Our Mission
Center Associates exists to provide high quality and comprehensive mental health services to the residents of Marshall and Hardin counties in order to enhance the lives of individuals and families.

The Center Associates is one of the longest serving mental health centers in the state. An informal meeting was held at the Lennox Auditorium on March 25, 1957. The need for community mental health services proceeded with a study group of the American Association of University Women. That study group expanded to become the Marshall County Mental Health Association, which eventually formed the Mental Health Center of Mid-Iowa.

Organizational efforts also included assistance from Opal Fore, a social worker, associated with the University of Iowa. She did extensive organization and consultation to various Iowa communities in establishing community mental health centers. After determining the appropriateness of the patient area, it was determined that Marshall County would set up a minimum staff and facilities for mental health services to Marshall County residents. If other counties wanted affiliate, they would be asked for financial assistance to provide services. Through Opal Fore's efforts, the Iowa Mental Health Authority provided furnishings for the Center and the Center opened in 1958.

In 1995, the Center was moved to 9 North 4th Avenue in the building known as the Evangelical School of Nursing Dormitory. Both the Substance Abuse Treatment Unit of Central Iowa (SATUCI) and the Center occupy the building. At the time of the move, the Center averaged 1,100 patient contacts per month and staff numbered 48 individuals. The Center is accredited by the Division of Mental Health and Developmental Disabilities within the Iowa Department of Human Services.