The Power of Networking Across the START Network

By NCSS Executive Director Julie Lago 

The power of connection is not simply in who we know, it is in how we show up for one another with shared purpose.

Recently, I had the pleasure of celebrating and supporting the launch of Philadelphia START, a milestone that wonderfully reflects the mission of the National Center for START Services® and the START model. Community members and professionals from across the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania gathered to learn about the intentional work that has gone into developing the Philadelphia START team, and, looking forward, the impact START services will continue to have on the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and mental health needs, as well as those who support them. 

What stood out most was not just the program itself, but the connections forming around it.

The START model is built on the belief that complex needs require coordinated, informed, and compassionate systems of care. That belief was palpable in the room. Attendees shared a clear and collective dedication to inclusive communities—communities where individuals with disabilities and mental health needs are understood, supported, and valued. It was inspiring to connect with so many professionals and advocates committed to strengthening systems through collaboration rather than fragmentation.

Marcus Appolon

A powerful extension of that collaboration was a visit to the Temple University Health System Health Crisis Response Center. I am deeply grateful to Marcus Appolon, BSN, RN, PMH-BC, and the Crisis Response Center team for the generous tour and for the invitation that grew out of a simple first meeting of like-minded colleagues at the Philadelphia START launch. After my trip, I had the chance to interview Marcus for a more in-depth discussion on our networking experience. Click here to watch our discussion!

Seeing firsthand how intentional, multidisciplinary approaches are being implemented to enhance patient-centered outcomes was both energizing and affirming. Clinical expertise, lived experience, and system coordination are not operating in silos, they are woven together. This model does more than respond to crisis; it strengthens community connections and builds pathways to care that are thoughtful, collaborative, and person-centered.

This is the power of connection.

When programs like START align with crisis response systems, healthcare providers, families, and community partners, the impact multiplies. This is the power of linkage. We move from isolated interventions to integrated systems of support. We shift from reactive responses to proactive, relationship-based care. And most importantly, we create environments where people with IDD and mental health needs are not navigating systems alone and are represented in all systems.

In my commitment to bring the stories of START to our network and the greater community, I met with Marcus following my return to NH, reflecting on his takeaways from the Philadelphia START program launch and the importance of community connection and linkage. Thank you, Marcus, for your leadership, vision, and commitment to reimagining what crisis response can look like when the people served and systems collaboration are at the center of program design.

The Philadelphia START launch was more than an event. It was a reflection of what is possible when connection, expertise, and compassion come together in service of inclusive communities. Congratulations to the Philadelphia START team. The commitment, dedication, and vision shared by this team and their partner organizations truly shined and will continue to be felt in the work brought to their Philadelphia neighbors.