Mission and History
History
Since its inception in 1970, Community Crisis Services, Inc. (CCSi) has served as a vital resource for individuals in crisis, providing compassionate assistance and connecting them with essential mental health and social service organizations. Our 24/7 hotline is often the first step for those seeking help, and we remain committed to being a lifeline for anyone in need.
Our vision is to offer compassionate crisis support through our hotline, safe shelter programs, and information and referral services to ensure that individuals receive the care and resources they deserve.
1970’s
Steward Combo and Mike Kardos began the process of launching the Prince George’s County Hotline as a program of the Mental Health Association. The service expanded to support individuals who are hearing impaired.
1990’s
The Hotline joined the Maryland Youth Crisis Hotline Network, helping establish Maryland as the only state with a decentralized, statewide crisis response system. We also introduced:
- A Homeless Prevention Program
- Prince George’s Crisis Response System & the Anne Arundel Warmline, with the Hotline serving as the call center.
2010’s
Community Crisis Services, Inc. (CCSi) has continued to expand its reach, strengthening services in Prince George’s County while extending support across the United States.
- CCSi became a National Suicide Prevention Lifeline (9-8-8) provider, serving as a Backup Center for crisis calls nationwide.
- The Warm Nights Program grew significantly, transitioning from a seasonal shelter to a year-round operation to better serve individuals experiencing homelessness.
- CCSi expanded its commitment to supporting survivors of domestic violence by acquiring the Family Crisis Center programs in Prince George’s County. This included taking over the Domestic Violence Hotline and the Safe Passages Shelter, ensuring continued access to critical support and safe housing.
2020’s
CCSI’s Expansion During the COVID-19 Pandemic
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Community Crisis Services, Inc. (CCSi) significantly expanded its programs to meet the growing needs of individuals in crisis.
- Warm Nights Shelter transitioned from a mobile operation to a permanent facility, increasing capacity to over 200 beds.
- Safe Passages Shelter underwent major enhancements, including new construction and improved facilities to better serve those in need.
- Crisis Support Services (chat, text, and phone) experienced rapid growth with the expansion of the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline, which officially transitioned to 9-8-8.
- CCSi played a key role in the national rollout of 9-8-8, hosting the National Press Conference alongside Vibrant Emotional Health.
- CCSi was honored to host Second Gentleman Doug Emhoff as part of the ongoing nationwide launch of 9-8-8, reinforcing the importance of accessible mental health crisis support.
Mission
Community Crisis Services provides compassionate crisis support through its hotline, safe shelter programs and information and referral services.
Vision
To ensure that those in need are connected to available resources
1980’s
The Prince George’s County Hotline became the first in Maryland to receive accreditation from the American Association of Suicidology. New programs launched, including:
- Face-to-Face Crisis Counseling Outreach
- Victim Support Services for Violent Crime Survivors
- Peer Support Group for Suicide Loss Survivors
- Homeless Support Hotline
- Substance Use Prevention Program for High School Students
- School-Based Support Groups for At-Risk Youth
- Protective Services for Children and Adults
- Peer-Run Teen Helpline
The agency officially changed its name to the Prince George’s County Hotline & Suicide Prevention Center and became independent from the Mental Health Association.
2000’s
The organization officially rebranded as Community Crisis Services, Inc. (CCSi) to reflect our expanding role. New services included:
- Youth Empowerment & Support Programs
- Crisis Hotline Services for Multilingual Callers (200+ languages)
- Community Support Outreach for Individuals
- Dedicated Helpline for Domestic and Family Conflict Resolution
- Postpartum Mental Health Support Line
CCSi also played a critical role in responding to national and regional crises, operating as the Sniper Hotline, Critical Incident Call Center, and West Nile Virus Information Line. Additionally, CCSi began handling intake calls for child abuse and neglect reports in Prince George’s County and became a pilot center for 2-1-1 Maryland, further expanding access to crisis support resource