Who We Are

The Resilient Foundations Project is dedicated to strengthening the support systems of individuals living with severe mental illnesses by empowering the caregivers, families, and communities who stand beside them. We believe that when caregivers are informed, supported, and connected, they are better equipped to provide compassionate and sustainable care that ultimately creates stronger, healthier communities. 

 

Our team brings together years of experience in mental health, advocacy, and education to bridge gaps in understanding and access. Through workshops, resources, and community engagement, we provide families and caregivers with FREE,  practical tools and evidence-based education, because every person deserves equitable access to mental health knowledge and support.

 

We support the residents of Allegheny, Beaver, and Washington Counties. 

 

Our Mission

 

The Resilient Foundations Project's mission is to address the gap that exists in the mental healthcare system where caregivers and family members of individuals diagnosed with severe mental illnesses are often left without the support they need.  Our goal is to reduce stigma, improve caregiver confidence and resilience, and strengthen community capacity to support some of our most vulnerable residents in Allegheny, Washington, and Beaver Counties.

 

 

Our Values

 

  • Resiliency
    We honor the strength it takes to care for a loved one living with mental illness and provide resources that nurture endurance through challenges.

  • Compassion
    We lead with empathy, recognizing the humanity in every caregiver, family member, and individual impacted by mental illness.

  • Advocacy
    We amplify caregiver and family voices, working to dismantle stigma and create equitable access to mental health resources and support.

  • Education
    We believe knowledge is power. By equipping caregivers with evidence-based tools, we strengthen their ability to provide effective, supportive, and informed care.


 

Meet Our Founder

Dr. Colby Russell is the Founder and Executive Director of The Resilient Foundations Project.

 

Dr. Russell is a dedicated mental health professional with over 17 years of experience in both community-based and inpatient settings. Specializing in supporting individuals with severe mental illnesses, she has always been passionate about addressing mental health disparities in Black communities and de-stigmatizing mental illness.

 

With a Doctorate in Health Administration, Dr. Russell focuses on research-driven outcomes and evidence-based practices to improve mental health equity. Her work centers on ensuring that individuals receive compassionate, effective care while challenging systemic barriers that disproportionately impact marginalized populations.

 

Her dedication to addressing mental health disparities led her to the understanding of how important it is in recovery for an individual to have a strong support system. Her passion birthed this project that is designed to help families and caregivers build resilience and understand how to navigate the mental healthcare system.