History and Mission

Our Beginnings

We began in the Department of Clinical Psychology at the University of Rochester as the Center for Community Study with one program – Primary Mental Health Project – which was developed to help children adjust to school. In 1970, we were incorporated as a not-for-profit organization, Primary Mental Health Project, Inc.  Since then, our work has grown from one program to over 40 programs and services that are grounded in research and offer new and innovative solutions for challenges facing our children.

In 2000, we changed our name to Children’s Institute, Inc., to better reflect the breadth of our work. Through sound research and evaluation and collaborative relationships with school districts, government and community partners, we continue to develop and promote effective prevention and early intervention programs, materials and best practices for children, families, schools and communities.

Our Mission

The mission of Children’s Institute is to strengthen children’s social and emotional health.