Author

Estelle Slootmaker

Estelle Slootmaker's Latest Articles

Navigating autism now more difficult for Michiganders

Autism Alliance of Michigan has laid off 75% of staff due to unexpected state funding cut.

True community mental health: How one county’s CMH board ensures care is relevant

Alice Kelsey shares why she serves and how citizen boards help CMHs provide better care to county residents.

Innovation and advocacy: Building the early childhood workforce

If implemented, the many innovative solutions for building the early childhood workforce could have phenomenal results.

Pulse collaboration with MiLeap seeks to transform child care access in Michigan

The Pulse initiative is transforming early childhood in Michigan by bridging the gap between research and practice.

Community mental health agency integrates care with onsite primary care and pharmacy

Summit Pointe CEO says, “Proximity doesn't always work, but co-location does.”

Matthew Verley drops off his son Lil' Matt at child care.
Access to affordable, reliable child care as vital for dads as moms

People often think of child care as a women's or a mother's issue. However, access to affordable, reliable, high quality child care equally benefits fathers. 

Matthew Verley drops off his son Lil' Matt at child care.
Access to affordable, reliable child care as vital for dads as moms

People often think of child care as a women's or a mother's issue. However, access to affordable, reliable, high quality child care equally benefits fathers. 

Sanilac County CMH CEO Wilbert Morris presents iPad to Sanilac County Sheriff Paul Rich
Meeting rural Michiganders’ mental health care needs

Michigan’s rural residents face different challenges when accessing mental health care than residents of urban areas. Transportation issues, loneliness, and limited group therapy options can compound their mental health needs. To address these challenges, community mental health (CMH) agencies like Sanilac County Community Mental Health innovate community-based solutions that meet their populations where they are at.   

Julie Molenda
SBAM Nurture Benefits program enhances compensation for child care providers

The Small Business Association of Michigan Nurture Benefits will expand access to health insurance, life insurance, and retirement savings for Michigan's child care providers.  

Lock Arms and Unite for Autism: Campaign commits to continued advocacy and support

AAOM’s current fundraising campaign, Lock Arms and Unite for Autism seeks to raise $31,000 to support its services for the one in 31 people diagnosed with autism in Michigan. 

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