Kathy Rager, our long-time President/CEO, retired at the end of January.  On February 1st, I took over the role as President/CEO at CARE of Southeastern Michigan.  It is an honor to become the leader of an organization that has touched the lives of thousands of individuals in Macomb County and throughout southeastern Michigan.  I began work at the agency in 2005 as a Community Specialist with the Family to Family program.  I left CARE to assist in the opening of a family learning center in northwest Detroit.  In 2008, I returned to CARE as the Deputy Director.  I am excited as I begin my new role at the agency. 

As I started transitioning into my new role at the agency, I have been asked the questions “What do you see as the future for CARE of Southeastern Michigan?”  and “Do you see a lot of change happening?”  While I do believe in the old adage that “the only constant in life is change,” I do see the organization staying committed to our mission and the core work of the agency.  We are committed  to:

Providing parenting programs.  Parents are key in creating healthy children and strong
communities. 

Alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention.  Preventing the misuse and abuse of substances helps to create vibrant communities that are safe places for children to grow and mature.

Supporting  youth and adults seeking substance abuse treatment, mental health treatment, and other services. 

Working with people in recovery and staying committed to the recovery movement. 
Partnering and working with other community organizations.  For many years, CARE has been committed to collaborating and partnering with other nonprofits, public entities, businesses, schools, and the faith based community. We will continue working with other organizations to best meet the needs of the communities we serve.

While I do not have a crystal ball to see all of the change ahead, some change that I do see includes the following:

Continued growth and diversity of our programs.   Over the years, CARE of Southeastern Michigan has taken on new projects to meet changing community needs.  We will continue to do this.

Health reform impacting the agency.  While it is unclear how the agency will be impacted, the changing health care delivery system will likely change some of the work we do.  Hopefully, it will mean greater access for substance abuse treatment and other needed services for the most vulnerable in the community.

Seeking new and different funding for the agency.  While we have a diverse number of funding sources, CARE of Southeastern Michigan will continue to seek new funding opportunities to support our programs.

A shift in alcohol, tobacco, and other drug prevention to promote overall wellness of the person.  This may include healthy eating, suicide prevention, and more.

During this period of transition, please feel free to contact me with questions or suggestions.  In addition, please consider making a financial contribution to CARE of Southeastern Michigan.  Your support helps our many children’s programs including summer camp, student assistance, and assists children seeking treatment.