Our History

MHS Alliance traces it roots to the late 1940s, following the World War II service of Mennonite conscientious objectors assigned to state mental hospitals. When they returned to their farms and jobs following the war, the 1,500 Mennonites who served over the four-year period shared their experiences with their congregations.

A vision for a different kind of mental health care developed and Mennonite Central Committee (MCC) formed a mental health committee-later named Mennonite Mental Health Services (MMHS). The committee approved a plan to establish "three small homes for the mentally ill" and by 1954, all three mental health facilities-now called Brook Lane Health Services in Hagerstown, Maryland, Kings View Corporation in Reedley, California, and Prairie View in Newton, Kansas -were open.

In succeeding years MMHS initiated two additional mental health centers; and three independently established centers affiliated with the group.

Through Mennonite Board of Missions (MBM) and initiatives by local congregations, Mennonites also developed retirement centers, acute care hospitals and agencies serving youth and those with developmental disabilities. In 1988, MMHS changed its name to MHS Alliance (MHS) and accepted MBM's request to guide and serve health and human service providers.

In 1994 MHS began relating directly to the three mandating denominations: Mennonite Church USA, Mennonite Brethren, and Brethren in Christ.

In 2002, representatives of MHS and denominational leaders met to envision how covenant relationships between an alliance of providers and the churches could provide more intentional connections and accountability.

The redesigned organization was launched in March 2004. Today MHS Alliance connects members with denominational partners and with each other for strength in ministry through shared mission, services and expertise.

“MHS Alliance allows us to. . .foster business relationships with other like-minded organizations.”

Ron Sawatsky, CEO
Rockhill Mennonite Community