The executive director of a Grand Junction-based organization that helps youth has been selected to serve on a new state task force to evaluate the behavioral health system in Colorado.

Jill Derrieux, executive director of Mesa County Partners, is among 25 members of the Behavioral Health Task Force.

Colorado Gov. Jared Polis and the Colorado Department of Human Services selected members of the task force, choosing from among more than 470 applicants for 25  positions on the main task force and a total of 75 positions on three subcommittees.

The task force will evaluate the behavioral health system in Colorado and develop a plan for reforming the system to meet the needs of residents across the state.

“I am proud to lead this task force so we can urgently work to create a road map for behavioral health in our state,” said Michelle Barnes, director of the Colorado Department of Human Services. “The 100 citizens we have selected will make a critical difference for people dealing with issues related to mental health and substance abuse. I want to thank everyone what applied and encourage all Coloradans to stay involved as there is much work to be done.”

Mesa County Partners offers mentoring, outdoor work and restitution programs to help young people develop a positive self-image and sense of belonging as well as accept responsibility for their actions.