Did you know that the CSN Fund may be able to assist you with specialty equipment and services not covered by insurance or other programs?
Michigan CSN Fund website: https://www.michigan.gov/csnfund
Contact Oakland County CSHCS for more information: 248-858-0056
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Springtime is one of the most beautiful times to be in Michigan. It’s a time of sunshine and new beginnings. It’s crisp air, budding flower gardens, and a promise to return to more time spent outdoors with loved ones and neighbors.
While we often don’t associate springtime with illness, it is a great time to reflect on ways to safeguard our health. One way, especially if you enjoy the outdoors and public spaces, is to get vaccinated for Hepatitis B. Hepatitis B is a tough virus, it can live on surfaces for up to 7 days or longer, can live in the body unnoticed for years, and eventually causes liver cancer and liver failure. Luckily, there is a great way to protect yourself through vaccination. The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommends vaccination for Hepatitis B at birth within the first 24 hours of life. If infected, newborns are at increased risk of developing harmful complications. The American Academy of Family Physicians (AAFP) recommends any adult who needs or wants protection to get the vaccine. There are an estimated 2.2 million people living with Hepatitis B in the USA. According to the AAFP, approximately 25% of children and 15% of adults with the infection will die prematurely. However, with proper vaccination, the likelihood of infection is extremely low.
Vaccines continue to be one of the most safe, effective, and easiest ways to protect against a host of diseases. This season, take the opportunity to talk to your doctor about Hepatitis B and other available vaccinations. We can think of no better way to spring into warmer weather than to protect the health of ourselves and loved ones.
Resources to Explore:
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Oakland County Parks offers recreational opportunities for all abilities through Adaptive Recreation. The Adaptive Recreation Spring calendar will be available soon. Visit the website to learn more about upcoming events and resources!
https://www.oakgov.com/community/oakland-county-parks/recreation/adaptive-recreation
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 Michigan Alliance for Families (MAF) provides information, education, and support for families with students (from birth to age 26) who receive (or may be eligible to receive) early intervention or special education services.
The work of MAF is done by Regional Parent Mentors (RPMs) and supported by central Information and Referral staff, all of whom are family members of individuals with disabilities. Regional Parent Mentors can connect families of children with disabilities to resources to help improve their children’s education and mentor them in becoming a more active participant in their child’s Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) or Individualized Education Program (IEP).
MAF helps facilitate parent involvement as a means of improving educational services and outcomes for students with disabilities. No matter where you are in Michigan, you can connect with a Regional Parent Mentor in your part of the state. Additionally, MAF has two mentors providing statewide assistance to Arabic-speaking and Spanish-speaking families.
MAF offers a full calendar of statewide virtual learning opportunities and regional small-group learning, including live and on demand webinars, videos, and courses. Families can watch 55+ different webinars and video presentations at home, at their own pace at www.youtube.com/michiganalliance.
Our recorded webinar presentations have been closed-captioned through a partnership with Michigan Department of Education’s Center for Educational Networking (CEN). Accommodations are available for all our live learning opportunities.
 For more resources, visit: www.michiganallianceforfamilies.org, or call 1.800.552.4821.
Para Español, 313.217.1060 | 248.963.0607, اﻟﻌﺮﺑﻴﻪ ﻟﻠﻐﻪ
Email: info@michiganallianceforfamilies.org
Monthly e-newsletter & event notification system. Newsletter - Michigan Alliance for Families
 At DNEM, we are dedicated to empowering individuals with disabilities to live independent and fulfilling lives. Through our programs and services, we have helped thousands of people gain access to transportation, healthcare services, and assistive technology.
Our team of dedicated staff members work tirelessly to answer information and referral requests, providing valuable resources and support to those in need.
DNEM has adaptive recreation and wellness programs. These programs provide opportunities for people to connect, learn new skills and have fun in a welcoming environment. Also available is peer support which connects with others who understand the challenges and triumphs of living with a disability. To register, visit https://dnem.recdesk.com/Community/Home . For questions or accommodation requests, email REC-IT@DNEMichigan.org or call 586-268-4160.
DNEM also has free services that help young people with disabilities navigate from high school to successful adult life.
Youth Transition Services
Transition services help young people with disabilities navigate from high school to successful adult life. Our Community Resource Advocates use a person-centered and holistic approach to prepare youth, young adults, and their families for post-secondary education, employment, and independent living. Our Community Resource Advocates are your partners in individualized advocacy.
We can support understanding of:
- Guardianship or alternatives
- Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA)
- Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA)
- Disability Pride
We can link you to community resources:
- Medicaid, Community Mental Health, or other support services
- Recreation & leisure opportunities
- Educational events for parents, youth, and families
Contact Dylan Duvall for more information or accommodation requests:
586-268-4160, ext. 6624 or DDuvall@DNEMichigan.org
Visit https://www.dnemichigan.org/ to learn more about DNEM!
Centro Multicultural La Familia (Centro) is a multicultural non-profit organization dedicated to the healing and empowerment of survivors, young people, elders, immigrants, and the vibrant communities that call Southeast Michigan home. Our services are wrap-around and culturally responsive, and include:
- Support for victims of crimes
- Community Support
- Empowerment and Education for Youth
- Business and Entrepreneurship
- Mental Health counseling
- Access to Health
- Parenting programs
- Creative programming, including radio, TV, streaming media, and holistic community workshops
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 Services are available in Spanish and English, with some programs offered in Portuguese, Arabic, and French.
QR code that links to our website, social media, and other important resources:
Oakland County Foster Closet (OCFC) is a volunteer-run nonprofit dedicated to supporting children impacted by foster care, kinship care, and crisis situations throughout the Tri-County Area. Founded 12 years ago by a foster parent who saw firsthand the urgent need for dignity-driven resources, OCFC provides clothing, hygiene items, toys, school supplies, birthday bags, and essential household items—completely free of charge. Serving hundreds of children each month, OCFC operates with 100% volunteers and 100% donated goods to ensure children feel respected, valued, and cared for during times of transition. Learn more or get involved at www.ocfostercloset.org .
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 For nearly 60 years, The Arc of Oakland County has been a trusted advocate for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, our mission is simple yet powerful: to promote full participation, protect rights, strengthen families, and improve systems of support.
We believe every person deserves opportunity, dignity, and a voice and we work every day to make that belief a reality.
COMPREHENSIVE ADVOCACY & SUPPORT SERVICES
At The Arc of Oakland County, we provide guidance across every stage of life. Our knowledgeable advocates help families navigate complex systems and make informed decisions with confidence.
Information & Referral
We connect individuals and families to essential community resources including educational programs, employment services, residential supports, healthcare providers, and legal services.
Special Education Advocacy
Our team assists parents and guardians in preparing for Individualized Education Plan (IEP) meetings under federal and Michigan special education law, ensuring students receive appropriate supports and services.
Legal Advocacy & Supported Decision-Making
We help families explore options such as powers of attorney, patient advocate designations, guardianship, and supported decision-making arrangements. Our legal team also assists with probate matters and future planning strategies.
Governmental & Financial Benefits
Navigating disability benefits can be overwhelming. We provide guidance on programs such as Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI), Medicaid, Medicare, ABLE accounts, and more.
Financial Management Services (FMS)
As a contracted provider with Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN), we serve as a payroll agent for individuals who choose Self-Determination. We process payroll, assist with budget monitoring, and ensure compliance with Medicaid and Individual Plan of Service (IPOS) guidelines.
Advocacy Resource Center
Our Advocacy Resource Center supports individuals, families, and Direct Support Professionals by helping them navigate complex systems and access training and community resources.
SPOTLIGHT ON THE FOREVER PLAN
A Lifetime of Advocacy. A Future with Peace of Mind.
One of our most impactful programs is The Forever Plan, a comprehensive, lifelong advocacy program created to answer one of the most important questions families face:
“Who will care for my loved one when I no longer can?”
The Forever Plan is a personalized, formal lifetime advocacy program that provides ongoing oversight, coordination, and long-term consistency for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
What Makes The Forever Plan Unique?
Unlike short-term planning tools, The Forever Plan is built to last a lifetime. We become a steady presence in your loved one’s life, providing advocacy, coordination, and reassurance through life’s transitions.
Services may include:
- Serving as Trustee
- Serving as Representative Payee for government benefits
- Acting as guardian, standby guardian, or supported decision-maker
- Attending Person-Centered Planning meetings
- Visiting individuals in their homes
- Coordinating with community providers
- Navigating benefits and service systems
Families enrolled in The Forever Plan gain peace of mind knowing that, no matter what changes, their loved one will always have a trusted advocate in their corner.
With nearly sixty decades of advocacy experience and deep knowledge of Michigan’s disability systems, The Arc of Oakland County provides compassionate, consistent partnership for the long term.
A COMMUNITY COMMITTED TO INCLUSION
Beyond direct services, The Arc of Oakland County strengthens our community through public policy advocacy, family engagement, and events such as our annual Dove Awards, which celebrate individuals who enhance the lives of people with disabilities.
JOIN US
Whether you are planning for the future, navigating today’s challenges, or seeking trusted advocacy, The Arc of Oakland County is here to help.
To learn more about our programs including The Forever Plan, contact our office at 248-816-1900 or visit www.thearcoakland.org.
Together, we are building a future where every individual is valued, supported, and empowered for life. Let us help you live your BEST life!
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