Owatonna, MN – January 1st, 2025 – With nearly six decades of providing compassionate, innovative mental health services, South Central Human Relations Center is proud to announce its rebranding as Spero, a name inspired by the Latin word for “hope.” This new identity reflects the organization’s enduring commitment to empowering individuals, breaking barriers to access, and fostering resilience across southern Minnesota.
Since its founding in 1964 as a small mental health clinic, Spero has grown into a leading behavioral health organization, offering a wide range of services including individual and group therapy, psychiatry, case management, and integrated care for co-occurring mental health and substance use disorders. Key milestones in its rich history include:
- The launch of intensive residential treatment at Safe Harbour in 1983.
- Expanding to provide Adult Rehabilitation Mental Health Services (ARMHS) in 2003.
- Introducing the Dual Recovery Program in 2007, a pioneering approach to treating mental illness and substance use disorders together. (Now named Substand Use and Recovery.)
- Opening Youngdahl Living in 2011, a 16-unit supportive housing facility addressing housing barriers for vulnerable adults.
- Mobile Crisis Response added in 2015.
- Becoming a Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHC) in 2021
Breaking Barriers to Access
Despite its success, Spero recognizes that many people remain unaware of available mental health resources until they face a crisis. The rebranding initiative is a step toward addressing this challenge by improving public awareness and making services more accessible and inclusive.
“Spero isn’t just a name—it’s a reflection of our mission to inspire hope and empower change,” said Michele Merxbauer. “Our goal is to ensure that individuals feel supported and empowered to seek help before their challenges escalate. We’re here to meet them where they are and provide the resources they need to thrive.”
Looking Forward
The transition to Spero marks a new chapter in the organization’s history, one that emphasizes collaboration, innovation, and community impact. By partnering with local clinics, public health agencies, and other community organizations, Spero is poised to expand its reach and continue providing holistic, person-centered care.
“As Spero, we honor our strong foundation while embracing the future,” Michele continued. “This rebrand is an opportunity to not only build awareness but to ensure that our services remain a vital resource for the people and communities we serve.”
For more information about Spero and its services, visit www.speromn.org or contact Michele Merxbauer at michele.merxbauer@schrc.com
About Spero
Founded in 1964 as South Central Human Relations Center, Spero is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing accessible, innovative mental health care to individuals and families across southern Minnesota. Through services like therapy, psychiatry, case management, and housing support, Spero empowers individuals to overcome challenges and build brighter futures.
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