Toward the articulation of mission: Heeding the ELCA's call for affordable mental health care and authentic diversity while guiding students' journeys toward counseling and clinical vocations

Abstract

I describe community counseling clinics embedded with a Lutheran University and aligned with Evangelical Lutheran Church in America (ELCA) values. Our clinics, like many others, serve the underserved and are often dependent upon external support. To ensure operational stability, they must articulate their mission alignment with host institutions and funders. In so doing, funders readily see how their values are enacted and embodied within the supported program. Examples of mission alignment, data supporting alignment, and the benefits of alignment for the program, funder, and those served are provided.