Monterey, CA (March, 15, 2025) — 2025 proudly marks 50 years of Interim’s service to Monterey County, celebrating a legacy of housing, healing, and hope for adults living with mental illness. Since its founding in 1975, Interim has provided not only life-changing mental health services and affordable housing, but also, an enduring sense of community that empowers individuals to rebuild their lives with dignity and purpose.

A Visionary Organization Built on Connection and Care

This milestone honors the vision of advocates and leaders like Barbara L. Mitchell, who served as Executive Director from 1984 to 2023. Under her leadership, Interim grew into a model of compassion and innovation, spearheading housing and rehabilitation programs that prioritize human connection alongside practical support.

Interim has long recognized that recovery is not just about providing services but about fostering a sense of belonging. Shared spaces in its housing developments and peer-led initiatives have created opportunities for mutual support, where individuals build friendships, grow together, and find strength in a community of understanding. This focus on inclusion and empowerment remains a hallmark of Interim’s approach today.

Addressing Monterey County’s Housing Crisis with Compassion

Monterey County’s natural beauty comes with a cost—the region’s housing market is among the most expensive in the nation. For adults with serious mental illness, who often rely on government insurance programs as their primary income, securing stable housing is nearly impossible without support.

Interim has made affordable, supported housing a cornerstone of its mission, addressing this critical gap with subsidized rents and integrated services. Most residents contribute an average of $300 per month toward rent, enabling them to optimize their limited fiscal resources while accessing the resources they need to thrive.

“Housing is foundational, but it’s the comprehensive support services, accessibility to such services and resources, and fostering a healthy community that make long-term stability possible,” said Dr. Rhiyan Quiton, Interim’s current Executive Director.

Over the past five decades, Interim has developed more than 20 supportive housing projects totaling over 300 beds.  Moreover, these beds are comprised of permanent, transitional, or short-term rehabilitation beds, providing a continuum of housing options towards stability and hope to thousands of Monterey County residents.

A Half-Century of Impact and Innovation

Interim’s achievements are a testament to its holistic approach to mental health care, which combines evidence-based practices with a deep commitment to individual dignity. Among its many accomplishments, Interim has:

• Developed housing that goes beyond shelter, offering supportive communities where residents can rebuild their lives.
• Pioneered programs such as Assertive Community Treatment (ACT), crisis services, and dual-diagnosis care to meet evolving and critical needs.
• Created vocational training opportunities, empowering clients to achieve independence through educational engagement and meaningful employment.
• Reduced stigma through education, advocacy, and with peers leading the way, fostering understanding and acceptance of mental health challenges.

At the heart of these accomplishments is the belief that everyone deserves a chance to contribute, connect, and thrive. By involving clients in the planning and operation of programs, Interim ensures that their voices are heard, and their strengths celebrated. Today, over 20% of Interim’s workforce consists of individuals with lived experience in mental health recovery, further reinforcing the organization’s culture of inclusion and empowerment.

Looking Ahead to a Bright Future

As Interim celebrates this golden milestone, it remains focused on addressing the urgent need for affordable housing and comprehensive mental health services. Plans for the Marina Kai Apartments, a 23-unit supported housing development, exemplify this commitment to growth. The organization also expanded its reach in 2024 with a new office in Soledad, improving access for South County residents.

“Interim’s 50th Anniversary is a celebration of hope, resilience, compassion, and the extraordinary power of community,” said Dr. Quiton. “We’re building on our past to shape a future where everyone in Monterey County has the opportunity to thrive.”

Join the Celebration

Interim invites the community to participate in a year-long series of festivities, culminating in a fall celebration event highlighting distinguished individuals and achievements while raising funds for affordable housing initiatives. 

As Interim steps into the next 50 years, its commitment to delivering housing, healing, and hope remains stronger than ever. For more information about upcoming events and how to support Interim’s mission, visit www.interiminc.org.

About Interim, Inc.

Interim, Inc. is Monterey County’s leading provider of mental health services and affordable housing for adults living with serious mental illness. Founded in 1975, Interim offers residential treatment, social support, homeless outreach, and vocational programs designed to empower individuals to live, work, and participate fully in their communities.