Our Work
The Tapestry team serves the community in several ways. We provide numerous trainings and participate in outreach events. We partner with many agencies across the county to support communication and connections. Over the past twelve years, we have had the opportunity to bring nationally recognized trainers, speakers and programs to Chautauqua County.
While Tapestry is not a provider, we fund several community partners to provide services throughout the system of care. All services funded with federal dollars are complimentary to existing services – not supplanting and not competing. All funded programming includes a focus on sustainability to ensure planning for future success and long-term viability of programming. The goal of our system of care initiative is to “raise the bar” for all providers of care and service to be of high-quality, connected and integrated, and holistic in meeting the needs of children and families.
FAQ
What is Chautauqua Tapestry?
How do I get my child connected with Tapestry?
Chautauqua Tapestry
Town of Chautauqua Municipal Building
2 Academy Street, Suite 202
Mayville, NY 14757
Telephone: (716) 753-4507
Toll Free: 1-888-290-2381
Fax: (716) 753-7208
I have an older child, are they still able to get services? Is there an age cut off?
With the newest SAMHSA grant, Chautauqua Tapestry’s overall goal is to improve the mental health outcomes for children and youth, birth through age 21, at risk for or with serious emotional disturbances (SED), and their families.
Services are not provided directly by Tapestry staff. The funding supports service provision, referrals and training.
What is System of Care (SOC)?
System of Care, also called SOC, embraces the idea that youth and families can and should have an active role in how systems serve them. This includes services in the community that are based on the youth and family’s strengths and needs, as identified by the youth and family. A System of Care addresses the needs of the youth and family through effective family, youth, and system partnerships and collaboration.
What are the core values of SOC?
Family driven and youth guided, with the strengths and needs of the youth and family determining the types and mix of services and supports that best fit their needs. Community based, with services and the management of those services resting within a supportive framework at the community level. Culturally and linguistically competent, with programs and services that reflect the culture and language of the population served. This will ensure access to services based on each youth and their family’s unique needs and eliminate gaps in services.
What is a system?
“System” refers to a public system that you receive services from; that can be the public school system, health-care providers, behavioral health-care providers, juvenile justice, Social Security, and many more. There are a lot of different systems that provide different types of services to youth and families, and they all have their own way of doing things.
What are the guiding principles of a SOC?
- Child Specific
- Family Driven
- Youth Guided
- Community Based
- Cultural & Language Appropriate
- Evidence Based Practices
- Least Intrusive
The process is for youth and families to receive services which are individualized and to include formal and natural supports selected by the youth and family. The ultimate goal is to improve access and expand the array of services and support for children and youth with emotional and behavioral challenges and their families with a focus on the quality and cultural responsiveness of programs.
Why does SOC matter?
SOC matters as it encourages a culture shift in the behavioral health system emphasizing the importance of youth and family voice in improving the effectiveness and relevance of services.
Press Releases
Volunteers Needed: New Sudden Loss Care Team Launching In Chautauqua County
MAYVILLE, N.Y. – The Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County is proud to announce the upcoming launch of the Sudden Loss Care Team (SLCT), a volunteer-based postvention program designed to provide immediate emotional support to families and individuals grieving the loss of a loved one to suicide.
Community Clinics at Centaur Stride Continue with Mental Health Presentation by Rachel Ludwig
SHERMAN, N.Y. – Centaur Stride’s ongoing Community Clinic series, funded through a generous grant from M&T Bank, continues this month with a special presentation by Rachel Mesmer Ludwig, Project Coordinator for the Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Director of the Chautauqua Tapestry System of Care Grant.
Rachel Ludwig Nominated for NASW-NYS Western Division Social Worker of the Year
MAYVILLE, NY – The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene and Social Services is proud to share that Rachel Mesmer Ludwig, LCSW, has been nominated for the 2025 Social Worker of the Year Award by the National Association of Social Workers – New York State (NASW-NYS) Western Division.
Hope and Healing Conference 2025
The Hope and Healing Conference 2025 is set to take place on Wednesday, June 11, 2025, from 8 AM to 5 PM. The event returns to the State University of New York, Fredonia campus. This full-day event, celebrating its 10th anniversary, promises to be a milestone gathering of change makers, professionals, and community members as we explore vital topics in mental health, substance use, suicide, and grief.
Department of Mental Hygiene Expands Youth Services with New Satellite Site
JAMESTOWN, NY – The Chautauqua County Department of Mental Hygiene (CCDMH) is proud to announce the certification and official opening of a new satellite mental health office within Southern Tier Pediatrics, P.C. This milestone marks a significant advancement in the County’s commitment to accessible, timely, and community-based behavioral health care for children and their caregivers.
Annual Owen J. Miller “Buddy Walk” Returns to Ripley on May 31
RIPLEY, N.Y. – The Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County is proud to support the annual Owen J. Miller Walk/Run, taking place on Saturday, May 31, 2025, at 10:00 a.m. at Ripley Central School (Ross Street Entrance).
Recognizing Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week
Chautauqua County is proud to recognize Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week, May 4–10, 2025—a time to celebrate the resiliency and strength of children and youth. Observed nationally and locally, the week emphasizes the importance of creating supportive communities where all children feel seen, heard, and supported.
Chautauqua County to Recognize Mental Health Awareness Month with Special Proclamations and Community Activities
MAYVILLE, N.Y. – In recognition of the importance of mental health for individuals of all ages, Chautauqua County Executive Paul M. Wendel Jr. will issue official proclamations declaring May as Mental Health Awareness Month, May 4–10 as Children’s Mental Health Acceptance Week, and May 8 as Wear Green Day in Chautauqua County.
Chautauqua Tapestry & Suicide Prevention Alliance Empower Students at Westfield Academy
From March 28 to April 4, Chautauqua Tapestry and the Suicide Prevention Alliance of Chautauqua County spent an impactful week at Westfield Academy and Central School, connecting with middle and high school students to promote mental wellness, resilience, and self-care.
Continuing The Journey: Chautauqua Tapestry’s First Year Under The 2023-2027 Grant
Chautauqua Tapestry is pleased to share a brief summary of the impactful first year of its four-year federal grant (2023-2027) awarded through the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA). This $4 million grant supports the strengthening and expansion of Chautauqua County’s system of care.
