Lauren LaPine, senior director, legislative and public policy, MHA, participated in a discussion Oct. 3 in Grand Rapids during the Michigan Children and Families Summit hosted by the Steelcase Foundation. The summit explored the results of a Harvard study on the impact of loneliness in Michigan families that the foundation supported with the national nonpartisan think tank Capita.
The summit was a continuation of a collaborative roundtable held in May, where participants explored the growing epidemic of loneliness affecting families across America, with a particular focus on its impact in Michigan.
The event brought together a diverse group of stakeholders, including representatives from government, associations and nonprofit organizations, all deeply engaged in addressing the rising levels of loneliness among Michigan families and identifying the key factors contributing to this concerning trend.
LaPine discussed the state of behavioral health and its contribution to the topic. The conversation also delved into the critical challenges confronting Michigan hospitals, with a focus on the behavioral health priorities the MHA is leading to address these issues within the state.
The event was led by Daniel Williams, president, Steelcase Foundation, and Tracie Coffman, program officer, W.K. Kellog Foundation. Other speakers during the event included Joe Waters, founder and CEO, Capita; Elliot Haspel, senior fellow, Capita; State Senate Majority Leader Winnie Brinks; U.S. Representative Hillary Scholten; Kent County Commissioner and Chair Stan Stek; Dr. Kim Carter, Battle Creek Public Schools and Jacob Maas, West MiWorks!.
Members with questions about the event or behavioral health are encouraged to contact Lauren LaPine at the MHA.