In behavioral health and crisis response, change often begins quietly. A conversation. A shared idea. A lesson carried from one community to another. Over the past year, Santé has seen firsthand how even small contributions can spark ripples far beyond state lines, and, in some cases, across oceans.
While most of our work is grounded in the day-to-day needs of Maryland and North Carolina, this year offered unexpected moments where our experience became part of something larger. Staff were invited to speak at international and national conferences, participate in global conversations on disability and crisis care, and share insights shaped by years of on-the-ground work.
These moments happened because the work we do is real, practical, and deeply human. Humanity is something every system, in every country, is trying to better understand.
Sharing Local Experience on a Global Stage
One of the most meaningful milestones came when our CEO, Michelle Grigsby-Hackett, and Rock Creek Foundation’s Najla Wortham were invited to the 10th World Disability & Rehabilitation Conference in Thailand. Hosted by TIIKM Conferences, the gathering brought together leaders from around the world who are focused on improving the lives of people with disabilities.
Michelle described it as an experience she will never forget.
“It was an honor to share what’s happening in the United States in the world of disabilities,” she reflected. “The opportunity to exchange ideas with global leaders, innovators, and advocates was truly inspiring.”
Their presentation focused on the evolving landscape of behavioral health and developmental disability services in the U.S., particularly the shift toward person-centered, equitable, and interconnected systems. From the challenges faced by individuals navigating fragmented supports to the progress being made through peer-led wellness programs and trauma-informed crisis services, the conversation echoed themes heard around the globe.
“What struck me most,” Michelle shared, “was that while our contexts may differ, our goals are shared: to ensure that every person has the dignity, access, and support they need to thrive.”
Returning home with fresh perspectives, our leadership carried lessons that are already influencing how we strengthen our own programs and partnerships.
Lifting Crisis Care Conversations Nationwide
Global connections were just one part of this year’s momentum. Across the country, Santé staff were invited into national conversations shaping the future of crisis response in America.
At CrisisCon2025, CEO Michelle Grigsby-Hackett, and Director of Eastern Shore Crisis Response, Tina-Marie Brown, represented Santé among hundreds of leaders who are rewriting what crisis care can look like. They shared what we’ve learned from building mobile crisis teams, operating 988 support, and walking alongside individuals during their most vulnerable moments.
“This year’s conference was an incredible opportunity to connect with leaders from across the country,” Tina-Marie shared afterward. “When we talk about what’s working, and what needs to change, we build stronger systems of care for everyone.”
Around the same time, Allison and Tamala of Baltimore County Crisis Response System, represented Santé at the Crisis Continuum Conference in Indianapolis. This is a national gathering of innovators working to strengthen crisis systems nationwide. Their participation reinforced something we hold central to our mission: collaborative learning is essential, and no single organization has all the answers.
Their voices helped highlight the importance of compassionate, accessible care and the role of strong partnerships in transforming crisis response.
Their presence at these conferences also underscored Santé’s belief that good ideas should never stay siloed. When we learn from others, and share what we’ve learned, every community benefits.
Small Organization. Big Impact. Shared Purpose.
For a nonprofit rooted in community partnership, these conference moments were affirmations that what we are building matters. Not because it is perfect, but because it is grounded in real life. Real crisis calls, real home visits and real conversations with people who need a safe place to land.
Each conference, whether across the U.S. or across the world, reminded us that care is a universal language, connection is a universal need and dignity is a universal right.
Sometimes the solutions we’re creating in Maryland or North Carolina speak to a question someone is wrestling with in Thailand, Indiana, or another corner of the world.
Looking Ahead
Santé will always be a community-first organization. Our work begins with the people who call 988 in the middle of the night, the families we meet in living rooms, the individuals who walk into our wellness centers hoping for a fresh start.
This year reminded us that community impact doesn’t stop at the county line. When we share our experiences, the ripples extend farther than we imagine.
We’re grateful for every invitation, every partnership, and every opportunity to learn and contribute. And we carry forward a simple belief: meaningful change begins small… and grows when we grow together.