Substance Use Disorder, Behavioral Health, and Homelessness: Community Solutions for King County
This informative forum, hosted by Valley Cities Behavioral Health Care, brings together business leaders, nonprofit partners, healthcare professionals, and community stakeholders to examine the growing impact of substance use disorder, and co-occurring mental health conditions on homelessness, workforce stability, and community well-being in the King County and Seattle area.As the substance use crisis continues to accelerate, its effects extend far beyond public health systems directly influencing employee health, workplace productivity, housing instability, public safety, and the regional economy. Individuals experiencing substance use disorder and untreated mental illness are disproportionately represented among people experiencing homelessness, creating complex challenges that require coordinated, cross-sector solutions. Through a whole-person, whole-community approach, Valley Cities delivers comprehensive, evidence-based behavioral health care, including medical detox, substance use disorder treatment, mental health services, and integrated support for individuals with co-occurring disorders. These services are supported by housing navigation, employment services, veteran-focused care, outreach to people experiencing homelessness, and mobile clinics serving underserved and rural areas of King County.
At this event, attendees will:
- Gain a clearer understanding of how fentanyl and opioid use disorders intersect with mental health conditions and contribute to homelessness in the Seattle–King County region.
- Learn how integrated behavioral health care addressing both substance use disorder and mental illness leads to improved recovery outcomes and community stability.
- Explore the direct and indirect impacts of behavioral health challenges on employers, workforce participation, and regional economic health.
- Identify opportunities for collaboration between businesses, nonprofits, healthcare providers, and public-sector partners to expand access to care, reduce stigma, and strengthen prevention and recovery networks.
Designed for business leaders, employers, nonprofit executives, policymakers, and community partners, this forum offers a strategic perspective on why investing in behavioral health solutions is not only a public good—but a business and economic imperative. Together, we can support recovery, reduce homelessness, and build a healthier, more resilient King County.