Village Improvement Association

Since 1895, the mission of the Village Improvement Association of Doylestown (VIA) has been to enhance the health and well-being of central Bucks County and surrounding communities. The women of the VIA founded Doylestown Hospital, and for over a century were instrumental in its operation. After transferring stewardship of the Hospital to Penn Medicine last year, the VIA is turning its attention to another set of community needs. Mental well-being is at the top of their list.

The VIA has had discussions with community members and mental health professionals to better understand the needs of area residents and has launched   REACH, a new initiative designed to create greater awareness of and access to mental well-being resources. “The REACH initiative is one way we’re strengthening our focus on education, awareness, and resources that promote mental health and well-being,” says VIA President Kathleen Krick. “We believe that this simple word expresses who we are and where we are going. It signifies that we are extending our REACH, helping others to REACH connection and wellness, and that the VIA will REACH out, REACH in, REACH forward.”

As one of its early REACH initiatives, the VIA has supported the Lenape Valley Foundation’s new Bright Path Center for Behavioral Health Stabilization with a $50,000 donation. The center is scheduled to open later this year and is being recognized as a national model for mental health crisis care for children and adults. The VIA is also partnering with the Lenape Valley Foundation to conduct QPR suicide prevention training for area residents during the month of January. 

To learn more about the REACH initiative, please visit www.viareach.org. The VIA always welcomes new women who are passionate about their mission. For more information about this fabulous group of changemakers, please visit the VIA website, www.via-doylestown.org.