Toby House, Inc.

A Brief History
As a direct result of major deinstitutionalization during the sixties decade, many clients were discharged from mental health facilities with little or no assistance or support. Groups across the nation began to discover that large numbers of people were virtually abandoned by the mental health treatment systems. In Phoenix, a group of compassionate individuals came together and discussed the need for patients to be transitioned from the State Hospital to community living. In 1968, the Mental Health Association's Board of Directors formed a committee headed by Toby Citron to develop the first halfway house for patients in Maricopa County.

The Committee grew into the Community Foundation for Mental Health, a non profit group separate from the Mental Health Association. It was charged with the establishing and operating of a half way house. The Foundation was incorporated in 1971 with Toby Citron as its first President.

With assistance from several private sources, funds were raised and the first house was purchased. The house was located at 303 West Willetta Avenue and its first director was Robert Huffman. Toby House opened its door on January 8, 1973.

Over time, the project grew and various components of Toby House began to emerge. In 1980, in order to bring more clarity to its public message, the Foundation changed its name to Community Mental Health Services (CMHS) with Dr. Bruce Mason now as President of the Board of Directors. During the eighties, the programs expanded and the name was changed to Toby House, Inc., with Ken Citron as Board President and Ray Grey as Executive Director.

Since then, Toby House, Inc. has grown to operating fourteen facilities, seven HUD apartment buildings for independent living, a Day Treatment Program and a Vocational Training Program, incorporating a Thrift Store.

The uniqueness of Toby House revolves around the longevity of the organization, the longevity of its leadership, a continuum of care approach to treatment and by its remaining true to its mission.

We continue to provide a broad range of services to adults with psychosocial disorders and maintain our reputation for quality treatment, a caring healing environment and the highest of professional standards.