Recovery Action Network now open

Executive Director Allison Herrst of Recovery Action Network of Michigan (RANMI) cuts the ribbon on a new Recovery Community Center dedicated to supporting individuals on their journey of recovery from substance use disorder.

By Sarah Shurge – The Recovery Action Network of Michigan launched its very first Recovery Community Center in the heart of downtown Wayne.
The Recovery Action Network of Michigan (RANMI) is a peer-based support group that is committed to serving the Western Wayne County community. This organization supports all pathways of recovery with educational seminars, community resources, recovery activities, community service events, and more.
On Thursday, June 5th, RANMI had an open house and ribbon cutting ceremony for the Recovery Community Center. This space will serve as a welcoming and safe environment for people in recovery and those seeking support.
“It was awesome – there were lots of people there from the community, community partners, and members from council,” said Allison Herrst, RANMI Executive Director. “The mayor and Chief Strong gave a speech.”
The new center will offer a variety of free resources and peer-driven support services, including:
1) Multiple Pathways Support Groups: Recovery isn’t one-size-fits-all, so it offers a range of group meetings to support diverse recovery journeys.
2) Peer Recovery Coaching: One-on-one guidance from trained recovery coaches who understand the journey firsthand.
3) Overdose Prevention & Harm Reduction: Free Narcan, fentanyl, and xylazine test strips, and education on safe use and overdose prevention.
4) Life Skills Workshops: Training in financial literacy, nutrition, self-care, and other essential skills to empower individuals in recovery.
5) Community Resources: Connections to treatment providers, housing assistance, employment support, and more.
A Well Wayne Station has been placed outside the Recovery Community Center.
The Wayne County Department of Health, Human, and Veteran Services (HHVS) is working in partnership with Wayne State University Center for Behavioral Health and Justice (CBHJ) for the “Well Wayne Stations” Initiative.
This initiative provides free public health vending machines and/or PorchBoxes (newsstand-style storage boxes) and positions them as low barrier access points for naloxone (Narcan®) and drug checking supplies (fentanyl test strips and xylazine test strips) within the community.
“It’s awesome to have the station on sight so that people can come and take what they need,” said Herrst. “They don’t have to go through official training however, we do offer trainings. We’re covering all bases – everyone has access, education, and skills to prevent overdose.”
RANMI was launched in October 2023 under its parent organization, Growth Works, a non-profit to assist youth and family services for substance use.
Herrst has been with the RANMI for two years. “It’s a passion project for me. I’ve been in long-term recovery for 11 years,” said Herrst.
In high school, Herrst began using marijuana and alcohol. She fractured her back and was prescribed opioid painkillers, which she became addicted to. She was trafficked with sex trafficking. She was homeless. And eventually she found recovery through the criminal justice system. She is also in recovery for an eating disorder.
“I know first-hand what it’s like to struggle. To feel like you’re never gonna get it. Never fully comprehend what recovery is about,” said Herrst. “When I was ready, it was so important to have support and resources. Having fun in sobriety, managing finances, I learned from people in the recovery community.”
Herrst stated that there is so much more to treating addiction than just going to rehab.
“It’s about finding passion, purpose, and enjoying their lives. You can get through this too and I’m here to support you. This is what I was meant to do,” said Herrst.
RANMI is primarily a volunteer-driven initiative that relies on individuals who are willing to contribute their time. Additionally, RANMI is a non-profit that welcomes donations from supporters who can help sustain and grow the programs.
RANMI is accepting financial donations as well as the following donation items: office supplies, toilet paper, paper towels, cleaning products, recovery focused books, snacks, beverages, and kids toys for the kids’ station.
Recovery Action Network of Michigan is located at 35112 W. Michigan Ave. For more information about Recovery Action Network of Michigan, visit ran-mi.org, email info@ranmi.org, or call (248)938-2134. To receive services, call or email. Designated drop-in hours are in the works, however, if the lights are on, come on in.
You can follow RANMI on Facebook and Instagram for updates regarding sober social activities. “We’re offering resources that break down barriers and reduce stigma. We’re here to support them,” said Herrst.