For Immediate Release
Media Contact: Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Cell Phone: 231-903-2952
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) invites the community to the 2024 CMHA-CEI Annual Community Event, which takes place on Tuesday, April 2nd from 9am to 12pm at the Lansing Center, located at 333 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. The theme for this year’s event is Belonging Matters.
The event will include the presentation of the CMHA-CEI 2023 Annual Report to the Community. “The 2023 CMHA-CEI Annual Report to the Community underscores our commitment to fostering Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI). We are dedicated to strengthening existing partnerships and creating new pathways into behavioral health careers. Our report features stories on Veterans Navigation, Diversity Advisory Council, and Health Equity Training, showcasing our commitment to creating inclusive spaces where everyone feels acknowledged and valued. Our guiding theme is Belonging Matters! and Together We Can...build resilient communities that champion empathy, understanding, and a sense of belonging,” explained Sara Lurie, Chief Executive Officer at CMHA-CEI.
Following the presentation of the 2023 Annual Report to the Community, Dr. Tonya Bailey will provide an engaging presentation on how as a community we can help everyone feel that they belong. Dr. Tonya Bailey (she/her/hers) has over 25 years of experience in leading transformative programming, and implementing award winning diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) initiatives. She is skilled in engaging diverse audiences by creating environments that accommodate the diverse needs of everyone.
Doors will open at 9:00 a.m., breakfast will be served, and the event will start at 9:30 a.m.
To register for the event, please visit https://bit.ly/2024CMHA-CEIAnnualEvent or by calling (517) 237-3155.
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Cell Phone: 231-903-2952
Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Invites the Community to the 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat Event
Lansing, MI – Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is hosting their 3rd Annual CMHA-CEI Trunk or Treat Event on Friday, October 27th from 4pm to 7pm, located at 812 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing, MI in the East Employee Parking Lot. This event is free and open to the public.
Trunk or Treat Event attendees will enjoy live entertainment, raffles, free candy and more. Attendees will have access to free cider and donuts, provided by Quality Dairy, and free hot dogs and chips provided by Mad Dogz Hot Dogs out of Grand Rapids, MI. The Delta Township District Library Book Van will be on-site providing free books to the community and sharing resources and information about their services. Other community partners include the Michigan State Police, who we are thrilled to have on board this year.
WHO: Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI)
WHAT: CMHA-CEI 3rd Annual Trunk or Treat Event
WHEN: Friday, October 27th from 4:00 PM to 7:00 PM
WHERE: 812 E. Jolly Rd. Lansing, MI 48910 – East Employee Parking Lot
WHY: To provide CMHA-CEI staff, their families, CMHA-CEI consumers, their families and/or caregivers, and the public with a fun and festive event to educate the community on CMHA-CEI services and programs. Please take this opportunity to learn about the wealth of CMHA-CEI resources, programs and services or by visiting www.ceicmh.org
This event is hosted and sponsored by CMHA-CEI.
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community. To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org.
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Holding a Hiring Fair for Relief Positions
Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is holding a hiring fair on Thursday, October 19th from 12:00PM to 5:00PM at 812 E. Jolly Rd, Lansing, MI 48910. CMHA-CEI is looking to hire for multiple Relief Mental Health Worker, Relief Family Support Worker, and Relief Residential Technician positions.
Janeil Pelton, a Human Resource Specialist at CMHA-CEI who oversees recruitment efforts, is excited that applicants who are passionate about working in the behavioral health field may join the CMHA-CEI team. “Getting to meet individuals who are interested in joining our CMHA-CEI team is an exciting moment as we get to discuss job opportunities and what CMHA-CEI has to offer to interested applicants. We are looking for passionate and team-oriented professionals to join CMHA-CEI and make a difference in our communities,” explains Janeil.
The relief positions have a flexible schedule of 0—19 hours per week. The current open positions are great for students or those looking for supplemental income. Positions have the ability to grow into part-time and full-time opportunities which include increased salary and benefits.
About the positions:
To apply for any relief position, all candidates must have a valid driver’s license, a GED or high school diploma, and must be able to pass a background check. For more information about current job postings, please visit www.ceicmh.org/employment.
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI): The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community. To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI atwww.ceicmh.org.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Awarded Three-Year Accreditation for Advanced Quality of Services Provided
Lansing, MI – The Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF) International has announced that Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) has been accredited through June 30, 2026. This is the seventh consecutive Three-Year Accreditation that the international accrediting body has given to CMHA-CEI. The agency retained accreditation for eighteen clinical programs, and all administrative units. Accreditation for two additional programs, Family Support Case Management (IDD-Children), and Adult Outpatient Case Management, were added.
This accreditation decision signals a service provider’s commitment to continually improving services, encouraging feedback, and serving the community. An organization receiving a Three-Year Accreditation has put itself through a rigorous peer review process. It has demonstrated to a team of surveyors during an on-site visit its commitment to offering programs and services that are measurable, accountable, and of the highest quality.
An example of an excerpt from the official accreditation report examines CMHA-CEI and its strengths, such as,” CMHA-CEI offers a varied continuum of treatment programs and services to clients with mental health and substance use disorders. The organization also provides outpatient treatment and residential treatment to clients referred from within the criminal justice system. The programs and services are provided in multiple locations for clients in all stages of recovery in order to make the treatment process, from detox to outpatient, as simple and consistent as possible”.
CARF is an independent, nonprofit accrediting body whose mission is to promote the quality, value, and optimal outcomes of services through a consultative accreditation process and continuous improvement services that center on enhancing the lives of the persons served. Founded in 1966 as the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, and now known as CARF International, the accrediting body establishes consumerfocused standards to help organizations measure and improve the quality of their programs and services.
For more information about the accreditation process, please visit the CARF website at www.carf.org.
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI): The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community. To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
LANSING – U.S. Senator Debbie Stabenow joined Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties CEO Sara Lurie and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and the leader of the Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) Dr. Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon to highlight the transformational behavioral health services provided by the clinic. Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties is one of 34 Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics in Michigan, a highly successful initiative created by Senator Stabenow.
“Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties is transforming the way that we deliver behavioral health services in our community,” said Senator Stabenow. “My mental health care and substance use disorder initiative is a proven success story and is transforming care in Michigan and across our country. Now, every state will be able to join and make sure health care above the neck is funded the same way as health care below the neck. Because of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, help through our highly successful clinics will begin to reach people in every corner of our country.”
“The CCBHC model championed by our own US Senator Debbie Stabenow is truly transformative and is helping us to improve quality of care and more fully serve our community. The need is for timely behavioral health services is great and it is vitally important and exciting that this model can now be further expanded here in Michigan and throughout the United States,” said Sara Lurie, CEO of Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, Ingham Counties.
“Today, I was pleased to visit two Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics (CCBHCs) in the state of Michigan with Senator Stabenow,” said Miriam E. Delphin-Rittmon, Ph.D., HHS Assistant Secretary for Mental Health and Substance Use and the leader of SAMHSA.“CCBHCs are transforming behavioral health systems in this country, and we know that the model of care works. They decrease homelessness, incarcerations, emergency room and hospital stays, and the use of illegal substances with 24/7 access to crisis stabilization.”
Last year, Senator Stabenow led the passage of the transformational initiative to fully fund high-quality mental health and substance use disorder services through Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics, a program implemented and supported by SAMHSA. Due to the passage of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act, every state and the District of Columbia can expand transformational behavioral health support to their residents. Michigan began participating in Stabenow’s behavioral health initiative in 2021.
These Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics are transforming community care by setting high-quality standards of care and then funding mental health and addiction services as health care through Medicaid. This is the same successful structure used for federally qualified health centers.
In order to receive enhanced Medicaid funding, the clinics are required to provide crisis services that are available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and serve anyone who requests care for mental health or substance use disorder, regardless of their ability to pay. Other high-quality services are required as well, including outpatient mental health and substance use disorder treatment services; immediate screenings, risk assessments, and diagnoses; and care coordination including partnerships with emergency rooms, law enforcement, and veterans’ groups.
The Department of Health and Human Services found that people who receive care at these clinics had:
* 74% reduction in hospitalization
* 68% reduction in visits to the emergency room
* 33% decrease in homelessness
Also, 84% of these clinics either already provide direct services on site at elementary, middle, and high schools or plan to in the future.
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About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Invites the Community for a Morning of Hope and Healing: 2023 CMHA-CEI In-Person Community Event
Lansing, MI Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) invites the community to the 2023 CMHA-CEI Annual Community Event, which takes place on Monday, April 3rd from 9am to 12pm at the Lansing Center, located at 333 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48933. The theme for this year’s event is Hope and Healing.
Last year, the event was held virtually. This year, CMHA-CEI would like to celebrate hope and healing with our community post COVID pandemic. “In our reflection, 2022 was a year of Hope and Healing. Glimmers of hope shined brighter as we slowly emerged from the peak of the pandemic and re-engaged in activities and events that had paused. Healing began as we experienced the sweetness and joy of opportunities to be together with family, friends, neighbors, co-workers, community partners, and other community members. We also know that healing will be ongoing for those of us who lost loved one's as a result of the pandemic,” explained Sara Lurie, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) at CMHA-CEI.
The event will consist of the sharing of the CMHA-CEI 2022 Annual Report to the Community. CEO, Lurie hopes that the viewing of the CMHA-CEI 2022 Report to the Community will show the power of relationships, innovation, and connections in healing, growth, and recovery. “I hope participants will recognize they are the heroes in their own lives and in the lives of others and leave with appreciation for the strength and resilience of our partnerships and our community.”
Doors will open at 9:00 a.m., a breakfast buffet will be provided, and the event will start at 9:30 a.m. Following the presentation of the 2022 Annual Report to the Community, Michael Hahn will provide a thrilling presentation on how we can embrace our inner hero! “During the session, I'll share the habits of everyday heroes like you… I’ll give you a chance to think about a hero from your past and appreciate them for their sacrifice, dedication and example. I hope you'll discover that you already possess many of the Hero Habits. Superhero Tip: Heroes are everyday people (like us), who have ingrained habits that enable them to be resilient,” explained Michael Hahn, Keynote Speaker and author of Hero Habits.
To register for the event, please visit https://bit.ly/2023AnnualCommunityEvent or by calling (517) 237-3155
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Emily Wollner, Acting Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Phone: 517-346-9512
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Offers Mental Health Tips in Response to MSU Crisis
Lansing, MI (February 15, 2023) - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is releasing mental health tips for families and individuals to manage stress or trauma associated with the recent crisis at Michigan State University (MSU).
Mental Health Support:
Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis should call 988 (24 hours/7 days) or CMHA-CEI’s Crisis Services at 517-346-8460 (24 hours/7 days). Individuals can also take a free, anonymous, online screening for behavioral health issues (including depression, generalized anxiety disorder, alcohol use disorder, opioid misuse, suicide ideation, etc.) and general wellbeing available via direct link at https://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/cei or available on our website at www.ceicmh.org.
Tips for Parents:
Tips for Adults:
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI): The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance use disorder, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Cell Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI and Ascension Pharmacy to Provide Free Narcan Kits to Prevent Overdoses in Lansing
Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) and Ascension Pharmacy are offering free Narcan Kits, also known as Naloxone Kits, that are available for pick up at the Ascension Pharmacy, located at 812 E. Jolly Rd., Lansing, MI 48910 Suite 108. Prescription is not required. Hours for Narcan Kit pick up are Monday through Friday from 8:30AM to 5:00PM.
The objective for distributing Narcan Kits through CMHA-CEI and Ascension Pharmacy is to prevent opioid overdoses, but to also decrease the stigma surrounding overdoses and how they occur. “An overdose occurs when a person ingests too much of an opioid or a combination of opioids and other medications causing their breathing to slow or stop, which can ultimately lead to a deadly situation,” states Christopher Wolfinger, Ascension Pharmacy Manager, located at CMHA-CEI. With that in mind, overdoses can happen to anyone. Christopher continues, “Oftentimes overdose can happen by accident to individuals taking medications prescribed to them, or by others in the home if opioids are being used by a family member. It's important to have Narcan available even if you don't think you'll ever need to use it. The goal is to get Narcan kits out into the community because if you never think you'll need it, it's better to be prepared. You may find yourself in a situation where you can save a life even if it is someone you have never met before. Those are the scenarios we want the community to be ready for.”
When an individual receives a Narcan Kit, they will receive instructions on how to use and 2 Narcan nasal sprays. It is best to administer Narcan as soon as possible to an individual that is suspected of suffering an overdose and then call 911 immediately after. It is important to stay with the individual until help arrives as the Narcan only lasts about 15 minutes and the individual could go right back into overdose when the Narcan wears off.
According to Narcan.com, the signs and symptoms of an overdose are:
1. Unusual sleepiness and you are not able to awake the person with a loud voice or by rubbing firmly on the middle of their chest (sternum).
2. Breathing problems including slow or shallow breathing in someone difficult to awaken or who looks like they are not breathing.
3. The black circle in the center of the colored part of the eye (pupil) is very small, sometimes called “pinpoint pupils,” in someone difficult to awaken.
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Cell Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Board Honors Senator Hertel with Distinguished Service Award
Lansing, MI – The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) Board has nominated State Senator Curtis Hertel Jr. as the 2022 Distinguished Service Award Recipient. The CMHA-CEI Board will hold a reception on Thursday, December 15th at 5:30pm in the agency’s Atrium, located at 812 E. Jolly Rd.
“Senator Hertel is being recognized because of his outstanding community service and unwavering commitment to meeting the behavioral health needs of the community,” states Sara Lurie, Chief Executive Officer of CMHA-CEI. Other organizations that help advocate for behavioral health services and access in the tri-county area also praised Senator Hertel for his involvement and dedication to this topic. Kevin Keeler, the National Alliance on Mental Illness (NAMI) Lansing President explains, “Senator Hertel is a friend, supporter, and advocate for the mid-Michigan mental health community and NAMI Lansing. Due to the hard work and dedication of Senator Hertel, health care in mid-Michigan has dramatically improved. We appreciate his passion to thoughtfully care and legislate for those less fortunate.”
The Distinguished Service Award recognizes the important efforts by those individuals and organizations who do extraordinary things to support the well-being of the thousands of individuals and families that CMHA-CEI serves. Senator Hertel has used his voice and platform to address community access to behavioral health services, and has been instrumental in supporting the development of a behavioral health campus on the former McLaren-Greenlawn Campus inclusive of a Crisis Stabilization Center operated by CMHA-CEI.
“Senator Hertel has been a lifelong advocate for sound and equitable mental health policy in Michigan, consistently putting people before politics. He always strives to do the right thing for those most in need in our community. I’m proud to have had him represent me, and even more proud to stand with him in supporting Community Mental Health in our region. He truly deserves this recognition,” explained Ingham County Commissioner Emily Stivers, who serves as the Ingham County liaison and Finance Chair of the CMHA-CEI Board.
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties Board of Directors applauds Senator Hertel Jr. for his outstanding community service and unwavering commitment to meeting the behavioral health needs of the community.
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
For Immediate Release
Media Contact:
Rachel McCoy, Public Relations and Outreach Specialist
Cell Phone: 231-903-2952
Email:
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
CMHA-CEI Presents the Distinguished Service Award
The Recipient will be awarded during the 2022 Virtual Annual Event
Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) recognizes Youth Haven as the 2022 Distinguished Service Award recipient. CMHA-CEI will present the Distinguished Service Award during the 2022 Annual Event, which will take place virtually on Tuesday, March 29th, 2022 from 8:30AM to 11:30AM. The Distinguished Service Award is presented annually to community members who collaborate with CMHA-CEI to achieve our vision.
Youth Haven is a faith-based organization that first came to fruition in 1968, thanks to Founders Morry and Dorothy Carlson and Larry and Cheri Carlson. Its exclusive intent is to assist disadvantaged children and to instill encouragement, hope, and positive experiences in their lives. Youth Haven’s camp programs are designed to support clinical organizations by offering fun and engaging experiences to children. Their campuses in Michigan and in Arizona consist of a range of fun activities including, a pool, sledding hill, variety games, and a new zip lining activity that will be installed during the 2022 calendar year. Youth Haven serves approximately 1500 individual children and teens each year between their two campus locations, as well as with their mail and online outreach programs.
“During the holidays, youth who attend Youth Haven are gifted with multiple presents. It really is like a Santa’s Workshop,” states Paul Brooks, Senior Mental Health Worker with Families Forward. Paul has been working with Youth Haven for over 20 years, coordinating registration between the therapists, families, and Youth Haven to ensure the kids can have access to a weekend of fun activities. “Lars and Stephanie are the most accommodating and caring people that I know. The feedback that I get from therapists and parents about the kid’s experiences are so positive. All of the fun activities that kids get to do on a daily basis makes me want to continue doing this work,” states Paul.
“We offer spots to kids who are not only receiving services, but we also offer spots to their siblings as well. When CMHA-CEI works with various families, Youth Haven is often mentioned as a great resource to help these families,” stated Stephanie Carroll, Director of Program Scheduling and Volunteer Engagement at Youth Haven. “One of our most loved initiatives/activities is the Harvey and Friends Program. Harvey is a stuffed animal of a moose, which has turned into our mascot. Today, we have stuffed animals of Harvey the moose and about eleven other stuffed animals of different kinds that children can earn whether it is through good behavior, finishing their activities, or completing other programs”, stated Stephanie.
Youth Haven’s leadership has stayed in the Carlson family. Lars Carlson, President and CEO at Youth Haven, is a third-generation leader and describes the program’s expansions that he has witnessed and led over the years, “opportunity drives creation, and constraints drive innovation. During the COVID-19 shutdown of on-site programs, we realized that this was a time that kids needed encouragement more than ever. Our staff rallied together and created care packages that consisted of games, activities, goodies, and over a thousand hand written letters of encouragement to kids during the COVID-19 pandemic,” stated Lars.
That summer, Youth Haven created a virtual camp program where children could access a week long camp program from home. Children from across five states participated in the virtual camp, which normally would have not been the case during in-person camp programs. Today, on site programs have resumed, but through the COVID-19 pandemic, Youth Haven saw an opportunity to grow and learn how to provide off site programs when children are not on campus. “We continue to host virtual activities with children in other states and throughout Michigan,” stated Lars. “Our goal is to reach children across the country and to connect with more organizations, like CMHA-CEI, who have children in their care that can benefit from our activities and programs at no cost.”
Lars and Stephanie are thrilled to receive the CMHA-CEI Distinguished Service Award. “We are so grateful for the recognition, but it’s affirming for us to know that we are helping children and families that are accessing services within CMHA-CEI. We are grateful for the partnership and to receive the recognition is a blessing. We thank you.”
To learn more about Youth Haven, please visit their website at: https://www.youthhaven.org/
Community members can register for the free event by visiting the registration link here: https://bit.ly/AnnualEvent2022
Learn more about the services and programs at CMHA-CEI by visiting our website: www.ceicmh.org
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
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CMHA-CEI Recognizing National Recovery Month in September
Lansing, MI - Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) is raising awareness of recovery resources and tools for the tri-county area during National Recovery Month. National Recovery Month is a national observance held every September to educate Americans that substance use treatment and mental health services can enable those with mental and substance use disorders to live healthy and rewarding lives. Now in its 31st year, Recovery Month celebrates the gains made by those living in recovery.
CMHA-CEI recognizes the importance of mental health and Substance Use Disorder (SUD) recovery and is promoting several resources and events that the community can use to support individuals during Recovery Month. These resources and tools can help aid someone in recognizing that they are experiencing a behavioral health crisis, need access to treatment, and access to recovery supports.
The Behavioral Health Screening Tool: If you see changes in someone in your life, it could be a sign they’re struggling with their behavioral health. Let them know that you’re there for them by sharing a behavioral health screening that they can take anonymously from their device. To utilize the screening tool, please visit: https://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/CEI
Integrated Treatment and Recovery Services (ITRS) at CMHA-CEI: Integrated Treatment & Recovery Services (ITRS) (formerly Substance Abuse Services) provides withdrawal management, residential and outpatient substance use disorder services involving individual and group therapy sessions. Peer recovery coaching and case management is also offered, as well as integrated healthcare in community partnering health clinics.To learn about ITRS, please visit: http://www.ceicmh.org/services/itrs
The Community Mental Health Association of Michigan’s Walk a Mile Event: CMHA-CEI and multiple Community Mental Health organizations around Michigan will be participating in the Walk a Mile event, which will take place on Wednesday, September 29th in Lansing. CMHA-CEI encourages the community to participate in the walk to give individuals a platform to voice the need of behavioral health services in Michigan. To learn more about the importance of this event and event details, please visit: https://cmham.org/education-events/walk-a-mile-rally/
If you or someone you know is suffering from a behavioral or SUD crisis, please call our ACCESS line at 517-346-8318 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
Visit the CMHA-CEI Facebook Page to read the highlighted stories here: https://www.facebook.com/ceicmh
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
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For Immediate Release |
Contact: |
Eliza Duckworth |
MARCH 18, 2022 |
202-224-1437 |
Senator Stabenow Announces New Funding to Expand Mental Health and Addiction Services in Greater Lansing
I. LANSING — US. Senator Debbie Stabenow (D-MI) today announced $3,366,000 in funding from the recently passed federal budget to expand mental health and addiction services provided by the Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties. This funding will be used to establish a Crisis Stabilization Unit to provide short-term behavioral health services to those who need it. The unit is expected to divert people into treatment and out of jails and emergency rooms.
This funding builds on Senator Stabenow’s effort to transform the way we fund mental health and addiction treatment in America through her signature Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics. There are currently 33 locations being funded in Michigan, including the Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties.
“The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties is transforming the way we deliver behavioral health services in the Greater Lansing area,” said Senator Stabenow. “This investment will help make sure no person has to sit in jail or the emergency room when what they really need is immediate mental health or addiction services.”
“Senator Stabenow has been a tireless champion of the Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinic (CCBHC) Model and of adequately funding and sustaining behavioral health services. As a CCBHC Expansion Grantee and State CCBHC Demonstration Project Site serving the Capital Area of Michigan, we offer an array of crisis and specialty behavioral health services to the community,” said Sara Lurie, Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham CEO. “To take another important step toward better serving the needs of the community, we submitted a community project proposal to Senator Stabenow’s office for start-up of a Crisis Stabilization Unit (CSU) for the Capital Area. Increased demand, coupled with a shortage of local and state community psychiatric hospital beds, has put a strain on our existing Crisis Services Units, on hospital emergency departments, and has added to the incarceration of individuals with serious, untreated mental health issues. Establishment of a CSU will allow us to reposition, enhance and expand the existing youth and adult Crisis Services, offering a secure environment where individuals can immediately begin treatment. We are excited and ready to accelerate our planning efforts to make this a reality for our community and grateful to Senator Stabenow for her unwavering support for the overall health and well-being of all Michigan Citizens.”
“Michigan’s Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics have powerfully and dramatically improved access to mental health care in communities across the state. The funding that Senator Stabenow secured in the federal budget for these clinics is welcome news for the hundreds of thousands of Michiganders who are served by that them every year,” said Robert Sheehan, Community Mental Health Association of Michigan CEO.
“County jails all across this country have become the single largest mental health facilities.Projects like Crisis Stabilization Units will ensure the proper short term mental health care for people while looking for better long term mental health solutions,” said Scott Wrigglesworth, Ingham County Sheriff.
For years, Senator Stabenow has been leading the effort to fund health care above the neck the same way we fund health care below the neck. She authored the bipartisan Excellence in Mental Health and Addiction Treatment Act with Senator Roy Blunt (R-MO), which was signed into law in 2014.
Senator Stabenow’s legislation accomplished two critical needs:
According to the Department of Health and Human Services, people who receive services at Certified Community Behavioral Health Clinics:
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CMHA-CEI Highlights Two Recovery Stories during National Recovery Month:
First Day of Recovery vs. Last Day of Recovery
Lansing, MI – During National Recovery Month, Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) will highlight several recovery stories of mental health and substance use disorder (SUD).
“When I was not using, I was a successful person. When I was not pleasing my friends on the streets, I would stay away from the drugs. There was a lot of peer pressure that led me to fall back into old habits because I would go back to my old friends who were users”, explained Dane. Dane, is in his late 40’s. The look of exhaustion and optimism pass over his facial expressions as he explains his life story. Dane is in his fourth day at the House of Commons (HOC).
Dane has entered treatment through involvement in the court system, which may order individuals to participate in a 12-week SUD treatment and recovery program such as House of Commons. He is not alone, there are currently other men in HOC either waiting to be sentenced, or who have been sentenced to attend the HOC due to previous drug related offenses.
So far, Dane feels hopeful and optimistic for the 90-day program. Dane explained that he loves his schedule as it pertains to adopting healthy habits, structure, and learning new skills. There are different appointments that Dane will be set up with, including an optometrist appointment to receive new glasses, healthcare appointments, and more.
On the other spectrum, is Brett. Brett’s last day of the 90-day program is in three days. He explains that everyone has their way of coping with past trauma, and has found solace in putting his emotions on paper, instead of acting on them. Brett loves to write poetry. “Writing poems is elaborating and a form of therapy for me to put everything down on a piece of paper”, states Brett.
Many of the men at HOC have past traumas, which ultimately was the reason they started to abuse substances. For others, drug use was just a strategy to escape the symptoms of mental illness and falling into the clutches of peer pressure by their peers. This unhealthy mix would turn into the perfect storm for addiction to occur.
If you see changes in someone in your life, it could be a sign they’re struggling with their behavioral health. Let them know that you’re there for them by sharing a behavioral health screening that they can take anonymously from their device. To utilize the Behavioral Health Screening Tool, please visit: https://screening.mentalhealthscreening.org/CEI
If you or someone you know is suffering from a behavioral or SUD crisis, please call our ACCESS line at 517-346-8318 or email us at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
To learn more about our services and programs, please visit CMHA-CEI at www.ceicmh.org
Visit the CMHA-CEI Facebook Page to read the highlighted stories here: https://www.facebook.com/ceicmh
About Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI):
The Community Mental Health Authority of Clinton, Eaton, and Ingham Counties (CMHA-CEI) provides, directly and through partnerships, a comprehensive set of person-centered, high quality, and effective behavioral health, substance abuse, and developmental disability services to the residents of this community.
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