October 13, 2023

MESSAGE FROM OUR CEO: THANK YOU TO

 OUR CASE MANAGERS DURING

CASE MANAGER APPRECIATION WEEK

As we celebrate Case Manager Appreciation Week, I want to take a moment to express my deepest gratitude to our exceptional case managers and the invaluable work they do every day.

Our Case Managers, whether they are in the roles of Case Manager across our House, Health, and Well-Being pillars, play a crucial role in our mission to provide high-quality care and support to our clients. Their dedication, compassion, and unwavering commitment are the cornerstones of NSO's success in making a difference in the lives of the individuals and families we serve.

In the world of healthcare and social services, case managers are the bridge between our clients and the resources they need to achieve positive outcomes. They assess, coordinate, plan, and implement client-centered care plans, ensuring that our clients receive the support and care they require. They connect members of the interdisciplinary care team to maximize services and benefits while improving client satisfaction and reducing healthcare costs.

I want to recognize the many responsibilities that our case managers shoulder, including making in-person visits, completing assessments, case plans, and patient-centered care plans, providing client education, monitoring progress toward treatment goals, and ensuring clients are compliant with their treatment plans and medication regimens. Their work is instrumental in enhancing the quality of life for our clients. Our Case Managers under our Housing pillar also help pair housing and an emergency shelter with care, extensive case management, and supportive services, not only ending homelessness but promoting health equity and well-being while uplifting and developing the community.

As we acknowledge Case Manager Appreciation Week, let us take a moment to celebrate the dedication and hard work of our case managers. They embody the values of NSO and are a testament to our commitment to providing the best care possible. Their ability to navigate electronic healthcare records, collaborate with specialists, and ensure compliance with policies and regulations is vital to our success.

I would like to extend my appreciation to our case managers for going above and beyond to serve our clients. Your dedication and hard work do not go unnoticed, and your impact on the communities we serve is immeasurable.

Thank you for your exceptional service, and I look forward to witnessing the continued positive impact you make in the lives of our clients. Happy Case Manager Appreciation Week!

I'd like to thank each and every one of our Case Managers:

1.      Ifeanyi Amadi

2.      Joseph Arocho

3.      Rascha Azakir

4.      Farzana Begum

5.      Jennifer Bardon

6.      Juanita Bradley

7.      LaTease Brooks

8.      Donnell Cargill

9.      Nerael Connally

10.  Destiny Crawford

11.  Sherri Crowell

12.  Jacqueline Dixon

13.  Andrea Dodson

14.  Patricia Douglas

15.  Courtne Edge

16.  Lashaundra Ferguson

17.  Lawanda Gardner

18.  Patrinia Grayson

19.  Christina Hadley

20.  Samina Hudson

21.  Kathy Hudson

22.  Bajamba Jatta

23.  Andrea Johnson

1.      Brittany LeFlore

2.      Niccala Lee

3.      Jennifer Lembesis

4.      Gloria Lyons

5.      Darlene McMichael

6.      Shayla Nichols

7.      Tammy Patton

8.      Carl Pettway

9.      Angela Pittman

10.  Robbin Royster

11.  Emily Sibbersen

12.  Jennifer Sykes

13.  Merritt Taylor

14.  Debra Thornton-Everett

15.  Tonya Weaver

16.  Elmer Whittaker

17.  Rhonda Williams

18.  Cassandra Williams

19.  Jennifer Williams

20.  Ali Mohamed 

21.  Gwendolyn Wright

22.  Renee Peters

23.  Tonya Weaver

President and CEO,

Linda Little

In the world of social work and community support, there are stories like the remarkable transformation of Tanya Jennings, an NSO client, who, with the unwavering support and guidance of her dedicated case manager, Karen Womack, has made a truly inspiring journey toward independence and self-confidence.

Tanya Jennings, initially hesitant to embrace an independent life, found herself facing a crossroads in her life. Karen Womack, a compassionate and resourceful case manager at NSO, recognized Tanya's determination to rebuild her life and take control of her destiny. With Karen's expertise and support, Tanya embarked on a transformative journey towards self-sufficiency.

Under Karen's and NSO's guidance, Tanya worked diligently to develop essential life skills, from effective collaboration with others to taking on leadership roles. Additionally, she sought therapy services from NSO to address the emotional and mental barriers that had held her back. Tanya's commitment to personal growth was unwavering, and she soon took her first significant step towards independence by becoming an Outreach Coordinator for the Turning Point Clubhouse.

Over the course of one year, Tanya underwent a remarkable 180-degree transformation. She not only gained the life skills necessary for independence but also nurtured her self-esteem through consistent therapy. Emerging from a challenging and dark chapter in her life, Tanya achieved another significant milestone. Her dedication and hard work led to her employment success, earning her a prestigious Certificate of Accomplishment, which the Mayor of Dearborn, Michigan, personally presented.

Tanya's journey of triumph didn't stop there. As a heartfelt gesture of gratitude and appreciation, she invited her devoted case manager, Karen Womack, to her award ceremony. Tanya now stands as a living testament to the power of perseverance and the support provided by NSO. She actively encourages others to seek services at NSO and embrace their own path to independence.

This remarkable success story is a testament to the dedication of individuals like Karen Womack, the resilience of clients like Tanya Jennings, and the transformative impact of the services provided by NSO. It is a beacon of hope and inspiration for all who aspire to overcome adversity and build a brighter future.

In a powerful and enlightening BLKHLTH Conversations event, Dr. Amirsadri, the esteemed Clinical Associate Chair and Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Wayne State University and the Medical Director for Psychiatric Services at NSO, played a pivotal role on the panel. The event centered around addressing the pressing challenges that Black communities face at the intersection of racism and health.

Dr. Amirsadri, a renowned figure with a history of recognition, including multiple appearances on the list of Best Doctors in Michigan and being named Physician of the Year by NAMI Michigan in 2017, brought his wealth of expertise to the fore. He currently serves as the Principal Investigator for a groundbreaking program designed for first responders in Michigan, all while juggling clinical, teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.

The event, hosted by Phil Lewis, featured a distinguished panel, including Dr. Amirsadri, Dr. Femi Kassim, Adria Moses, and Jonathan Edwards, LMSW, who shared their insights and experiences. These experts engaged in a thought-provoking discussion that shed light on the unique challenges Black communities face.

The event provided a platform for vital discussions and offered an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals and access valuable local resources. Attendees enjoyed the vibrant atmosphere with DJs, on-site health resources and services, and delicious food provided by Bert's Marketplace.

BLKHLTH Conversations fostered an environment where important issues were discussed, a sense of community was built, and connections were made.

Look for a full video recap in the coming weeks.

Help us welcome our shelter residents to their new homes in a warm and kind way. Stability is highly important for the population we serve. Help us set them up for success by gifting them with a bundle of the listed supplies. You can purchase items through NSO's Amazon Wishlist or schedule a drop-off arrangement by contacting corporateaffairs@nso-mi.org.

Mix 92.3's Sista Strut returns on Saturday, October 14th at Spirit Plaza in Downtown Detroit. The community is invited to participate in this tradition of raising awareness about Breast Cancer. A $30 donation goes a long way in supporting breast cancer patients in Metro Detroit through Game On Cancer, part of Henry Ford Health, and includes a special custom bandana for participants. Both individual sign-ups and team participation are encouraged.

The event has exciting additions, with Detroit's own Kem serving as the Celebrity Ambassador Host to kick off the strut, along with a live performance from the Detroit Youth Choir. Attendees can also look forward to food trucks, live entertainment, and abundant fun activities.

Whether one is a survivor, a supporter of someone battling breast cancer, or simply wishes to honor a loved one, this event is for everyone, and families are encouraged to attend.

Mix 92.3's Sista Strut at Spirit Plaza in downtown Detroit, presented by Henry Ford Health, your unwavering advocate in cancer prevention and treatment, promises to be a memorable day.

Event Details:

Spirit of Detroit Plaza

2 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI 48226

Check-in begins at 8:00 a.m., and the program officially commences at 9:00 a.m.

Access points are available at Jefferson Ave. and Larned St. Don't forget to bring your ID for entry.

This annual observance of Breast Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful reminder of the importance of early detection, awareness, and solidarity in the fight against breast cancer. It is a time for us to unite as a community to inspire hope, foster education, and advocate for progress.

Breast cancer is a diagnosis that touches countless lives, either directly or indirectly. It is a disease transcending age, race, and gender, affecting individuals and families from all walks of life. However, through knowledge, support, and action, we can make a significant impact in the battle against breast cancer.

How to support Breast Cancer Awareness:

Regular Screenings: We cannot overstate the importance of regular breast cancer screenings, such as mammograms and clinical breast exams. Early detection is key to successful treatment, and we urge everyone to schedule their screenings and encourage their loved ones to do the same.

Support and Encouragement: For those currently battling breast cancer, survivors, and their families, we offer our unwavering support and encouragement.

Community Unity: We encourage our community to unite, wearing pink to support breast cancer survivors, caregivers, and all those affected by this disease.

Wayne Metro is hosting a Keep My Home Webinar to help homeowners understand repayment options, learn tips on how to communicate with their servicer, and learn who to contact if a financial hardship occurs.

The webinar takes place on Wednesday, October 18th from 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm and is virtual via Zoom.

Suicide is the 12th leading cause of death in the U.S., and it can be prevented. If you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide,

please call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org. You can also reach Crisis Text Line by texting MHA to 741741.