In the late 1970s, individuals with serious mental illness (SMI) were often overlooked in America’s workforce agenda. They were perceived as too damaged to function in the mainstream economy. However, over the next two decades, there was a shift in understanding mental illness, with employment being recognized as essential for recovery and individual health. The development of the Individualized Placement and Support (IPS) model in the 1990s further promoted the integration of individuals with SMI into mainstream workplaces.
Today, a new phase of workforce initiatives is emerging, focusing on engaging major employers to create new workplace structures that facilitate the hiring and retention of individuals with SMI. One Mind, a mental health nonprofit based in Napa, California, is at the forefront of these efforts. They are gearing up to launch their largest employment project, One Mind Launchpad, which aims to pilot new strategies for increasing employment opportunities for individuals with SMI.
The prevailing model of job placement for individuals with SMI is the Individual Placement and Support (IPS) model, which emphasizes rapid job placement with mental health support. This approach, developed by Dr. Robert Drake in the early 1990s, has been widely adopted across the globe. Despite its success, the IPS model faces challenges in terms of cost and employer engagement.
Building on the IPS model, One Mind Launchpad, led by Brandon Staglin, aims to engage employers and scale employment services for individuals with significant mental health conditions. The project will kick off with a pilot phase in January 2026, partnering with companies to tailor mental health strategies and support individualized to each worker. The project will track outcomes over a five-year period, with the goal of serving 14,700 individuals with SMI in the first five years.
The interplay between serious mental illness and workplace culture is a key focus of One Mind Launchpad. By involving employers at all levels of the workforce, training executives through lived experiences, and measuring outcomes transparently, the project aims to create a supportive environment for individuals with SMI to thrive in their careers.
The power of employment for individuals with SMI is evident in the story of Brandon Staglin, who battled schizophrenia throughout his life. Finding meaningful employment enabled him to manage his condition and lead a fulfilling life. One Mind Launchpad seeks to replicate this success for others with SMI, providing them with the support they need to thrive in the workplace.
In conclusion, One Mind Launchpad represents a significant step towards increasing employment opportunities for individuals with SMI and changing workplace culture to be more inclusive and supportive. By leveraging the lessons learned from the IPS model and engaging employers in a holistic approach, the project aims to empower individuals with SMI to lead fulfilling and productive lives.
