United Way of the West Shore Grows Its Community Advocate Network

United Way of the West Shore is expanding its community advocate network in Mason and Manistee counties. This initiative follows new support from the Rural Health Transformation Program administered by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services. The organization, which resulted from a merger between United Way of Manistee County and United Way of Mason County, is actively recruiting for new advocate positions as part of this expansion.

Hiring School and Older Adult Resource Advocates

To deliver on the program’s mission, United Way of the West Shore is hiring dedicated professionals for positions as school resource advocates and older adult advocates. These new roles are designed to be embedded directly in local institutions, including both school districts and senior centers throughout Mason and Manistee counties.

Role of School Resource Advocates

The newly created School Resource Advocates will serve within local school districts across the counties. Their primary purpose is to connect students and families with essential health and behavioral support, as well as educational and community resources. These advocates are positioned to foster student success and enhance family well-being by removing barriers that may hinder access to necessary support systems.

Older Adult Advocates and Senior Support

The initiative also places Older Adult Resource Advocates within senior centers in Mason and Manistee counties. These advocates will work directly with older adults and family caregivers, aiming to navigate complex healthcare and support systems. The goal is to break down obstacles to independent living and help older adults age in place safely and comfortably within their communities.

Grant Support from the Rural Health Transformation Program

The expansion is made possible by grant funding from the Rural Health Transformation Program. This support enables United Way of the West Shore to address gaps in health, behavioral health, and community support, with advocates integrating these services in schools and senior centers.

Leadership Perspective

Lynne Russell, executive director of United Way of the West Shore, emphasized the importance of the program: “We are very excited to expand our School Resource Advocate services into Manistee County schools and Mason County Eastern, while also creating Older Adult Resource Advocate positions at senior centers throughout Mason and Manistee counties. By placing Resource Advocates directly in schools and senior centers, we can help remove barriers, connect people with the resources they need, and help older adults age safely and comfortably in their own communities.”

Application Information

Interested candidates can find full position descriptions, location details, and application instructions by visiting unitedwayofthewestshore.org/join-our-team.

United Way of the West Shore’s Regional Commitment

United Way of the West Shore aims to address complex regional challenges and foster lasting positive change in Mason and Manistee counties. With offices located in Ludington and Manistee, the organization continues its focus on strengthening local support systems for students, families, and seniors.

Source: manisteenews.com.