Nonprofit providers in Elmhurst, Villa Park, and Oakbrook Terrace can now apply for grant funding to expand mental health, substance use, and developmental disability services across York Township.

The York Township Community Mental Health Board, known as a 708 Board, began accepting applications July 1, according to an announcement published by the Elmhurst Independent. It is the first grant cycle since York Township voters created the board by approving a referendum with more than 65 percent support in November 2024.

The money comes from a dedicated property tax levy authorized by that vote. Under Illinois law, 708 boards can levy up to 0.15 percent of the equalized assessed value of taxable property in their jurisdiction. The board does not provide services directly. Instead, it funds qualified agencies that serve the township's roughly 128,000 residents.

"We encourage providers of all sizes to apply and help us build a stronger, more connected network of services," Board President Michael Ledonne said in a July 28 announcement.

Eligible applicants include nonprofit organizations and service providers whose programs serve York Township residents in three areas: mental health services, substance use disorder treatment and recovery, and support for individuals with developmental disabilities. The board can award multiple grants to a single organization based on funding availability and community need.

How to apply

Grant applications and guidelines are posted on the township's 708 Board page. No application deadline has been publicly announced. The township office at 1502 S. Meyers Road in Lombard can be reached at 630-620-2400, Monday through Thursday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and Fridays from 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.

What is a 708 Board?

Named after Illinois House Bill 708, passed in 1963, these boards are unique to the state. More than 90 exist across Illinois. Each is a volunteer body of seven to nine members appointed by the local government leader. In York Township, that is Supervisor Timothy M. Murray, who was elected in 2025.

The boards evaluate community needs, set funding priorities, and distribute grants to local governments, nonprofits, and private agencies. Funded services must serve residents of the taxing jurisdiction.

York Township covers Elmhurst, Lombard, Villa Park, Oak Brook, Oakbrook Terrace, and portions of several other communities. Applications remain open with no announced closing date.