Norfolk, VA [October 08, 2025] – The Up Center is proud to announce it has been awarded a $250,000 three-year grant from the KPMG U.S. Foundation. The funding will accelerate The Up Center’s efforts to integrate Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its new Electronic Health Record (EHR) system, strengthening both client care and organizational performance.
The initiative will focus first on Outpatient Mental Health Counseling and Revenue Cycle Management departments. AI-enabled tools, such as automated documentation, smart service registration, predictive alerts for high-risk clients, and smart scheduling, will improve access to counseling services, reduce administrative burden, and help clinicians spend more time with clients. In billing and financial operations, AI will automate routine tasks, prevent common errors, and speed up reimbursements, bolstering long-term sustainability.
“This investment comes at a pivotal time for our organization,” said Andrea Long, Chief Program and Strategy Officer of The Up Center. “Demand for services is growing, and AI will allow us to work smarter—freeing up staff time, improving outcomes for children, individuals and families, and strengthening both the quality and accessibility of care so our community’s needs are met effectively.”
The KPMG U.S. Foundation is investing a total of $6 million, aligned with the firm’s broader AI Impact Initiative, to help nonprofits in education, mental health, and community vitality harness AI to enhance their work, expand access to critical services, and deliver measurable impact where it matters most. “The Up Center’s work reminds us that strong communities are built on access, care, and connection,” said Jason Kies, Managing Partner, KPMG U.S. – Southeastern Virginia. “We’re proud to stand alongside them as they integrate AI tools that will help expand access to mental health counseling, strengthen family support, and improve lives across the region.”
