Innovative programming in a community service center.

A Community Center in a downtown urban area offers comprehensive services that provide continuity and choice to homeless and poor people. Emphasis is on outreach, through a Day Treatment Program for severely, persistently mentally ill homeless, a mobile outreach team, and neighborhood services, and/or employment, including a restaurant and Employment Reintegration Program. The Center is an example of how professionals, community and business leaders, and citizens can unite to assist clients and how programs can evolve from clients' requests and participation in services. The Center's programming can be followed in any community in this health care reform era.