Disability Inclusion

Gala rocks and raises funds to advocate for autistic Michiganders

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) Michigan Shines for Autism Gala, its largest fundraiser, will rock Detroit’s Motor City Casino Hotel on April 25, 2025 with “an electrifying evening blending a black-tie event with a rebellious twist.” 

This is how to do mental health: Community outreach builds access

The staff of Michigan’s community mental health agencies aren’t sitting at their desks waiting for the phone to ring. They are out in their communities letting people know that mental health care is within reach. 

Mark Witte chats with OnPoint staff: from left,  Andre Pierre, Jr., chief administrative officer; Kelly Dingman, accounting supervisor, and Sarah Lumbert, general accountant.
OnPoint: The many professional roles within mental health care

Michigan’s community mental health agencies need more psychiatrists, psychologists, and master’s level social workers, but they also need bachelor’s level social workers, administrative staff,  peer support specialists, accountants, and direct care workers — roles that require no college degree or degrees in areas not relating directly to mental health. 

Meresa Salisbury attends the Baldwin Senior Expo earlier this year.
Disability Network West Michigan’s new Lake County office brings support to rural residents

Disability Network West Michigan’s Lake County office empowers individuals with disabilities, providing essential resources and personalized support while fostering independence.

AAoM's Navigating Autism Today Conference takes place November 15, 2024, in Grand Rapids at the Grand Valley State University Pew Campus L.V. Eberhard Center.
Navigating Autism Today Conference in Grand Rapids focuses on navigating autism for a lifetime

The Autism Alliance of Michigan (AAoM) is preparing for its upcoming Nov. 15 Navigating Autism Today Conference in Grand Rapids. The event connects families and autistic individuals with resources and support networks on critical topics: financial planning, health care advocacy, employment, and independent living solutions for adults on the spectrum.

OUCARES day camps create a space where autistic kids don’t feel judged, gain some independence from parents, and interact with peers.
Summertime is “a time of possibilities” and challenges for autistic kids and adults

Summer break creates opportunities for fun and family adventures along with the challenges of changing routines.

La recopilación de datos está desempeñando un papel clave en el avance de la equidad en la salud

Un nuevo impulso en la recopilación de datos sobre la atención médica de las personas con discapacidad está poniendo de relieve una disparidad en la equidad de la atención de la salud que a menudo pasa desapercibida para la comunidad médica.

Addressing cultural, language barriers that hinder health equity

Many people from refugee, immigrant, and migrant communities experience significant logistical barriers to COVID-19 vaccination. That’s where Disability Rights Michigan has stepped in to increase access

Sensory-friendly spaces play key role in improving health equity

The Autism Alliance of Michigan has been a leader in encouraging clinics to create safe spaces by including sensory rooms.  

When it comes to autism and mental health, stigma and discrimination play a huge role

Being autistic does not mean a person cannot experience good mental health. However, studies have shown that 78% of autistic children have at least one mental health condition. Stigma and discrimination are often a contributing factor.

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