Non-profits - Ann Arbor

Revision 9 (Nov. 25, 2007, 1:35 p.m. by Je3)

The Wellness Community of Southeast Michigan

OUR MISSION:

The mission of The Wellness Community is to help people with cancer and their loved ones enhance their wellbeing by providing a professional program of emotional support, education and hope.

YOUR place for FREE Cancer Support. Programs are available to all people who have ever had a diagnosis of cancer and their loved ones. Support Groups are the heart of our program at The Wellness Community. These are weekly, committed groups and are facilitated by licensed professionals. Registration for these groups is required, please call The Wellness Community to learn more about joining. Participant Groups,Caregiver Group, Networking Groups are monthly drop in meetings that give participants an opportunity to connect with others who have the same type of cancer or who are facing similar issues. Loved ones are welcome and registration is not required. Stress Management and Exercise Programs designed to improve reduce stress and strengthen the immune system for people with cancer and those who support them. Educational Workshops are led by experts on a variety of topics. These events will provide opportunities for acquiring tools, and information about cancer, along with techniques to learn how to bean active participant in the fight for recovery. Social Gatherings are held for participants,family members and friends enjoy camaraderie and friendship. Additional Programs designed to meet the unique needs of our communities.

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Barbara S. Hiltz, MSSW Executive Director [email protected] The Wellness Community of Southeast Michigan www.thewellnesscommunity.org/semich 2010 Hogback Road Suite 3 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 734-975-2500 (phone) 734-975-2525 (fax)

Frequently Asked Questions:

WHAT IS THE WELLNESS COMMUNITY OF SOUTHEAST MICHIGAN?

A local affiliate of an international non-profit organization founded in 1982, which is dedicated to providing emotional support, education and hope for people affected by cancer. A compassionate haven for people with cancer and their loved ones that preserves dignity and self-esteem while focusing on living life to its fullest. A comfortable, home-like setting located in a non-medical facility, where all programs and services are offered at no cost to those with cancer and their families. WHY IS THIS NEEDED?

Research has shown that three particularly stressful challenges that cancer and its treatment bring are unwanted aloneness, loss of control and loss of hope. A meaningful way to address these issues is to participate – along with loved ones and other people with cancer – in support groups, educational workshops, stress management programs and other activities. Often people with cancer do not want to return to the hospital for anything other than their medical treatment. Thus, the non-medical setting of The Wellness Community creates an environment in which the realities of treatment can be put aside. It will offer a place where people can come together to create community, regardless of the stage of their disease or where they are being treated. Though hospitals offer some support groups, The Wellness Community will provide a comprehensive support program with multiple opportunities for people to receive support. WHAT PROGRAMS AND SERVICES WILL BE OFFERED?

Professionally led support groups for cancer patients and family members. Educational workshops, including topics such as nutrition and “Cancer 101.” Small creative groups such as art, music and writing, and mind/body programs like yoga and tai chi for patients, family members and friends. Social events to promote community spirit. A resource library. WHERE WILL IT BE LOCATED?

The Wellness Community is located at 2010 Hogback Rd. in Ann Arbor. The facility has ample parking and is easily accessible from major highways. It is anticipated that the facility will draw participants from an area roughly bounded on the north by Fenton, I-275 on the east, on the south by Adrian and on the west by Jackson. Satellite programs will eventually be offered in home-like settings in some of the outlying communities.

HOW WILL IT BE FUNDED?

Since all programs and services will be offered at no charge, The Wellness Community will be funded by a combination of private donations, fund-raising events and grants. FOR MORE INFORMATION OR TO FIND OUT HOW YOU CAN HELP CONTACT: