excellence. Kadima is licensed by the State of Michigan, Department of Social Services. The agency receives funding from Oakland County Community Mental Health, although only 10% of Kadima's clients are funded by these public dollars. 90% of the people served by our agency are subsidized by Kadima's fundraising efforts within the Jewish community. Kadima is considered a model agency across the country. Kadima's clients are between 25 - 100 years of age; 99% are of Jewish background.

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