My City Magazine

My City Cares 2024

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Carousel of Hope Miniature Therapy Horses

Sponsored By:

Key Services

The stars of Carousel of Hope are Miniature Horses Kory and Selena, who travel via a “mini” van making therapy visits to skilled nursing, assisted living, memory care and independent senior living facilities as well as hospitals, schools and local community events. Kory and Selena also enjoy hosting individuals or very small groups at their Linden farm, The Raven’s Nest. These pre-arranged hourly visits offer one-on-one interactions with the miniature horses. Participants can enjoy equine-guided experiences like learning the basics of handling and grooming the minis, or working through other ground-based activities such as painting with the minis or helping to build and lead them through an obstacle course.

How can the community help?

Our biggest needs are volunteers and sponsors, with the hope of building long-term relationships with them. Our website has information and a brief questionnaire regarding volunteer opportunities for individuals as well as groups. There is also a link where monetary donations can easily be made. Monetary contributions can be helpful in all sorts of ways: feed, bedding, grooming supplies, veterinary care, hoof care, van fuel, liability insurance and providing a visit for a facility of your choice.

We are also looking for businesses or facilities that would welcome us to visit for training purposes. This enables us to get the minis into a variety of environments and settings to work on particular tasks like riding in elevators, and continuing to familiarize them with new sights, smells and sounds. The more we are able to experience as a team, the more successful we will be at making long-lasting impressions and connections with our therapy visits. Any opportunity to interact with the horses and get them out is an opportunity to train!

Are there plans to enhance your services?

We look forward to continuing to expand the number of visits we are able to provide and to working with more individuals and small groups at the farm.

Our Mission

Our mission is to share the transformative power of the equine-human bond and nurture human potential and capacity for compassion, resilience and hope by providing equine-assisted therapy and activities to people of all ages and abilities.

Future Events

With the colder winter months drawing near, the number and length of visits we are able to make with the minis indoors become limited. It becomes impossible for us to bathe Kory and Selena in a cold barn for their visits indoors, and to make matters even more difficult, they grow very thick winter coats, which means they get too warm inside quite quickly. We take pride in how our horses look and smell, so their cleanliness during outings is very important to us, but so is their indoor comfort level and how they feel overall. Additionally, we have to be more cautious when transporting the minis in wintery road conditions.

That being said, we still have a handful of visits and events upcoming for the end of 2024. Our monthly visits to Tanglewood will continue and we will once again be a part of the Christmas party for residents and their families. St. john the Evangelist Catholic School and Regency at Waterford will welcome us back for our second visit with them, and we will visit Serene Gardens of Rochester Hills for the first time the week before Thanksgiving. In early December, Dr.Stilson will participate in the Young Women and the Workforce Career Connections event hosted by the Fenton-Linden Regional Chamber of Commerce for junior and senior high school girls. Kory and Selena will make a special appearance with her for this event. We also look forward to being present at events around the communities of Fenton and Linden during the holiday season, too.

Leadership

  • Nicole Stilson, DVM
    Founder and President
  • Erin McEwan
    Training & Therapy Assistant

Contact

Ennis Center for Children

Sponsored By:

Key Services

Ennis Center for Children provides foster care licensing, placement and adoption services, treatment foster care, outpatient counseling and mental health services (all ages, including adults); Therapeutic Arts Groups, Youth Assistance Program (YAP – support services for at-risk youth); Juvenile Justice Program (support services for youth involved with the Juvenile Justice system); Young Adult Voluntary Foster Care Program (YAVFC – support for youth transitioning into adulthood) and other support services for children and families in crisis.

Jill Ennis Educational Center is available for students ages 14-18 who are in the Juvenile Justice system having been expelled from public school in Wayne County. The Center gives them an opportunity to complete their educational goals.

In addition, Families and Children Together (FACT – designed by Ennis Center for Children) integrates the coordination of foster care and family work. This includes medical, dental, educational and judicial needs, as well as trauma-based prevention. By using all available community resources, the final goal of FACT is the preservation and reunification of families.

How can the community help?

Among our biggest priorities and most fundamental needs are foster parents, especially those willing to provide a home for children of all ages. We gladly accept new clothing in all sizes (including socks, underwear, pajamas and shoes), diapers, Pull-ups, Goodnites (all sizes) and baby wipes, new/unopened toys for all ages, personal hygiene items and hair care products for all skin and hair types. We are also experiencing a great need for convertible/5-point restraint car seats, cribs and toddler beds. Monetary donations are appreciated and will assist with unexpected expenses such as uniforms, tutoring, after school activities and more.

Ennis Center for Children is currently looking for golfers to join our 32nd Annual Darren Simpson “Scramble for Kids” fundraiser. We are also seeking door prizes, gift cards/certificates, silent auction items and sponsors for this event. Proceeds benefit Ennis Center’s programs for abused and neglected children, and families in crisis throughout Southeast Michigan.

Our Mission

With the support of the community, we preserve families when possible and create new families when necessary.

Future Events

Please visit enniscenter.org and/or Facebook.com/EnnisCenter for event updates!

  • Donate during National Adoption Awareness Month
    Ennis Center for Children has served children and families in crisis for 46 years. During the month of November 2024, we are asking our family, friends, community partners, leaders and the public to help us help kids by donating $46, or any amount.
  • National Social Workers Awareness Month
    March
  • National Child Abuse Prevention Month
    April
  • National Foster Care Awareness Month
    May
  • National Reunification Month
    June
  • National Nonprofit Day
    August 17, 2025
  • 32nd Annual Darren Simpson “Scramble for Kids”
    Golf Fundraiser
    Coyote Preserve, Fenton
    June 20, 2025
  • Fundraiser
    Topgolf, Auburn Hills
    November 24, 2024

Leadership

  • Erin Covert
    Chief Operating Officer
  • Gale Frase Overstreet, BBA
    VP Administrative Services
  • Kristina Orban
    Controller
  • Angelia Dore, MA
    VP Child Welfare
  • Sheery Houston
    VP Development & Marketing
  • Jeri Fisher, MA
    VP Community & Leadership Development
  • Lori Lambertsen, MS
    VP of Provider Development
  • Bridgitt McCaughey, MSW
    Chief Operating Officer, FACT (Family and Children Together)

Contact

Anjali L Saripalli, MD MSE

Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute

Key Services

The Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute stands on the combined strength of the Genesys and Hurley medical facilities – bringing the most advanced cancer treatment services, technologies and quality of life programs available to one convenient location, close to home. It is a partnership completely focused on patient care of unsurpassed excellence. The GHCI offers everything from information and cancer management systems to the most advanced computer-driven therapy techniques, including nationally recognized research studies.

Everything we do is born out of helping patients feel better faster. The GHCI has several staff available to patients, their families and their caregivers to assist with issues surrounding a cancer diagnosis. In addition, patients are offered a variety of free classes, programs and services. These include social, dietitian and wellness services such as cooking classes, yoga, meditation, nutrition, scrapbooking, journaling and many more. The wellness services and classes are open to all cancer patients, cancer survivors and caregivers in and around Genesee County.

How can the community help?

Transportation services and financial services to assist our patients who are struggling to get to their appointments or struggling to keep their utilities on, are always challenging needs for cancer patients. We accept donations for general funds or specific programs. Go to the “Donate” option at ghci.org or scan the QR code on this page).

You can also sign up to be a volunteer driver with American Cancer Society’s (ACS) Road To Recovery Program – visit cancer.org/involved/volunteer/road-to-recovery.html

Are there plans to enhance your services?

New Radiation Oncologist

The GHCI, in partnership with Collaborative Radiation Oncology, has brought a new face to our practice: Anjali Saripalli, MD, MSE. Dr. Saripalli graduated from the University of Michigan Medical School and recently completed her residency as Chief Resident at Loyola University in Chicago.

Pink Ribbon Boutique

Located inside the GHCI lobby, the Pink Ribbon Boutique is a new full-service mastectomy supply shop. There is a board-certified fitter for bras, prosthetics and lymphedema sleeves through collaboration with Active Home Medical Supply. Most insurances are accepted. In addition, the Pink Ribbon Boutique offers wigs, hats, turbans and gift items.

All wigs are $99. Currently, the boutique is open for limited hours – Tuesday & Wednesday 10am-2pm – due to volunteer training. Additional appointments are always available for fittings by calling 810.667.6962.

Future Partners

We are also interested in partnering with other businesses and community members for outreach and fundraising events. We will continue to sponsor the annual Free Breast Screening event every October and work with Regional Medical Imaging to provide free mammograms when needed.

Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute will continue to partner with Hurley Medical Center and Genesys Henry Ford to provide Compassionate Cancer Care in the heart of Genesee County.

Our Mission

The mission of Genesys Hurley Cancer Institute is to relieve the burden of cancer for those we serve with a focus on quality, research, and a full spectrum commitment to the mind, body, and spirit approach to cancer care.

Future Events

  • Oncology Resource Fair
    January 2025 (details TBA)

Leadership

  • Kimberly VanSlyke-Smith
    Executive Director
  • Keith Poniers
    Executive Board Chair

Contact

Humane Society of Genesee County

Sponsored By: Barry Catrell

Key Services

  • Pet Adoption
  • Animal Cruelty Investigation
  • Kibble Cupboard-Pet Food Pantry
  • Humane Education (Tours, Furry Tales Reading
  • Program, Tots & Tales, etc.)
  • Think Pawsitive (Workplace Wellness Program)
  • Volunteer and Community Service Opportunities
  • Birthday Parties
  • Golf Outings and other Special Events

How can the community help?

Financial

Cash Donations – These funds stay within our shelter and benefit homeless animals in Genesee County. They can be made in person, online, by mail or phone. Automated monthly donations simplify the giving process and minimize HSGC’s administrative costs.

Cage Sponsorship – Individuals and businesses can help feed and shelter a companion animal for $1 a day ($365 annual cost).

Community Marketing Partnerships & Event Sponsorships – This is a great way for the community to support one of Genesee County’s oldest and most trusted organizations.

Non-Monetary

Wish List – Donations of new or used items make a significant impact on our ability to care for shelter animals. Find our complete Wish List at geneseehumane.org, as well as a link to our Amazon Wish List.

Shop for a Cause – Many retailers offer the opportunity to support organizations like HSGC.

Kroger – If you have a Kroger Plus Card, you can help HSGC.

Our Mission

To provide shelter and adoption of companion animals, reduce overpopulation, extend humane education, prevent cruelty and provide those services that promote the goals and policies of the Humane Society of Genesee County.

Future Events

  • Holiday of Hope
    Saturday, December 7, 2024
    10am-3pm at HSGC

Leadership

  • David Schmieder
    Executive Director
  • Kristin Cole
    Shelter Manager

Contact

Voices for Children

Sponsored By:

Key Services

A singular service provider, Voices for Children is the only Accredited Children’s Advocacy Center serving the Flint and Genesee County area. In 2025, we will celebrate our 25th year of providing hope, help and healing to the child survivors of abuse, neglect and human trafficking.

Hope – Voices for Children provides victim and family advocacy, case management and forensic interviews. Forensic Interviews are an evidence-based practice in which trained and trauma-informed professionals have an open-ended conversation with a child or teen that allows the youth to share what has happened to them. From physical abuse to sexual abuse, neglect, even human trafficking and witness to violence including domestic and intimate partner violence, forensic interviews allow children to tell their truth one time, instead of having to repeatedly relive their trauma.

Help – Voices for Children helps support children ages 0-17 and their non-offending caregivers as they navigate the justice system, and connects them with needed resources. This can include basic needs, educational resources, transportation, employment and other forms of support. Additionally, Voices for Children facilitates the Genesee County Court Appointed Special Advocate (CASA) program, a national model that helps children in foster care by connecting them with highly trained volunteers.

Healing – Counseling and Therapy services at Voices for Children are provided free of charge to clients. Therapists specialize in supporting children who have survived the unthinkable and can work with children from toddlers to teens. Support groups are also available for child/teen survivors and non-offending family members.

A Voice – Voices for Children proactively educates our community and youth about how to stay safe and report suspected child maltreatment. Free community training includes Safe Sleep, Infant Safety, Human Trafficking Prevention, Internet Safety, Talking to Children About Racism, Trauma Informed/Adverse Childhood Experiences, and Advocacy for LGBTQIA+ Youth. Voices for Children also offers body-safety training for children in preschool through 2nd grade. All training is provided free of charge.

How can the community help?

  • Your gift of any amount helps provide these needed services – visit voicesforcac.org/donate or text 44-321 GivetoVoices (one word)
  • Volunteer – find out more and apply online at voicesforcac.org/how you-can-help/.
  • Purchase Wish List Gift Cards to Meijer, Target and Walmart; Gas Cards; Tissues, Toilet Paper, Paper Towels, Snacks/Beverages
  • Attend a free training (sign up at voicesforcac.org/training/).
  • Help spread the word about Voices for Children as a Community Ambassador!

Are there plans to enhance your services?

As we approach our 25th year, we will continue our diligent strides toward preventing child abuse and neglect. Voices for Children is in constant pursuit of evolving to better our work and the lives of all who are affected by it. This includes expanding services to meet the needs of our children and families while also raising awareness about preventing abuse, neglect and human trafficking.

Our Mission

Voices for Children Advocacy Center is dedicated to serving child abuse survivors and their families in Genesee and Shiawassee Counties and enhancing the lives of all children through treatment, education, and by increasing community awareness.

Future Events

  • Dodgeball Tournament
    February, 2025
  • 30th Annual Children’s Champion Awards Breakfast
    March 19, 2025
  • Annual Wine & Cheese Event
    April 24, 2025
  • Cooking with The Chiefs
    May 16, 2025

Leadership

  • Chief Ronald Wiles (Ret.)
    Board President
  • Cheryl Sclater
    Board Vice President
  • Kevin Lenkart
    Board Vice President
  • Jeffrey Collier
    Board Treasurer
  • Claudnyse D. Holloman
    President & CEO

Contact

Whaley Children’s Center

Key Services

Whaley Children’s Center (WCC) is a non-profit residential treatment facility dedicated to supporting Michigan’s at-risk foster youth. WCC serves children statewide, offering therapeutic and enrichment programs designed to build self-confidence, independence and emotional intelligence. At the heart of WCC’s mission is creating a nurturing environment where children can heal from trauma, gain life skills and flourish. Through this holistic, trauma-informed approach, WCC empowers children and families to overcome trauma.

WCC offers two distinct programs for foster youth. Our Mental Health and Behavioral Stabilization Program serves youth ages 5-17. Residential placements across Michigan are adapting to changes in the foster care system, with a growing need for specialized services. WCC is responding by enhancing its services and transitioning to a Mental Health and Behavioral Stabilization program to better meet the complex needs of these children. This shift includes expanded therapeutic, psychiatric and aftercare services, along with a dedicated team providing individualized, one-on-one support. These programs are essential to the healing and long-term success of the youth in WCC’s care.

WCC’s Independent Living Program (ILP) supports youth ages 16-19 as they transition out of the foster care system. Recognizing the additional challenges faced by foster youth, especially those impacted by trauma, the ILP provides a safe and supportive environment for continued healing and growth. Through two ILP homes, the program fosters resilience, encourages independence and helps youth build strong relationships and a sense of community. With a focus on empowering each individual, the ILP guides them as they navigate adulthood and create a brighter future.

Are there plans to enhance your services?

Whaley Children’s Center is expanding and enhancing its services by transitioning to a comprehensive Mental Health and Behavioral Stabilization program to better address the complex needs of children in foster care. This shift will include several key improvements including more specialized therapy, in conjunction with trauma-informed care, group counseling, mindfulness activities, music and art therapy, healthy eating initiatives and physical fitness to help our youth manage emotional challenges. Our dedicated team of staff will provide personalized, one-on-one attention to each child, focusing on their specific needs and challenges to create a more supportive, healing environment.

How can the community help?

  • We are in need of brand-new, twin XL bed sheets and comforters, pillows, pillowcases, body wash.

Individuals and businesses can get involved by:

  • Becoming an Event Sponsor
  • Hosting a Giving Tree or Pantry Pals donation
  • drive at their business, church, organization
  • Volunteering
  • Mentoring a youth
  • Attending a Campus Tour
  • Hosting a fundraising event

Our Mission

Whaley Children’s Center empowers children and families to overcome trauma.

Future Events

  • 68th Annual Mott Park Turkey Trot
    November 28, 2024
  • Tux and Tennies Gala & Auction
    May 17, 2025
  • Whaley Golf Classic
    July 14, 2025
  • CARS 108 Roof Sit
    August 13-15, 2025

Leadership

  • Mindy Williams
    President and CEO
  • Amy Anderson
    Chief Operating Officer
  • Randi Beard
    Director of Residential Children’s Services
  • Brandi Brent
    Director of Residential Group Homes
  • Danelle Freeman
    Director of Program Development
  • Nickela Green
    Director of Residential
  • Jennifer Koester
    Chief Advancement Officer
  • Olivia Nagel
    Director of Development
  • Ashleigh Sanders
    Director of Community Development
  • Michelle Shamel
    Chief Program Officer
  • Katrina Taylor
    Director of Finance
  • Melissa Taylor
    Director of Independent Living

Contact

Wreaths Across America

Sponsored By:

Key Services

WAA works all year long to obtain wreath sponsorships to allow the organization to host the annual Wreaths Across America Day in December. Of the 62,000+ souls buried at Great Lakes National Cemetery, over 19,000 were received in 2022.

How can the community help?

WAA would not be successful without the help of volunteers and the generosity of the community and local businesses that offer invaluable support to the WAA mission. You can sponsor wreaths with a donation and volunteer to place wreaths on gravesites of our heroes at Great Lakes National Cemetery. Please visit WreathsAcrossAmerica.org/MI0178.

Our Mission

REMEMBER the fallen, HONOR those who serve and their families, and TEACH the next generation about the value of freedom. Each year, wreath-laying ceremonies are conducted in December at more than 2,100 Cemeteries and other locations in all 50 states and beyond.

Future Events

  • National Wreaths Across America Day
    Great Lakes National Cemetery in Holly, MI
    December 14, 2024
    The ceremony begins promptly at 11am and the truck procession will arrive at 11:30am. Parking will be offsite at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital (Pollock Rd.). From 10am until 2pm, MTA will provide shuttle service every 15-20 minutes from the north parking lot at Henry Ford Genesys Hospital.

Leadership

  • Wayne Hanson
    Chairman
  • Karen Worcester
    Executive Director
  • Matt Hare & Mike McDougall
    Volunteer Location Coordinators

Contact

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