For over 50 years, Encompass Community Services has been a lifeline for thousands of individuals and families across Santa Cruz County. But while many recognize the name, few understand the full breadth of vital programs Encompass provides impacting children, teens, families, and adults across our community.
From early childhood education to mental health counseling, substance use recovery and housing support, Encompass operates more than 25 programs that help people access the care and stability they need to thrive. And in a time of growing need and shrinking public resources, this trusted nonprofit is rising to meet the challenge with unwavering commitment.
A Local Leader in Behavioral Health & Recovery
Founded in 1973, Encompass has grown to become the largest community-based nonprofit health and human services provider in Santa Cruz County. In 2023 alone, the agency served nearly 5,000 individuals through the work of almost 400 dedicated staff members. Encompass’ behavioral health teams provide trauma-informed, culturally inclusive mental health and substance use disorder services that help people navigate recovery, regain stability, and rebuild their lives. Encompass pairs clinical care with case management, family support, peer mentoring, and housing navigation to ensure long-term success.
They are helping our neighbors achieve a quality of life they never thought possible. “My experience with Encompass’ Alto counseling center has helped me achieve what I never thought possible – sobriety. My life has completely changed through this continual process of recovery. My counselor at Encompass has been greatly responsible for bringing integrity, joy, peace, and happiness into my life. Thank you for the compassion and training you’ve given to me that I wouldn’t even give myself. You never gave up on me.”, said one Encompass client.
Supporting Our Youngest Residents
The foundation of a healthy community starts with its children. Through a countywide network of early childhood education centers and partnerships with families, Encompass’ Head Start program provides safe, nurturing learning environments that support cognitive, emotional, and social development during the critical early years.
Encompass served more than 250 families last year, many from low-income households or experiencing other barriers to access. For these families, Head Start and Early Head Start aren’t just programs — they’re pathways out of poverty and a critical first step towards long-term well-being.
A Growing Presence in Santa Cruz County: What’s Next
Encompass continues to garner support from community partners to grow their vital services. The organization is actively building a new, state-of-the-art Sí Se Puede Behavioral Health Center in Watsonville, which will expand capacity and integrate residential and outpatient treatment under one roof. It’s slated to open in 2026 and will be a model for recovery services across the region.
The agency also secured major grant awards recently, including a Kaiser Permanente grant to launch a Health and Housing Rental Assistance initiative for clients at risk of homelessness, as well as funding through the state’s Behavioral Health Continuum Infrastructure Program (BHCIP) and Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT) Access Points project to expand substance use recovery services.
How You Can Help
As federal and state funding landscapes become more unpredictable, Encompass continues to fill the gaps, but community support is critical. Donations from our Santa Cruz County community as well as advocacy with elected officials means more than ever before.
“We’ve been a pillar in the community for over 50 years, and we’re ready to serve Santa Cruz County for 50 more,” says CEO Shellee Stopera. “But we can’t do it without the support of our neighbors. Whether it’s a donation, spreading the word, or advocating with government representatives, every action helps us reach more people in need.”
Visit https://www.encompasscs.org to explore programs, impact stories, make a donation, and stay updated on important legislation that impacts Encompass programs and our community. Together, we can build a healthier, more resilient Santa Cruz County—for everyone.
