The Annual Self-Help Conference held August 24th at Lansing Community College offered workshops about several topics. The workshop provided by Brian Wellwood, Executive Director of the Justice In Mental Health Organization (JIMHO), focused on drop-in center philosophy. JIMHO is contracted through the Michigan Department of Community Health (MDCH) to replicate the consumer-run model throughout Michigan. In this workshop Brian emphasized the significant role that peer support and support groups play in a consumer-run organizations. Games and other activities help build relationships and mutual support. Regular outings promote community inclusion. Brian also pointed out that drop-ins are accessible to people who may not be eligible for publicly-funded mental health services.
Additional conference workshops focused on art, quilting, poetry, gardening, cooking and more. The workshops and raffle were enjoyed by all.
View picture from Self-Help Conference:
Brian Wellwood and Kathy Bennett
By LaTia Chappell. CPSS
Michigan Recovery Center of Excellence