United is the Way to Build Resilient Communities
Building Stronger Communities Together: How Partnerships Enhance Mental Health Support
This past President’s Day, leaders from Isabella Community Credit Union (ICCU) and Mid Michigan non-profits joined together to complete Mental Health First Aid training. Mental Health First Aid is a public education program designed to teach people how to identify, understand, and respond to signs of mental health challenges, substance use disorders, and crises. It’s like traditional first aid but focused on mental health, with the goal of providing initial help and support to someone who may be developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis.
Jenny Hoyle, President & CEO of ICCU shared why they offered this training, saying: “Given the pressures people face today, mental wellbeing is essential for their peace and success. With this in mind, ICCU chose to partner with the Great Lakes Bay Regional Mental Health Partnership to provide adult mental health first aid training at its annual leadership enrichment day to ensure all of our managers and supervisors are equipped to assist those around them experiencing mental health challenges. With extra seats available for this important training, we invited nonprofit community leaders to join us, further enhancing the valuable services they provide to community members who may benefit most.”
After completing a 2-hour, self-paced online course, “First Aiders” participated in a 6-hour, in-person, instructor-led class. Participants learned how to apply a core component of the training, the ALGEE action plan: Assess for risk of suicide or harm. Listen non-judgmentally. Give reassurance and information. Encourage professional help. Encourage self-help and other support strategies.
The Power of Partnership
This collaborative effort between ICCU and local nonprofits demonstrates how businesses and community organizations can work together to make a tangible difference in community health. By offering training to both ICCU staff and nonprofit leaders, this partnership not only equipped individuals to respond effectively to mental health challenges but also strengthened the broader support network within the community. “Attending the Mental Health First Aid training at no cost was an incredible opportunity for our organization. At United Way, we work with the ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) population daily. Because ALICE individuals and families often don’t have a safety net, when they are reaching out for support, they’re often in crisis, facing eviction or utility shut off. This partnership allowed us to equip our team with essential skills to better support community members who are in crisis or facing mental health challenges,” says Brittany Stoneman, Community Impact Manager.
Partnerships like these reflect a commitment to fostering resilient, compassionate communities where mental health is prioritized. By pooling resources and sharing knowledge, for-profit and nonprofit organizations can maximize their positive impact and build a stronger, healthier future for everyone. Thank you, ICCU, for your continued partnership and your commitment to building a stronger community together.
If you are experiencing a suicidal, substance use, and/or mental health crisis, or any other kind of emotional distress, or if you are worried about someone who may need crisis support dial 988.
To learn more about the Great Lakes Bay Region Mental Health Partnership, visit www.greatlakesbay.com/mentalhealth.
ICCU is a United Way Signature Partner. Signature Partners support United Way’s special events and marketing programs, eliminating multiple sponsorship requests. Donors appreciate corporate and organizational sponsorships that underwrite these operational costs because they ensure that individual contributions have greater impact. Learn more about becoming a partner here.