Page 22 - Wayne Dispatch Pages

Recovery Action Network now open

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

22 · July 2025 · The Wayne Dispatch