Community Conversation — October 18, 2024
- April Sousa
- Sep 28, 2024
- 1 min read
Updated: Mar 20
This is a time for members of the CMREN Community to come together to learn how to interact with veterans, their families, and their caregivers regarding military benefits available to those with substance use disorders.

Veteran Keynote & Panelists
James Yates, IREACH - Rural Veterans, Project Manager
Brian Webb, MDHHS/BPHASA Veteran Liaison,
Walking With Warriors Project Lead
Todd Butler, Michigan Veterans Affairs Agency, Deputy Director
Many Veterans receive care in the community. Learn how you can help connect Veterans, their families, and their caregivers with military benefits, including Substance Use Disorder and Mental Health services. We know connection to these resources saves lives and improves quality of life. Plus, increased enrollment in healthcare leads to increased utilization. Learn how to join the VA Community Care Network, and discover how VA referrals and billing can help your facility recoup service costs.
Housing Keynote & Panelists
Lori Johnson, EightCAP, Executive Director
Mary Trucks, FiveCAP, Executive Director
Eva Rohlman, Mid-Michigan Community Action Agency, Outreach and Opportunities Director Brian McGrain, Michigan Community Action, Executive Director
Understanding the vital role of Community Action in addressing housing crises, particularly for populations affected by substance use disorders. We will identify housing barriers, highlight collaborative solutions within our networks, and explore ideas for systems change along with current policy advocacy models. Your insights and experiences would be invaluable in shaping our conversation.
Ferris State University, Eisler L. David Center
8 AM Continental Breakfast
8:30 AM Opening Remarks
12 PM Lunch & Community Conversation
1 PM Event Conclude




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