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“For 20 years I was overcome by addiction. Your compassion matters." — Shane Fountain Short Videos

The Central Michigan Recovery and Education Network of Ferris State University (CMREN-FSU) showcases the impact of collaboration, recovery support, and community partnerships across five-counties (Lake, Mecosta, Montcalm, Newaygo and Osceola). CMREN-FSU launched a 2026 Summer Gas Station TV Campaign (June-August), to expand awareness of recovery resources and strengthen community connections across the region. Short videos are airing at 22 gas station locations on 152 pumps,

“People who use substances do not need to be rescued they need, they need someone who will empower them." — Kate Behrenwald

“What we need to begin to begin to do for patience, is to see the person with unconditional positive regard." — Kate Behrenwald

“Since I have changed by mind about ending life and living a healthy life and free of alcohol has resulted in a life that is exploding with goodness and blessing beyond my imagination." — Heidi Woldhuis

“When people are connected to the appropriate supplies, risk is going down and people are being bridged to care" — Kate Behrenwald

“I feel like a supportive community can be a lifeline to those with substance use disorder." — Lori Shears

“Being sober has aloud me to put myself in a position to where I do have the perfect ecosystem." — Chris Hancock

“Get rid of those preconceived ideas, with the knowledge of what is actual truth" — Paula Beilfulls

“No one wakes up in the morning and say, 'I hope to be an addict today'." — Rob Poehl

“Never give up. Know that you are worth it.” — Josh Guernsey, In Recovery

During the initial strength, weakness, opportunities, threat (SWOT) analysis, CMREN-FSU identified employment as an opportunity to create sustainable solutions for lasting recovery. The housing sub-committee explored best-practice workplace friendly models, finding Michigan Recovery Friendly Workplace (RFW). In April, the network invited RFW to share an overview with the partners during the two monthly social determinate of health meeting. (Recording above) A Recovery Frie

Finding a mannequin suitable for naloxone administration training is not a simple task. CMREN-FSU was able to collaborate with the Ferris State University Innovation Center, College of Engineering and Technology. Evan Hoekman, a Plastics Engineering Technology major, used his innovative skills to create just what was needed, a reusable, cleanable, plastic face with a flexible nose and open nostrils in which one can insert a naloxone nasal spray dosing device. Network partner

CMREN hosted the first annual SUD Data Summit on the campus of Ferris State University on November 19, 2025. The goal of this summit was to build a better recovery and wellness ecosystem through better understanding of the SUD data, data-informed interventions, and related opportunities. The summit objectives were to provide attendees with a solid understanding of the present state of data within the region and adjacent areas, to build connections amongst professionals and pr

District Health Department #10 (DHD#10) is hosting 10 community summits throughout the 10-county jurisdiction to highlight local data from the 2024 MiThrive Community Health Assessment and to gather input from community members on the proposed 2025 Community Health Improvement Plan. Focus areas identified are Mental Health and Substance Use Disorder, Access to Care, Chronic Disease and Healthy Weight, and Economic Security. Join us on one of the dates listed on the Flyer t

The MiThrive Data Platform provides a one-stop resource for online access to hundreds of community health indicators and related resources that impact the health of Northern Michigan, including demographic, health and social determinants data, downloadable maps and tables, and capacity building resources. This webinar series will provide an overview of the platform and teach participants how to utilize its key features, including how to navigate the platform, how to build a