A new school year is full of possibilities—new teachers, new friendships, new experiences and new opportunities to grow. It can also bring big emotions for kids and caregivers alike. At Samaritas, we believe that mental wellness is foundational to learning, growth, and resilience. This is why we are committed to fostering conversations about mental health…
A great coach can change far more than an athlete’s performance. They build confidence, create belonging, notice when something is off, and remind young people that they have someone in their corner. Student-athletes face tremendous pressure both on and off the field. Coaches are uniquely positioned to build trusted relationships with young people and create…
For many teens and young adults, a new backpack signals the start of another school year filled with possibility. But for youth in foster care or those overcoming difficult circumstances, it can mean something even more important: the confidence of knowing someone believes in them. This year, Samaritas is inviting individuals, families, churches, businesses and…
Here’s a story worth celebrating, because for young people in foster care, graduation is about more than receiving a diploma. It’s about beating the odds. Children and teens in foster care face enormous barriers to educational success. Nationally, less than 60% of foster youth earn a high school diploma by age 19, compared to much…
High school coaches do far more than draw up plays; they are often the first line of defense for a teenager navigating a mental health crisis. Recognizing this vital mentorship, Samaritas and be nice. (the Mental Health Foundation of West Michigan) have launched year two of the Coaches Who Care Mental Health Hall of Fame.…
DETROIT – Samaritas has selected Erin Lyons, LMSW, CAADC-DP, QMPH, CCTP, as the Clinical Director of Behavioral Health for Samaritas. Lyons will provide leadership and support for statewide behavioral health programs for Samaritas and the opening of the organization’s new Macomb County Substance Use Disorder (SUD) program in Warren, Mich. Lyons brings…
When life feels like it’s falling apart, sometimes all it takes is one person willing to help you take the next step forward. Last year, an Indonesian refugee living in Michigan found himself facing an impossible situation. After more than two decades in the United States, he suddenly lost his job, his housing, and his…
Opinion: Michigan’s nonprofits are vital infrastructure, not a nice-to-have By Kelli Dobner July 01, 2026 08:00 AM EDT Too often the nonprofit sector is spoken about as though it sits off to the side of society, doing charitable work in the margins. Nice to have, but not essential. Worthy, but not strategic. That framing is…
Sometimes progress isn’t measured in miles. Sometimes it’s measured in moments. For Jason, one of those moments came with the sound of a set of apartment keys in his hand. Just over a year ago, Jason came to Samaritas seeking support for his mental health and substance use recovery. He was ready to make a…
When someone is working to rebuild their life, success often depends on more than just determination. You can have a job lined up, support, and be ready for a fresh start — but if you can’t get there, none of it works. That’s the reality many of the individuals Samaritas serves face every day. Transportation…