As the Recovery Action Network of Michigan (RANMI) wraps up its first full calendar year, we are filled with gratitude, pride, and excitement for what lies ahead. 2024 has been a year of growth, collaboration, and impact—all driven by our mission to empower individuals and families affected by addiction by providing a safe and supportive community where they can find hope, inspiration, resources, and achieve long-term recovery.
Building a Foundation for Recovery
In our inaugural year, RANMI focused on establishing strong foundations to support individuals in recovery. We hired dedicated staff, developed critical community partnerships, and expanded our network of recovery allies. From local law enforcement to treatment courts and recovery-oriented organizations, these collaborations have been instrumental in our mission.
Our key partnerships included Growth Works, Hegira Health, Face Addiction Now (FAN), The Phoenix, and the PC Alano Club. We also worked closely with Passenger Recovery, River’s Bend, Plymouth-Canton Community Schools, and local businesses. Together, we advanced access to life-saving resources like naloxone (Narcan) and ensured continuity of care across Wayne County. Additionally, in collaboration with Western Wayne Family Health Centers in Inkster, we began hosting a MARA (Medication-Assisted Recovery Anonymous) meeting, providing a vital resource for individuals who value medication as a recovery path. Another significant achievement was our partnership with the Well Wayne Initiative, which led to the installation of a Narcan porch box outside our facility, further expanding access to this life-saving medication.
Events That Made an Impact
Throughout the year, RANMI organized and participated in numerous events that brought people together, raised awareness, and celebrated recovery:
- National Recovery Month (September): We hosted events like the Recovery Nature Walk, Detroit Sober Fest, and an Apple Orchard Recovery Outing. The highlight was distributing over 70 Narcan kits to students and staff during the School Days event at Schoolcraft College.
- Overdose Awareness Week (August): Executive Director Allison Herrst spoke at Hegira’s SUD conference and participated in the moving “Time to Remember. Time to ACT” overdose awareness event.
- Global Peer Support Day: In collaboration with Growth Works, Hegira Health, and FAN, we celebrated peer professionals with a taco bar, games, and door prizes.
- Community Fun: From our bowling bash launch party “Rolling to Recovery” to the Dances with Dirt relay in Hell, Michigan, we embraced the joy and camaraderie of recovery.
Advocating for Recovery-Oriented Systems of Care
This year, RANMI took significant strides in advocacy and education. Executive Director Allison Herrst presented at conferences and workshops, including the Recovery Leadership Summit in Denver and the Hope Empowerment Coalition’s Mental Health Conference in Redford. At the latter, she educated school professionals on recovery-oriented systems of care and navigating eating disorder and substance use recovery. These efforts aim to break barriers, integrate services, and inspire professionals to engage with recovery support systems.
Addressing Challenges with Determination
Like any new organization, RANMI faced challenges. From navigating the complexities of grant funding to building the infrastructure of a nonprofit organization, we remained steadfast in our commitment to solutions. Despite these hurdles, we’ve grown stronger and more determined to create meaningful change.
Looking Ahead
As we step into 2025, we’re excited to deepen our partnerships, expand programming, and open new doors for recovery. We are looking forward to collaborating with Sanford Behavioral Health, Michigan State Police, and the Metro West Alano Club in the coming year. Additionally, we are thrilled to continue offering ongoing Overdose Prevention and Narcan Training in collaboration with Canton Leisure Services. These initiatives, alongside our continuous work with local treatment courts, will further enhance the recovery-ready community we’re building.
To everyone who has supported us this year—thank you. Your belief in RANMI’s mission fuels our passion and drives our success. Here’s to another year of recovery, hope, and community!
Stay connected: Follow us on social media and visit our website to stay updated on upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and ways to support RANMI.
Together, we are building a recovery-ready Michigan.
Recovery Action Network of Michigan 