Accomplishing What Matters: Collective Accomplishments through Partnerships and Volunteering
Accomplishing What Matters 006: by Kathy Dollard Psy.D., L.P. of MyMichigan Health
Pictured are volunteers from MyMichigan Health, Midland County Educational Service Agency and Community Mental Health for Central Michigan.
MyMichigan Health works hard to form partnerships to provide education, programming and support for residents across their service areas. In fact, these partnerships are integral to make meaningful, positive impact and help them carry out their Purpose of “Creating Healthy Communities – Together.” One such partnership involves a collaboration with Midland County Educational Service Agency and Community Mental Health for Central Michigan to form the Midland County Pediatric Partnership. Its goal is to help care for children with autism and their families.
On Thursday, Sept. 26, the Pediatric Partnership held “Parents Night Out” at the Longview Early Childhood Development Center. This initiative provided 16 children with autism a fun, safe environment filled with activities, games, and snacks, all supervised by volunteers from the partner organizations, along with assistance from the Midland Wellbeing Coalition. During this time, parents were invited to enjoy a couple of hours to themselves to do whatever they wished, knowing their kids were in good hands.
“It was so great to work with our community partners from Community Mental Health for Central Michigan and the Midland County Educational Service Agency to put on this event for children with autism,” said Kathy Dollard, Psy.D., L.P., director, behavioral health. “Everyone had fun, and we were able to give parents some time to relax for a few hours in the evening knowing their children were safe and entertained.”
“A night out is important for families under the best circumstances,” said Kelly Kish, board certified behavior analyst. “Coordinating one for kids and parents coping with autism was particularly rewarding. I hope we will be able to host future events like this!”
The benefits of volunteering are well supported through research. Volunteering offers a wide range of physical and mental benefits, and it may even lower mortality risk when the focus is on helping others. Volunteering alongside teams from other organizations can help expand both personal and professional connections.
MyMichigan Health has a Community Service Time (CST) Policy that allows staff to volunteer in their communities for a cause they are passionate about with pay. “We know that community needs are ongoing,” said Dollard. “We also know that volunteering time and attention to others boosts our own sense of wellbeing and personal accomplishment. I’m proud to know that I work for an organization that combines community needs and employee wellbeing with a policy that incorporates both for the benefit of all.”
Through events like “Parents Night Out” and collaborations like the Pediatric Partnership, MyMichigan Health demonstrates its commitment to supporting families, strengthening community bonds and enhancing employee wellbeing, all while making a positive impact on the lives of children with autism and their families.
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