Detroiter Magazine: April 2019

Thriving Regions: Five Factors for Healthy Communities

The Opioid Crisis: How One Survivor is Leading Change

Wellness Works: A Tool to Drive Well-Being

April 2019

Breaking Ground on Mindful Well-Being

Debbie Dingell U.S. Representative (D - MI 12)

& John Fox

President and CEO, Beaumont Health

COMMUNITY

Strong communities are the foundation of a healthy, thriving environment. That’s why

DTE Energy helps power communities through supporting projects and programs that enhance life. We partner with local leaders to promote initiatives from environmental education to economic development, including neighborhood outreach services.

Law Firm of the Year

The Verdict is in ...

Plunkett Cooney is proud to be named the first ever Law Firm of the Year by Crain’s Detroit Business. For more than a century, our attorneys and staff have been making a difference from the boardroom to the courtroom to the community.

Additional Media Honors: n

Among U.S. News / Best Lawyers 2018 Best Law Firms in America

n

Among National Law Journal’s Leading Law Firms for Female Diversity

ATTORNEYS & COUNSELORS AT LAW Thomas P. Vincent, President & CEO 248.594.6777 | tvincent@plunkettcooney.com Michigan

|

Illinois

|

Indiana

|

Ohio

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w w w. p l u n k e t t c o o n e y. c o m

WELLNESS

AS A CATALYST FOR ECONOMIC PROSPERITY A P R I L 2 01 9

• V O L U M E 111 , I S S U E 1

Managing Editor and Art Director Melissa Knapp

12

THE WELL-BEING FACTORS Learn how the Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index defines community well-being and how it is being implemented across the region.

Associate Editor Kelly Weatherwax

16

PEER COMPARISON Dallas, Boston, and Minneapolis rank much higher for community well-being. Explore how Detroit stacks up to its peers.

18

ANN ARBOR’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS Ann Arbor ranks 12th in the nation in the community well-being index. What’s their secret?

20

LEADING THE CHARGE ON WELLNESS PROGRAMS Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan has an expansive workplace wellness programs. Learn why the efforts are so important to BCBSM and the tactics they use to motivate their employees.

26

WORKPLACE WELLNESS INFLUENCERS Creating a workplace that instills passion and purpose is not a linear undertaking. Hear from some regional leaders on their strategies to stay on top.

ACTION

A MINDFUL STATE OF WELL-BEING Beaumont Health’s John Fox and Congresswoman Debbie Dingell know the importance of focusing on mental health. They have made a strategic pair in getting plans organized for a $45 million facility to be built in Dearborn to solely support mental health.

30

THE HEALTH CARE PULSE The Detroit Regional Chamber in partnership with Accenture, set out to speak to health care CEOs and senior leaders in Southeast Michigan to glean insight on key strengths, challenges, and opportunities.

CHALLENGES

IMPACT

8

28

32 32

HURDLES TO IMPROVE WELLNESS With long-term wellness in mind, the Detroit region must address access to food, financial security, and transit for more prosperous communities.

34

ATTACKING THE OPIOID CRISIS Read about how Leah McLaughlin of Workit Health beat addiction and used her powerful life experience to help others.

35

POINT OF VIEW Learn about opposing sides of marijuana legalization and how it will affect Michigan businesses.

MEMBERSHIP

CONTENTS

COVER

Publisher Tammy Carnrike, CCE

WELLNESS WORKS BCBSM has teamed up with the Detroit Regional Chamber to provide resources to the business community on how to promote workplace wellness.

Editor Nushrat Rahman

Photographers Bethany Desmond Melissa Knapp Katie Krizanich Courtesy photos Advertising Director Jim Connarn Advertising Representatives Laurie Scotese Glennon Martin Research and Analysis Angela Ladetto Christyn Lucas Back Issues 313.596.0391

Published by Detroit Regional Chamber Services Inc. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without written permission.

Detroiter (ISSN 0011-9709) is published four times a year (April, June, Sept. and Dec.) by the Detroit Regional Chamber, One Woodward Avenue, Suite 1900 P.O. Box 33840, Detroit MI 48232-0840, Phone: (313)964-4000.

Periodical postage paid at Detroit MI Subscription price: members, $14: nonmembers, $18.

Individual copies: $4; plus postage.

POSTMASTER Send address changes to: Detroiter, One Woodward Avenue, Suite 1900, P.O. Box 33840, Detroit MI 48232-0840. Copyright 2007, Detroit Regional Chamber Services Inc.

ENERGIZING MICHIGAN’S

Future

Energy is essential to the way we live, work and play.

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We’re a Michigan-based company working hard to improve electric reliability, increase electric transmission capacity, and keep efficient, reliable energy flowing to homes and businesses across the state.

Building the electric transmission infrastructure that will power the future.

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@ITCGrid

ITC Holdings Corp

www.itc-holdings.com

4

Executive Summary FROM THE PRESIDENT

50 YEARS OF PARTNERSHIP WITH BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD For over 50 years, Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) has been a close partner with the Detroit Regional Chamber. Together, we are committed to providing Southeast Michigan businesses access to affordable health care coverage and building a healthy workforce — two things that are imperative to successful businesses and a driver of economic stability.

Together we promote the role businesses play in shaping communities and making quality and affordable health insurance accessible, especially to the thousands of small businesses across the region.

Increasing employee engagement and health literacy is critical to healthy communities and productive workplaces. To this end, we work with BCBSM to provide resources and programs to assist Chamber members develop healthier employees. With the launch of Wellness Works, the Chamber and BCBSM work to make a positive impact on the region’s Gallup-Sharecare Community Well-Being Index ranking – which currently stands at 145 out of 186 communities. The Chamber uses the Gallup-Sharecare Community Well-Being Index as one of our key regional metrics.

But our partnership with BCBSM goes further than just health care programs and policies. We work together to enhance the economic vibrancy of the city of Detroit and the region. BCBSM, along with Dan Gilbert’s family of companies, were among the first employers to move significant portions of their operations into downtown Detroit — spurring the renaissance of Detroit that has outstripped all expectations. BCBSM is also a driving force behind the nationallyrecognized Mackinac Policy Conference, hosted by the Detroit Regional Chamber.

For all this and more, the Chamber and this region owe much to the contribution of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and its leader, Dan Loepp.

HIGHLIGHTING THE REGION’S HEALTH CARE ASSETS The Chamber, working with Dean Brody, Managing Director at Accenture, has begun to collaborate with the chief

executives of the region’s health care systems — several of whom serve on the Chamber’s Board of Directors. The Detroit region is fortunate to have recognized world-class health care delivery systems providing excellent care across the region. Our region is a national leader in clinical trials and research.

Our regional health care systems are also very engaged in supporting broad-based community health initiatives. These health care systems are actively engaged in our communities — especially underserved ones — with proactive programs to combat challenges such as obesity and diabetes along with access to prenatal care, preventive health, and more to help create healthier communities. The Chamber looks forward to expanding our work with our health care partners.

FAREWELL TO AN UNPARALLELED LEADER On February 7th, America lost an exceptional public leader — and a close friend to many of us. Congressman John Dingell, the “Dean” of the U.S. House of Representatives, held the record as the longestever serving member of Congress in American history. Following his father John Dingell Sr. as the U.S. Representative from Dearborn, John Dingell was clearly a favorite son from Michigan.

As this issue of the Detroiter is dedicated to health care and wellness, it is fitting that Congressman Dingell was a lifelong champion for access to health care, including presiding over the House during the passage of Medicare in 1965, promoting universal access to Medicare, and helping President Obama enact the Affordable Care Act. But beyond policy, John Dingell was a true public servant — always true to the people he served and conducting himself with the highest levels of integrity and personal grace.

As a senior official in President Bush’s Administration, I can say that while I didn’t always agree with Congressman Dingell, he was always a friend and someone who would work to find compromise without compromising his principals.

Look for a full tribute to the life and legacy of John Dingell in the next issue of the Detroiter. Godspeed, John Dingell. •

SANDY K. BARUAH PRESIDENT AND CEO, DETROIT REGIONAL CHAMBER

TEXT TO SAVE Text “DRCSPC� to 555-888 to receive a Chamber store purchasing card sent to your phone!

Show this card at checkout at an Office Depot or Office Max store to see instant savings. Just another valuable benefit for being a Detroit Regional Chamber member.

6

Executive Summary

THE WELLNESS FACTOR THE FACTS

41 MICHIGAN’S RANK FOR PUBLIC HEALTH SPENDING6 MI: $58 PER PERSON AK: $281 PER PERSON

Beyond just eating right and exercising, wellness is a holistic approach to living a healthy lifestyle.

It considers a host of critical components, including health, stress reduction, financial literacy, and much more.

The Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index, which you can read about later in this issue, is one tool used to measure Americans’ perceptions of their lives and overall wellness. The Index evaluates wellness using five key elements: physical health, financial security, relationships to community, sense of purpose, and social relationships.

WHY WELLNESS? WHY NOW? In March 2018, the Detroit metropolitan statistical area (MSA ) placed 145 out of the 186 ranked regions, lagging behind our peers. This low ranking prevents the region from attracting young talent. According to Forbes, 58 percent of millennials consider wellness programs when making a job decision, yet only 40 percent of employers prioritize wellness initiatives and 25 percent leverage it as a recruiting tool. Detroit’s

low ranking is partially due to lacking resources to tackle community health and wellness challenges.

Research shows that well-being is directly linked to community and economic outcomes. The 2017 Blue Cross Blue Shield Health Index found that healthier counties had lower unemployment, higher per capita income, and higher average income.

This issue of Detroiter was developed to provide information and give Michigan businesses a competitive advantage. You will learn about how the region’s wellness fares in comparison to other areas, find tips to grow a thriving workforce, and more.

Wellness Works, an initiative by the Detroit Regional Chamber and Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan, is a new tool featured in this issue that will provide information to Southeast Michigan employers and community members. This resource is a collaboration between businesses, chambers of commerce, and community organizations that want to build a healthier workforce and region.

Read on to learn how improving our community wellness can and will propel the Detroit region into a prosperous future. •

Executive Summary

Q: How can businesses

play a lead role in improving the health and well-being of all people to ensure the state and region remain competitive in the 21st century?

MICHIGAN’S WELL-BEING RANKING

33

A: Make sure you have a

supportive work environment that helps people work through whatever health problems they might have.

At too many worksites, people are afraid to say they’re having a problem if they’re depressed. They’re afraid that’ll be a mark against them, they won’t get promoted, so they take the drink, they take the pill, instead of just quietly going and getting the help they need.

From a health insurance standpoint, make sure insurance plans are covering as many people as possible.

OUR REGION

BY THE NUMBERS

14%

POVERTY RATE 2 (DETROIT MSA)

32%

OUT OF 50

TOP FIVE FACTORS OF EMPLOYEE SATISFACTION 1

Respectful treatment

2

Compensation

3

Trust between employees and senior management

4

Job security

5

Opportunities to use skills and abilities

LIFE EXPECTANCY

7

OF MICHIGAN’S POPULATION IS OBESE 3

62%

LABOR FORCE PARTICIPATION RATE 2 (DETROIT MSA)

13.6

SUICIDE-RELATED DEATHS PER 10,000 4 (MICHIGAN)

106%

MICHIGAN 10-YEAR GROWTH IN DRUGRELATED DEATHS 6

7

(2017)

1.2 MILLION CHILDREN UNDER THE AGE OF 18 5 (DETROIT MSA)

16.4 MILLION

$

DEBBIE DINGELL U.S. REPRESENTATIVE (D-MI 12)

See cover story for expansion, page 8

Men

Men

75.4

76.1

Women

Women

80.4

81.1

FEDERAL GRANT DOLLARS AWARDED TO MICHIGAN TO COMBAT OPIOID USE 8

SOURCES: 1. HR Magazine, August 2017 2. 2017 ACS, 1 year 3. 2017 CDC/BRFSS 4. 2018, CDC 5. 2017 ACS, 5 year 6. America’s Health Rankings (2018) 7. State of Michigan Department of Health and Human Services 8. U.S. Dept. HHS

8

Executive Summary

A MINDFUL

STATE OF WELL-BEING MICHIGAN’S MENTAL HEALTH STATISTICS1 253

mental health providers per 100,000 residents

13.5%

of adults reported their mental health was not good 14 or more days in past 30 years

15

TH

in the nation for lowest level of prevalence of mental illness and higher rates of access to care

150 BEDS

8

ACRE PROPERTY

580

JOBS CREATED

99.4 MILLION $

ESTIMATED TOTAL IMPACT ON INCOME (WAYNE COUNTY BUSINESSES)

By Tom Walsh

In 2015, when John Fox moved from Georgiabased Emory Healthcare to become president and CEO of Beaumont Health in Michigan, he had his hands full integrating the eight hospitals, 145 outpatient sites, and 33,000 employees of the Beaumont, Oakwood, and Botsford systems that had recently merged in a $3.8 billion deal.

that was to start to train our own,” Fox said. Beaumont will start a new residency program to train more psychiatrists.

“We had a ton of work to do with the existing portfolio before we took on anything new,” Fox said.

“We would have a psychiatrist, a pharmacist certified in technopharmacology — which is a special certification within pharmacy now — and also some social workers available 24/7 via telemedicine to support our nine ERs,” Fox said.

However, at one of the first meetings he attended with several Michigan health care groups, mental health was the topic of discussion and a major frustration in the room.

“We were all suffering from the same issue,” he said. “We had ERs jammed with people who had mental health disorders. We had inadequate resources to treat them or to place them in appropriate care.”

PLANS AHEAD What evolved from Beaumont’s follow-up research was a decision last fall to build a new 150-bed, free-standing psychiatric hospital on eight acres in Dearborn. The $45 million facility, targeted for completion by the end of 2020, will be built in partnership with Universal Health Services — one of the largest U.S. mental health providers.

It addresses a critical need in southeast Michigan, says Congresswoman Debbie Dingell, representing the 12th District of Michigan in the U.S. House of Representatives, who joined Fox in announcing the new hospital.

Along with a significant provider and bed shortfall, many of the existing beds for patients with mental illness in metro Detroit are in psychiatric units of general hospitals in Beaumont, Henry Ford, DMC, and other large systems. However, a medical-surgical hospital is not where acute mental health issues should be treated, Fox said.

There is also the challenge of staffing the new psychiatric hospital.

“We felt we needed more psychiatrists for the long term in Michigan, and the best way to get

The telemedicine function is another facet of Beaumont’s mental health strategy.

PRIORITIZING MENTAL HEALTH According to Fox and Dingell and many other business and political leaders, mental health is a critical area where the U.S. health care system has fallen behind. As a result, people with mental health issues go undiagnosed or untreated and land in jails and hospital emergency rooms.

Dingell recalled several jarring episodes that drove home the severity of the issue, including the Parkland school shooting in Florida, followed by news of a19-year-old student who shot his parents at Central Michigan University.

The young man knew he had a problem days before the killings but was met with a lack of assistance when he asked for help, Dingell said.

“The mental health issue has been brewing for decades,” Fox said. While Michigan’s incidence of bipolar disorder, schizophrenia, or depression isn’t much different from other U.S. regions, proper treatment is difficult because it takes special skills to evaluate those patients, judge their acuity, and plan their therapy.

“It’s much easier to fix a broken arm,” Fox said. “We know that if patients are struggling with their mental health, they’re probably also struggling with other medical conditions that may be unrelated. So, mental health can have kind of a snowball effect and create a much bigger problem.”

We need to make mental health a

priority and try to erase the stigma. We hope other states will look at what we’re doing here in Michigan and take notes.”

JOHN FOX

PRESIDENT AND CEO, BEAUMONT HEALTH

A STRATEGIC PAIR Rep. Debbie Dingell: An Advocate of Mental Health Congresswoman Debbie Dingell talks candidly these days about her “very chaotic childhood” – trying to wrestle a gun from her father, who suffered from mental illnesses, as an eighth grader and losing her sister Mary Grace years later to a drug overdose. Dingell has emerged as an outspoken advocate for mental health.

Although she admits it is sometimes difficult to discuss these issues, she hopes that her openness will help somebody out.

“I don’t know if my father [had] manic depression. You never knew when he was going to snap, and he had paranoia,” she said. “He didn’t talk about it. He didn’t tell anybody he had a problem.”

Fifty years later, the stigma of mental illness remains widespread.

Beaumont Health President and CEO John Fox works with Congresswoman Debbie Dingell to advocate for increased mental health care in Michigan.

“Because we don’t talk about depression, we don’t talk about anxiety, a lot of people selfmedicate with alcohol or opioids or some other kind of drug to address that fear,” Dingell said.

“We have to remove that stigma.” • Tom Walsh is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

SOURCE: 1. www.mentalhealthamerica.net/issues/ranking-states

10 Executive Summary SPOTLIGHT ON WELLNESS

RITA PATEL E X ECU TI V E D I R EC TO R , M I C H I GA N W EL L N ES S CO U N C I L for well-being. Research has shown that social isolation and low levels of social support are linked with increased illnesses. The effect of how much social support a person has on life expectancy appears to be as strong as the effects of obesity, cigarette smoking, hypertension, or level of physical activity. 1

Individual people thrive when they feel connected, supported, and creative. These are building blocks for healthy communities and must be considered and included as a community’s basic needs.”

How does wellness in a community happen? And how can each of us go about enhancing overall well-being?

The word community is a container — a symbol inclusive of deep diversity. When we speak of community, it is important to remember that a community holds together unique individuals. The web that binds us can be strengthened through the quality of relationships. Community is alive, dynamic, and generative.

In health terms, our relationships — the space and place where we care — are our social supports. We know that positive social connection is essential

Healthy relationships form healthy communities. Effective health promotion involves the creative cultivation of physical, mental, social, and spiritual wellbeing that is person-centered.2 Individual creative expression is essential in all parts of life — for the self and the community.

Studies show your creative personality, a profile characterized by being highly selfdirected, cooperative, and self-transcendent, is the most consistent and strong predictor of how you feel about your well-being and your actual health status.

Individual people thrive when they feel connected, supported, and creative.

These are building blocks for healthy communities and must be considered and included as a community’s basic needs.

The act of asking is a profound act of caring. By taking a conversational approach, we can co-create healthy communities. The action of listening has significant physical and emotional benefits. I can speak from personal experience to the depth of the healing effects and endeavor to make it essential in my interactions. However fleeting, all of our interactions have a lasting impact in cultivating and strengthening the web of relationships. Regardless of the community with which we identify, the quality of our interactions affects the quality of our relationships, which in turn affects the quality of our communities. Every interaction is a possibility for sustained thriving. • Rita G. Patel, CPA, MPH, CWWPM, is the executive director of Michigan Wellness Council, an artist, and generative consultant.

SOURCES: 1. Ozbay, F., Johnson, D. C., Dimoulas, E., Morgan, C. A., Charney, D., & Southwick, S. (2007). Social support and resilience to stress: from neurobiology to clinical practice. Psychiatry (Edgmont (Pa. : Township)), 4(5), 35-40. 2. Cloninger, C. R., & Cloninger, K. M. (2013). People Create Health: Effective Health Promotion is a Creative Process. International journal of person centered medicine, 3(2), 114-122.

THERE’S NO QUIT IN US.

BECAUSE THERE’S NO QUIT IN OUR COMMUNITIES. We’re proud to be part of communities who don’t settle.

Communities who want the best for their children. Their neighbors. And themselves. At Beaumont, we’re inspired by your spirit. And we’re dedicated to supporting the causes that matter most. There’s no quit in us.

Because there’s no quit in you.

12 Impact

THE WELL-BEING How would you measure the well-being of metro Detroit?

A community well-being is usually determined by economic activity — unemployment rates, housing sales, office occupancy, and more.

But the Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index measures a community’s overall health by considering other factors.

The annual survey takes a more holistic approach to well-being by measuring individual progress on five elements: purpose, social, financial, community, and physical. These elements were determined after considerable research; the organization surveys about 10,000 people a month.

“This is something Gallup has studied pretty extensively over the last decade-plus,” said Dan Witters, research director of the Gallup-Sharecare Well-Being Index, noting that businesses and people generally think of well-being as physical wellness.

“Our descriptions of well-being, the way we conceptualize well-being, extends beyond physical well-being,” he said.

“Physical well-being is an important part of it, and being physically fit is better than no well-being at all. But what we also know is that holistic well-being extends across five essential elements.”

Purpose is liking what you do each day and being motivated to achieve your goals; social involves supportive relationships and love; financial encompasses managing your finances, which reduces stress and increases security; community relates to enjoying where you live, feeling safe, and having pride in your community; and physical includes good health and energy to get things done daily.

To exclude other aspects of well-being, “leaves a lot of untapped potential sitting on the table,” Witters said. Employees who have all five essential elements fare better in the workplace, including better performance, job engagement, and less absenteeism, than those who are solely considered physically healthy.

The data and insights from the annual report can be used as a call to action for communities, helping them identify opportunities for well-being improvement.

In the 2017 community well-being report, the Detroit metropolitan region ranked in the fourth quintile, landing at number 145 among 186 communities. Ann Arbor was ranked number 12.

In a report released in late February, Michigan ranked in the fourth quintile among the states, dropping from 32 to 33.

PURPOSE Liking what you do each day and being motivated to achieve goals.

“I don’t know if there is a message there for Michigan,” said Jim Clifton, CEO of Gallup Inc., the global analytics and advice firm spearheading the well-being reports. “I do know the activity that fixes that. Every time you can create one job with a living wage…that’s a gamechanging moment, and it sends a signal through the whole place.”

Leaders also need to get people excited about the future. Those two factors, he said, can help improve a state or community’s wellness.

“Those two things would contribute to the well-being and wellness of Michigan.” • Greg Tasker is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

FINANCIAL Managing your finances to reduce stress and increase security.

Impact 13

FACTORS

By Greg Tasker

Employees

who have all five essential elements fare better in the workplace, including better performance, job engagement, and less absenteeism, than those who are solely considered physically healthy.�

SOCIAL Having supportive relationships and love.

DAN WITTERS

RESEARCH DIRECTOR, GALLUP-SHARECARE WELL-BEING INDEX

NATIONAL WELLBEING RANKING MOST WELL Ann Arbor

COMMUNITY Liking where you live, feeling safe and having pride in your community.

12

PHYSICAL Having good health and energy to get things done daily.

Detroit Flint

145 177

LEAST WELL

OUT OF 186 COMMUNITIES

14 Impact

INDEX IN THE REGION

By Melissa Anders

PURPOSE From police officers to financial counselors, professionals throughout metro Detroit are working to improve the region’s well-being and make it a better place to live, work, and play.

They are putting well-being practices into action, like engaging with residents, developing programming for young professionals, ensuring food safety in restaurants, providing financial literacy workshops, and facilitating workforce re-entry.

Because they speak the language of health and wellness, their insight can serve as an inspiration for the business community to bolster its involvement in cultivating a thriving Detroit region.

The Detroiter spoke to professionals who work to improve our communities every day. Here’s what they had to say:

FINANCIAL EVA TORRES

FINANCIAL WELL-BEING COACH, OPERATION HOPE

DAN VARNER CEO, GOODWILL INDUSTRIES OF GREATER DETROIT

Goodwill Industries of Greater Detroit helps people unlock their potential. The nonprofit helps people entering the workforce, and particularly those with mental illness, developmental and intellectual disabilities, or criminal records.

Goodwill facilitates independence and dignity through development work, from job interviewing assistance to occupational training.

The program’s 100th welder graduated last year, said Varner.

Yet employers can do more to help, he said, such as building job requirements based on the skills needed for a job rather than credentials, like a high school diploma or GED.

COMMUNITY MICHAEL PATTON CHIEF, WEST BLOOMFIELD POLICE DEPARTMENT

SOCIAL WHITNEY GRIFFIN PRESIDENT, DETROIT YOUNG PROFESSIONALS

According to Griffin, social well-being is vital to attracting and retaining talent as well as developing strong leaders.

Detroit Young Professionals encourages members to create meaningful relationships through programming like social hours and open houses.

Griffin wants to see more employers provide more opportunities for community involvement.

“The young professionals who don’t develop a network here, they struggle to embark on meaningful relationships — they quickly leave.

They’re dissatisfied and unfulfilled,” Griffin said. “So that’s why connecting and building relationships is super important to me and Detroit Young Professionals.”

PHYSICAL LEIGH-ANNE STAFFORD

HEALTH OFFICER, OAKLAND COUNTY HEALTH DIVISION

Torres educates metro Detroiters on financial literacy through workshops and one-on-one counseling. She helps people manage debt, navigate budgeting, and improve their credit score.

Patton said his department recognizes the importance of engaging with the community to build positive relationships so citizens are better prepared for emergencies and aren’t afraid to call the police.

Whether it’s licensing restaurants to ensure food safety or sending a nurse to a new mom’s home for breastfeeding support, Oakland County’s Health Division works to promote physical well-being in the region.

“When an individual has a credit score of 700 or above, think of all the possibilities.

They have an opportunity to purchase a home, purchase a vehicle, and do so many other things,” she said.

“It’s important to have that kind of buy-in, so if and when something bad does happen ,we’re already linked with all of our community partners,” Patton said. “And I think that really makes us a more robust and productive police department because we have all these relationships.”

The county collaborates with a wide range of partners, including businesses, health providers, nonprofits, and government entities to address worksite wellness, mental health, substance abuse prevention and treatment, and more.

Once someone invests in a home, they’re more likely to maintain the property and do what they can to ensure their community is a great place to live.

“We know that no one single entity or agency can really move the needle on health. It takes all of us to make a change,” Stafford said.

Melissa Anders is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

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16 Impact

PEER COMPARISON Gallup-Sharecare’s 2017 Community Well-Being Rankings found that, when compared to peer regions like Minneapolis, Dallas, and Boston, Detroit is lagging in overall well-being. High-ranking communities scored positively in a range of characteristics, while those with lower scores had poor rankings in the same characteristics, including obesity, daily physical pain, financial satisfaction, goal attainment, and more.

Detroit may be statistically behind, but now more than ever is the time to shift the focus to well-being and cultivate a thriving city and region. Employers are in a unique position to lead the charge.

TIPS TO FLIP THE SCRIPT AND BOOST WORKPLACE WELL-BEING: • Schedule standing or walking meetings • Offer healthier food and snack choices and encourage

employees to bring in lunch

• Prioritize regular check-ins with employees • Support employees through personal challenges • Help employees find a work-life balance

T I O DETR 145 PURPOSE

158

SOCIAL

137

FINANCIAL

117

COMMUNITY

142

PHYSICAL

136

Impact 17

E N N MI IS L O P A

S A L L DA

N O T S BO

47

39

PURPOSE

PURPOSE

PURPOSE

SOCIAL

SOCIAL

SOCIAL

FINANCIAL

FINANCIAL

FINANCIAL

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY

COMMUNITY

PHYSICAL

PHYSICAL

PHYSICAL

24 75 81

59 56

150 62 33 51

23

41

130

103 14

43 41

All rankings are out of 186 regions

18 Impact

ANN ARBOR’S RECIPE FOR SUCCESS

By Rene Wisley

Christopher White has lived in many locales throughout the world, including San Francisco, New York, and England, but he prefers Ann Arbor.

rec

a r e We l l-

Be

in

TH E

Ann Arbor gives you the benefit of a big city, but it’s packaged in a small town where it’s easy to get around.”

CHRISTOPHER WHITE

MANAGING DIRECTOR, CENTER FOR POSITIVE ORGANIZATIONS, UNIVERSITY OF MICHIGAN

O

N

x

Ga

de

IN

Photo credit: Destination Ann Arbor

“Ann Arbor gives you the benefit of a big city, such as great arts, culture, and sports, access to good health care, parks, and schools, but it’s packaged in a small town where it’s easy to get around,” White said.

In

llu

-

a Sh

g

p

White is the managing director of the Center for Positive Organizations at the University of Michigan’s Ross School of Business. His opinion echoes the findings of the GallupSharecare Well-Being Index, which ranks Ann Arbor — Michigan’s sixth largest city, with a population of over 113,000 residents — 12th overall in the nation.

I N AT

“This well-being directly impacts economic development,” said Paul Krutko, president and CEO of Ann Arbor SPARK, which works to grow the region’s economy by attracting businesses.

“It allows us to promote quality of life and quality of living to both employers and job seekers,” Krutko said.

According to Krutko, it’s one of the reasons KLATencor Corp. announced it will build a $70 million research and development facility, bringing 500 jobs to Ann Arbor.

In 2016, the University of Michigan Ann Arbor was named the No. 1 public research university in the U.S. by the National Science Foundation. The university is not only the city’s largest employer but also a global leader in education, said Ann Arbor Mayor Christopher Taylor.

“It brings a diversity of people, interests, and engagement,” Taylor said. “We value this, and it’s reflected in our well-being.” • Rene Wisely is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

Line 5 Project

Impact 19

Enhancing safety.

Where it matters most.

Energy cooks our food. It heats our homes. It keeps us moving. And it powers industry.

While energy delivery is important, safe energy delivery is paramount.

Enbridge is working with the State of Michigan to build an underground tunnel for Line 5, deep under the Straits of Mackinac.

We’re replacing energy infrastructure. We’re enhancing safety where it matters most.

And we’re continuing to deliver the energy Michigan needs.

Learn more at Enbridge.com/line5tunnel

65

20 Impact

LEADING THE CHARGE ON WELLNESS PROGRAMS

By Tom Walsh

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) — the state’s largest health insurer, with more than 4.3 million members — has a significant stake in the well-being of Michigan residents.

It’s what drives BCBSM’s support of hundreds of community wellness programs, said Pam Yager, BCBSM manager of social mission.

Beginning in 2013, the opioid crisis hit with devastating force.

Overprescription of painkillers, such as oxycodone, led to a rise in opioid addiction back in the 1990s, but in 2016, there was an uptick in deaths from fentanyl and related drugs.

“Our CEO Daniel Loepp said, ‘Look, this is a top priority for us. We’re the largest insurer in the state, we have a strong social mission,’” said Dr. Duane DiFranco, a BCBSM vice president tapped in 2017 to co-chair an internal task force on the crisis. “We’re not just interested in our members but in all Michiganders, and people look to us for leadership.”

LONG-TERM EFFORTS ON WELL-BEING

• The “Building Healthy Communities” program improves children’s health, addresses childhood obesity, and works with more than 800 schools and 300,000 kids.

• The “Strengthening the Safety Net” program invests more than $14 million to assist more than 60,000 mostly uninsured patients a year through free clinics and low-cost dental, vision, and other services.

We’re the largest insurer in the state, we have a strong social mission; we’re not just interested in our members but in all Michiganders.’”

To highlight the link between healthy employees and economic performance, the Detroit Regional Chamber and BCBSM also partner on the Wellness Works initiative, which launched its inaugural Healthy Workplace contest last summer.

Since 2005, Blue Cross has provided more than $14 million in grant funding to statewide safety net clinics through its Strengthening the Safety Net program. The program, now in its 14th year, provides free or low-cost medical and dental treatment for uninsured and vulnerable Michigan residents. Photo credit: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

DANIEL LOEPP

PRESIDENT AND CEO, BLUE CROSS BLUE SHIELD OF MICHIGAN

More than 130 companies participated. Automotive consulting firm P3 North America stocked its office with healthy snacks and provided tuition reimbursement to employees, winning tickets to a Detroit Tigers game in the Chamber’s suite.

OTHER WELLNESS PROGRAMS AND PARTNERSHIPS

• $50,000 to regents of the University of Michigan to train volunteers to provide outreach support and connection to resources for veterans in need.

• $50,000 to the United Way for Southeastern Michigan to help improve the quality and accessibility of care provided to Detroiters.

• $60,000 to Wayne State University to examine high-risk opioid prescribing in southeast Michigan. •

Tom Walsh is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

Each year, schools across the state get a visit from the Detroit Lions in recognition of the school’s work to help students adopt healthy habits through Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s Building Healthy Communities program. These assemblies are in partnership with the Detroit Lions through the National Football League’s Play 60 program and focus on educating students about the importance of healthy habits inside and outside of the classroom. Photo credit: Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan.

Better care.

Lower costs.

Two things we’re all working toward.

When it comes to health care, you want the best. But you need the best to cost less. That’s why Blue Cross and thousands of doctors and hospitals across Michigan are transforming primary care by emphasizing wellness in the doctor’s office. It’s just one of the many ways we’ve helped save more than $626 million in health care costs. You can learn more at valuepartnerships.com

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

22 Impact

ENTREPRENEUR FOCUSES ON THE PHYSICAL

By Paul Vachon

While it exists to offer fitness options to Detroiters, its success reveals how quickly that goal is being attained.”

ARMOND HARRIS

CO-OWNER, JABS GYM

Armond Harris is a man on a mission. In 2012, while working in the business sector, he observed a worrisome trend — premature deaths of people he knew and in the community at large. Diabetes, obesity, and other unhealthy habits were too often the culprit.

He decided to take action. In 2012, he started Run This Town Detroit, a free community program to encourage anyone to adopt a healthier lifestyle.

In 2016, he became more personally invested by purchasing Jabs Gym, which has locations in Birmingham and Eastern Market in Detroit. Jabs offers a variety of fitness classes but with emphasis on boxing, kickboxing, and yoga for women and men. Over 50 sessions are held each week.

Harris knows that changing the perception (and the reality) that Detroit is an unhealthy city is paramount. He sees his role as part of a community-wide strategy to change that.

“I talk about changing the total infrastructure — to promote more public green space, healthier dining options, and physical fitness

opportunities. Right now Detroit lags behind cities like New York and Boston, which are healthier and more active.”

Harris spreads his message through public speaking and taking an active role in the community. His efforts show progress.

“In 2016, when I bought Jabs in Detroit, we had 43 members.

Now we’re up to 3,000 visits per month.”

The gym recently expanded to an extra floor of its building on Russell Street. Harris attributes this to changing attitudes among native Detroiters and the arrival of newcomers from the East and West Coasts.

The beauty of Jabs is twofold: while it exists to offer fitness options to Detroiters, its success reveals how quickly that goal is being attained. • Paul Vachon is a Detroit freelance writer.

Impact 23

MOVING THE NEEDLE ON GREEN INNOVATION

By Paul Vachon

Today’s citizens benefit from a legacy of research about the relationship between urban green spaces and public health. Studies commissioned by the National Institute of Environmental Health Services cite evidence linking greater physical activity, increased social interactions, and lower overall mortality rates with frequent exposure to parks, greenways, and forested areas.

This research goes back to the late-19th century when landscape architects such as Frederick Law Olmsted articulated the City Beautiful movement. Detroit’s Belle Isle and Cultural Center came out of this effort. In the 21st century, the spirit lives on with Detroit’s newfound emphasis on reviving existing green spaces and creating new ones.

The Detroit Riverfront Conservancy is the preeminent organization in this endeavor. In progress for several years, the group’s Riverfront project provides a nearly uninterrupted 3.5 miles of pedestrian pathway along the East Riverfront, from Hart Plaza to East Grand Boulevard.

The northward Dequindre Cut offers an inland egress.

“One of the things we’ve learned is that the RiverWalk system is much more powerful than any individual park by itself. It allows the visitor to experience not just one, but five parks in the course of an afternoon,” said Mark Wallace, president and CEO of the Conservancy.

As the Riverfront continues to mature, it will serve as an invaluable link between properties, including Gabriel Richard Park, Atwater Beach, and Milliken State Park.

The two-mile stretch west of the Joe Louis Arena site to West Grand Boulevard will complete the Conservancy’s vision, linking Ralph C. Wilson Jr. Centennial Park to the new Riverfront Park via a waterfront easement.

The Detroit RiverWalk and the Dequindre Cut Greenway are open from 6 a.m. to 10 a.m. daily and patrolled by a 24-hour security team. • Paul Vachon is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

100 YEARS OF MICHIGAN’S STATE PARKS 2019 marks the centennial anniversary of state parks being publically available for Michigan communities. The Detroit region and Michigan has an abundance of state parks for residents to enjoy.

103

state parks in Michigan

23

state parks in the Detroit region

11

$

is the cost of an annual recreation passport

24 Impact

WORKPLACE WELLNESS INFLUENCERS

In less than a generation, workplace wellness has gone from an afterthought to a top priority. So much so that many now consider the health and well-being of their employees and their communities integral to a company’s bottom line.

From encouraging healthy lifestyles to promoting engagement in the world outside of work, companies have adopted a range of strategies designed to make lives better.

By Dawson Bell

DAVID ROULS

DAWN JONES

GENER AL MANAGER, SLALOM CONSULTING

SENIOR MANAGER, YAZAKI NORTH AMERICA

Employees: 5,500 Location: Detroit

Employees: 1,400 Location: Canton

“We truly believe in building a culture where our employees love their work and their future. Our consultants work on challenging projects for companies who are influencing Detroit and making it a better city.

“We’re taking a broader approach in 2019, moving from a focus on basic wellness to physical, emotional, financial, and social well-being.”

At the end of the day, our people make Slalom different. We encourage them to change the world and leave a footprint behind.”

Yazaki North America’s headquarters include plenty of walkable space filled with natural light. These elements are built in with employee wellness in mind.

Yazaki is outfitting its headquarters with spaces for new moms, yoga classes, and an on-site telemedicine center.

“Some people assume it is difficult to adapt an office space to accommodate things like that. If you want to do it, it is definitely doable.”

Impact 25 Lapeer

Genesee

St. Clair

Shiawassee

Macomb Oakland

Livingston

Washtenaw

Lenawee

Wayne

It’s a lifelong learning process.

Anything we can do to improve employees’ lives, we need to try to do that.”

ROBERT GRUSCHOW

Monroe

PRESIDENT, DESHLER; CO-FOUNDER, GS3

ROBERT GRUSCHOW

SHERANI SLOUP

ANDY STORM

PRESIDENT, DESHLER; CO-FOUNDER, GS3

CORPOR ATE BENEFITS DIRECTOR, TI AUTOMOTIVE

PRESIDENT AND CEO, ECKHART

Employees: 450 employees Location: Livonia

Employees: 320 Location: Auburn Hills

Employees: 427 Location: Warren

“We started thinking about wellness because we’re self-insured and wanted to be proactive about health challenges.

We wanted to put people in a preventive mindset. That provides financial benefits for both employees and employer.”

TI moved into its current headquarters in 2016, where the company has installed an outdoor eating space attached to the cafeteria and a walking path aimed at “promoting movement throughout the day.”

It also serves to “encourage mental breaks.”

In February, GS3 opened a fresh food market on-site to encourage healthy eating.

Initiatives such as on-site biometric screenings, health fairs, fitness classes, an on-site gym, and a monthly lunch, where experts are brought in to talk about wellness goals, are all aimed at enhancing wellness and well-being at TI.

“When a person wakes up in the morning, employee or customer, they want to have a good day. That can be a challenge in the manufacturing environment. But we don’t have widgets in a machine. The cultural DNA of the organization has always been to support customers and employees.

“It’s a lifelong learning process. Anything we can do to improve employees’ lives, we need to try to do that.”

We want our facilities to be desirable. Do people smile when they walk in the front door?

At the end of the day, our goal is to improve the lives of our employees and customers.”

26 Impact

It’s all about everyday behaviors and habits...proven to help us become and sustain our best selves, both personally and professionally.”

RAY TELANG MANAGING PARTNER, PWC DETROIT

RICHARD SHERIDAN CEO, MENLO INNOVATIONS

RAY TELANG MANAGING PARTNER, PWC DETROIT Employees: 1,465 Location: Detroit

“Business leaders today have to go beyond just motivating their employees. They must inspire them and invest in them holistically to maximize well-being in and out of the workplace.”

PwC has pioneered a company-led wellness program — “Be well, work well”— that instills a culture of prioritizing health and well-being.

“It’s about everyday behaviors and habits proven to help us become and sustain our best selves.”

LATOYA PALMER HR DIRECTOR, P3 NORTH AMERICA

MICHELLE DOTSON DUFOUR DIRECTOR OF GLOBAL BENEFITS, BORGWARNER INC.

Employees: 51 Location: Ann Arbor

Employees: 242 Location: Southfield

Having written books about wellness (“Joy, Inc.” and “Chief Joy Officer”), Sheridan says his goal is “to keep human energy high and stifling bureaucracy low” and “create a joyful culture.” A long-running Gallup survey of workplace engagement typically found that more than two-thirds of workers have little enthusiasm for their jobs.

“As an employer, we have a vested interest in the health and wellness of our employees... it became obvious that we needed to take a holistic view (of employee wellness) mentally, physically, and financially. It affects the bottom line.”

Each of BorgWarner’s 66 global locations has a “Great Place to Work Committee” charged with “meeting (employees) as well as their families where they are.” It’s a strategy that has benefits for the company and its employees.

P3 offers employees financial rewards for exercise and other healthy habits, company-subsidized gym memberships, and on-site recreational opportunities like table tennis and foosball.

BorgWarner provides comprehensive health screening and monitoring, with a related incentive system that can lower employees’ share of insurance premiums to zero, and on-site clinics and counseling centers. • Dawson Bell is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

“Imagine what happens if you flip those statistics.”

Employees: 600 Location: Auburn Hills

28

Action

A PARTNERSHIP WITH A PLAN

By Melissa Anders

While employers benefit from healthier employees, well-being has also been shown to contribute to a more robust economy and community. That’s why the Detroit Regional Chamber teamed up with Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan (BCBSM) to launch Wellness Works, an initiative to improve community well-being in Southeast Michigan.

Wellness Works partners with regional businesses, chambers of commerce, and community organizations to raise awareness of the importance of wellbeing and provides resources and support to make positive changes among their organizations and communities.

“To have economic growth and prosperity in communities, businesses need to place a strong focus on their employee wellness programs,” said Sinziana Luchian, Director of Health Care Initiatives for the Chamber.

Employee well-being impacts whether employees show up for work and are productive, as well as a company’s bottom line. It also plays a role in attracting and retaining talent, Luchian said.

The Chamber and BCBSM will use a website along with educational and community events to help businesses implement wellness programs, showcase healthy strategies, and encourage collaboration toward a healthier Detroit Region. • Melissa Anders is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

Action

29

To have economic growth and prosperity in communities, businesses need to place a strong focus on their employee wellness programs.”

SINZIANA LUCHIAN

DIRECTOR, HEALTH CARE INITIATIVES, DETROIT REGIONAL CHAMBER

Healthy Employees

Business Success

Community Wellness

Thriving Detroit Region

HOW CAN BUSINESSES GET INVOLVED? Use the program’s resources to gain tips and strategies toward building a wellness plan Sign up for the Wellness Works newsletter

Become a supporter of Wellness Works and encourage healthy habits Feature your company’s wellness strategies

Participate in health and wellness events in Southeast Michigan

For more information and to get involved, visit wellnessworksdetroit.com

30

Action

THE HEALTH CARE PULSE

By Dean Brody

While our region has always been known for its strong automotive industry, the health care industry employs more individuals than any other sector in Michigan. Last year, the Detroit Regional Chamber in partnership with Accenture, set out to speak to CEOs and senior leaders from some of the largest health care organizations in Southeast Michigan to glean insight on key strengths, challenges, and opportunities.

The responses we received from leadership was very refreshing. While all acknowledged the competitive nature of the health care players, there was a level of camaraderie and kinship demonstrated in acknowledging the collective strengths of the health care assets and a universal sense of ownership for raising the overall health and wellness of the residents in our region.

Throughout this exploration, some unique strengths, as well as some key challenges and opportunities, were identified about our health care ecosystem.

UNIQUE STRENGTHS

KEY CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES

H I G H D E NS I T Y O F H I G H - QUA LI T Y H E A LT H SYS T EMS

G RE AT E R F OCUS O N SOC I A L D E T E R MI N A N TS O F H E A LT H

While many metropolitan regions may have only one or two marquee health systems to access care, this region has many. All within a 40-mile radius, the area boasts no less than six major health systems all with a long reputation for quality care and quality outcomes.

Many of the CEOs noted the growing research and focus on the social determinants of health, such as income, education, housing, and food insecurity. There was a sense that their organizations could be doing more on this issue, and ideally, more in collaboration with their fellow CEOs and senior health care leaders.

MIS S I O N - D RI V E N

The greatest takeaway is that this region has health care leaders that care and feel a sense of duty for the health and wellness of this region, a shared f ocus on bot h business outcomes and human impact.

And for that, we should all be glad. �

DEAN BRODY MANAGING DIRECTOR, ACCENTURE

Many of the largest health systems and health plans in our region are not-for-profit with a clear mission to serve the needs of our region and its citizens, instead of for-profit shareholders. While the business of health care is still very much a priority, margins can support missions.

WO RLD - C L AS S RES E A RC H A N D AC A D EMI C AS S E TS

Our health care ecosystem sits squarely in the middle of the University Research Corridor of the University of Michigan, Michigan State University, and Wayne State University. The University of Michigan is consistently ranked as one of the best academic medical centers in the country.

CO N T I N U E D E X PLO R AT I O N O F T H E I N T E RS EC T I O N B E T W E E N H E A LT H C A RE A N D MO BI LI T Y

Some CEOs noted the opportunity to explore and implement the intersection between health care and next generation mobility, with a focus on how health care is delivered where people are (e.g. at their homes, work, etc.) instead of in a medical facility.

CONTINUED FOCUS ON INNOVATION

Many CEOs acknowledged the unprecedented levels of venture capital being poured into the health care industry with an eye towards disruption. Most acknowledged current efforts to invest in and encourage innovation within their own organizations and the need to attract talent, ideas, and partnerships from outside their organizations. • Dean Brody is the managing director of Accenture.

Many look to make a difference. At BorgWarner, we’re actually doing it. Every day, we’re innovating new technologies to create a cleaner, more efficient world.

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32 Challenges

HURDLES TO IMPROVE WELLNESS

From urban farms to advancements in mobility, Southeast Michigan is on a steady path to improve its overall well-being. However, statistics in food access, financial security, and transit find that communities require further development.

A 2017 report by the Detroit Food Policy Council and Detroit Health Department stated that, although physical environments are often the focus for improving food access, social environments have a significant impact on health. For example, an important aspect of a healthy food system is good paying jobs.

From difficult economic conditions to child care costs, the financial landscape for Michigan families requires change. Metrics, tools, and policy shifts, from the Michigan Association of United Ways and other organizations in the region, can help residents who are struggling to make ends meet.

On the transit front, Detroit lacks a cohesive transportation system.

However, organizations like Transportation Riders United are working to improve transit in metro Detroit in order to “restore urban vitality, ensure transportation equity, and advance quality of life.”

Cultivating improvements in areas like food access, financial security, and transit can drive the region closer toward individual and community-wide prosperity.

FOOD ACCESS

1

IN DETROIT

48%

40%

of households are food insecure

of households are using SNAP

18%

19%

of SNAP eligible 1 in 5 households are children are not enrolled enrolled in WIC

Food Insecure: Do not have physical or financial access to safe, sufficient, and nutritious food to sustain them every day SNAP: Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program; formerly known as the Food Stamps Program WIC: The special supplemental nutrition program for Women, Infants, and Children

Challenges 33

FINANCIAL SECURITY

TRANSIT

3

$

380 $ 409

2

of households in Detroit are below the ALICE threshold

242 $

$

A Chain of One

Opening May 3rd for our 133rd season.

Come relax in a rocking chair on the world’s longest porch and enjoy views of the Straits of Mackinac and the Mackinac Bridge. Special packages are available for a weekend getaway or your next family vacation.

1. Detroit Food Policy Council 2. The ALICE Project 3. 2016 National Transit Database

Seattle

Detroit regional transit investment per capita is lowest among peer regions

ALICE: Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed

SOURCES:

Boston

Chicago

Pittsburgh

Denver

Austin

Cleveland

Atlanta

Columbus

Nashville

$

82 83 $ 93

123 $ 158 $ 159

$

67 Indianapolis $

70%

Southeast Michigan $

of households in Michigan could not afford basic needs such as housing, child care, food, health care, and transportation

206

$

293

40%

1-800-33GRAND • g r a n d h o te l . c o m

34 Feature

A FORMER ADDICT ATTACKS OPIOID CRISIS USING TELEMEDICINE

By Rene Wisely

Ann Arbor tech entrepreneur Lisa McLaughlin made her career dreams come true, but only after surviving a nightmare.

The University of Michigan graduate cofounded Workit Health, an addiction health care company that offers online treatment and telehealth medicine for opioid use disorder, illicit drugs, and other addictions, including alcohol, gambling, food, and sex.

“Addictions usually come in a merry bunch, so if you’re being treated for one, chances are you have another,” said McLaughlin, 39.

McLaughlin would know. She is a former addict who has been in recovery for 17 years.

She had her first taste of vodka at age 15 to quiet the social anxiety and teen angst that emerges when you run with the wrong crowd to every rave party, she said.

Workit Health is an addiction health care company that offers online treatment and telehealth medicine for opioid use disorder, illicit drugs, and other addictions including alcohol, gambling, food, and sex.

She spent the next seven years curating an opioid addiction. She indulged in heroin-laced ecstasy, mushrooms, acid, and ketamine, as well as cocaine, all washed

Feature 35

OPIOID ADDICTION IN MICHIGAN1 What is an opioid?

Opioids are a class of drugs used to reduce pain. They include prescription medicines such as OxyContin, Vicodin, morphine and fentanyl, as well as the illegal form of it, heroin.

10TH

2,729

IN THE NATION FOR NUMBER OF PRESCRIPTIONS

OVERDOSE DEATHS IN MICHIGAN (2017)

11 MILLION PRESCRIPTIONS WRITTEN ANNUALLY - MORE THAN NUMBER OF RESIDENTS

down with alcohol. She nearly died. She turned blue once after passing out and had to be resuscitated, went temporarily blind for six hours, and had several run-ins with the law.

The final run-in saved her life. Courtmandated Alcoholics Anonymous catapulted her recovery journey.

Now she’s helping others get clean remotely using live video chats with doctors, therapists, and coaches, just as the opioid epidemic spreads. About 130 people die each day in the United States from opioids, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services reports.

71%

OVERDOSE FATALITIES EXCEED TRAFFIC AND FIREARMS DEATHS COMBINED

OVERDOSE DEATHS WERE OPIOIDRELATED

1,028

TRAFFIC DEATHS

41

%

PRESCRIPTIONS INCREASE BETWEEN 2009 AND 2015

(2017)

1,230

FIREARM DEATHS (2016)

ADDICTION RESOURCES Workit Health (734) 329-5419 | www.workithealth.com

McLaughlin’s success has caught the eye of Michigan’s business community, which is eager to keep its employees healthy and productive. The American Society of Addiction Medicine found opioids cost employers $10 billion in lost productivity and absenteeism.

University of Michigan Addiction Treatment Services (734) 764-0231 www.medicine.umich.edu/dept/psychiatry/programs/addiction-center

“We work with some forward-thinking employers that offer their members our program completely anonymously.

Helping others makes that powerlessness go away.” •

Detroit Wayne Mental Health Authority (800) 241-4949 | www.dwmha.com

State of Michigan’s Office of Recovery (844) 275-6324

Oakland Community Health Network (248) 858-1210 | www.oaklandchn.org

Rene Wisely is a metro Detroit freelance writer.

SOURCE: 1. Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and Workit Health

36 Membership

POINT OF VIEW PETER LUCIDO 8 TH D I S T R I C T

AS AN OUTSPOKEN CRITIC OF LEGALIZED MARIJUANA FOR RECREATIONAL PURPOSES, WHAT ARE YOUR BIGGEST CONCERNS ABOUT THE NEW LAW?

HOW DOES MARIJUANA LEGALIZATION AFFECT MICHIGAN BUSINESS?

Regardless of Michigan’s laws, marijuana possession and use are still federal crimes. As more states move to legalize, Congress and the federal government need to act to provide direction and guidance for the states. Beyond that, there are other ramifications that it has on our society. I am concerned of its impact on our youth, in the workforce, and in terms of taxation and regulation.

WHAT WOULD YOU RECOMMEND TO BUSINESSES TO HELP ALLEVIATE CONFUSION AND ENSURE COMPLIANCE AS THEY AMEND THEIR WORKPLACE POLICIES? This is one of my biggest concerns with the law—the impact on business owners and their customers. My advice is for businesses, business associations, and chambers of commerce to seek the advice of legal counsel when considering workplace policies related to marijuana use. It’s a decision that could have a big impact, legally and financially.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY FOR THE YEAR? My top priority is to reform civil asset forfeiture to ensure the due process rights of innocent Michigan residents. Right now, law enforcement has the authority to take and keep individuals’ property even if they haven’t been charged with a crime, let alone convicted of one. My bill would require that an individual be convicted of or plead guilty to a crime before law enforcement could take ownership of their personal property through the civil asset forfeiture process.

Peter Lucido is the Republican senator-elect representing Michigan’s 8th District.

JEFF IRWIN 18 TH D I S T R I C T

YOU’VE BEEN A LONGTIME ADVOCATE FOR LEGALIZED MARIJUANA. WHY IS THIS ISSUE SO IMPORTANT TO YOU PERSONALLY?

Prohibition is a costly, destructive failure. Given that I believe this to be factual, I have an obligation to stand up for the public interest and call for an end to this costly, failed, big government policy. Prior to the passage of Proposal 1, over 20,000 people were arrested every year in Michigan. These arrests harm those residents, their families, and their employers.

And we all pay for these arrests, as well as the associated prosecution, jail, and prohibition costs.

HAS MICHIGAN HAD AN OPPORTUNITY TO LEARN FROM OTHER STATES’ CAUTIONARY TALES AND HOW DO WE AVOID SIMILAR HURDLES? Michigan absolutely has the opportunity to learn from the growing pains that other states have experienced.

One example is the tax rate. Our 16% tax on cannabis was set to maximize revenue and limit activity in the black market. Other states, such as Colorado and Washington, have set rates so high that unregulated sales have a huge market advantage. States like Massachusetts, have set a much lower tax, so low that it misses this important opportunity to address our long-standing needs in our schools, our local governments, and on our roads.

WHAT IS YOUR TOP LEGISLATIVE PRIORITY FOR THE YEAR? Increasing support to K-12 schools is the most important action the Legislature can take to secure the future prosperity of Michigan. • Jeff Irwin is the Democratic senator-elect representing Michigan’s 18th District.

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From fitness and wellness to lifestyle and healthy eating, we’re got plenty of deals to keep you and your family healthy. Learn more at bcbsm.com.

“Highest Member satisfaction among Commercial Health Plans in Michigan”

Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network are nonprofit corporations and independent licensees of the Blue Cross and Blue Shield Association.

For J.D. Power 2018 award information, visit jdpower.com/awards.

R085576

38 Membership

SMALL BUSINESS:

A NEW OPTION FOR AFFORDABLE HEALTH INSURANCE

Members can now access an exclusive suite of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan and Blue Care Network plans through the Chamber’s Association Health Plan partnership.

To learn more, visit detroitchamber.com/Transcend-AHP

ONE Michigan TROY, MI l GRAND RAPIDS, MI

P R E PA R E

G ROW

L OV E M AY 2 8 - 3 1 , 2 0 1 9 R E G I S T R AT I O N N OW O P E N .

TO R E G I ST E R , V I S IT DETROITCHAMBER.COM

info@creativedaytech.com c re a t i ve d ay t e c h . co m

40 Membership

IN THE

NEWS Bedrock, the real estate arm of businessman Dan Gilbert’s family of companies, announced that H&M will open a 25,000-square-foot space on the west side of Woodard Avenue between John R Street and Park Avenue south of Grand Circus Park. Bedrock said the H&M store will feature men’s, women’s, and children’s apparel in one location, and be the first downtown location to offer a full range of apparel in decades.

GOOD THINGS ARE HAPPENING TO BUSINESSES THROUGHOUT METRO DETROIT to jobs in a variety of industries. The deal will allow students the option of 27 courses in seven industry areas: business and entrepreneurship, health care, technology, media and arts, law, education and public safety, engineering, manufacturing and transportation, construction, and service.

The Michigan Manufacturing Technology Center helped create or retain more than 10,000 jobs and assisted in $251 million in new sales, according to the 2018 client impact survey conducted for the center by an independent third party, the Fors Marsh Group of Virginia. The new survey questioned 425 MMTC client companies.

DTE Energy’s newest wind park called Pine River, located in mid-Michigan’s Gratiot and Isabella counties, began operation in March.

With 65 turbines, Pine River is the largest operating wind park in Michigan as well as DTE’s most cost-effective and cost-efficient wind project to date.

Rehmann announced that it has joined forces with Troy-based QuadWest Associates, LLC. This blend creates great value as it provides clients access to a broader suite of human resources (HR) solutions. QuadWest associates will join Rehmann’s Troy office.

Employers and members now have access to live, weekly well-being webinars and downloadable health resources, courtesy of Blue Cross Blue Shield of Michigan’s new Virtual Well-Being program. The program provides members with a convenient way to improve their overall wellbeing and helps employers create a culture of well-being to maintain a more physically and emotionally healthy workforce.

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles recently announced a $4.5 billion manufacturing expansion in southeast Michigan that will bring nearly 6,500 jobs to the region. FCA plans to convert the Mack Avenue Engine factory to an assembly plant for the next-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee and a new, large Jeep SUV. In all, the company said it will add production at five factories in metro Detroit.

Butzel Long has added Steve Ratliff as the firm’s new chief information officer. In addition, Vanessa Crocetto has been promoted to chief marketing officer; Joanne Klimko is now chief administrative officer; and, Lori Thomas has been promoted to chief human resources officer.

Ford Motor Company has decided to use 100 percent renewable energy to power its Dearborn Truck Plant, where it produces the topselling F-150, and the Michigan Assembly Plant, where it makes the new Ford Ranger, and several other buildings in metro Detroit — including Michigan Central Station in Corktown. About 500,000 megawatt-hours of wind power, enough to power about 225,000 homes, will come from DTE Energy’s MIGreenPower program.

Chemical Bank has purchased the naming rights of Cobo Center in a 22-year deal that will change the brand of Detroit’s riverfront convention center as the bank moves to solidify its growing regional presence ahead of a planned merger with TCF Bank. The 59-year-old convention facility will become known as TCF Center if the merge is approved by federal regulators.

Passenger traffic at Detroit Metropolitan Airport grew 1.5 percent in 2018, with a push from new domestic routes and a boost in international flights. Approximately 35.2 million people flew in and out of the airport in Romulus last year, the highest since 2007, the Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport Authority said in a news release.

Detroit Public Schools Community District will offer more dual enrollment options through Wayne County Community College District for high school students seeking pathways

JPMorgan Chase is committing $15 million for economic development in 10 Detroit neighborhoods targeted by the city’s Strategic Neighborhood Fund. The New York City-based bank is providing a $5 million grant for the city’s $130 million Strategic Neighborhood Fund 2.0 launched in 2018 and $10 million for low-cost loans, 70 percent of which must be used for projects within the SNF footprint.

Lear, an automotive seating and electrical systems supplier in Southfield, has signed the Hyundai-Kia America Technical Center Inc. in Superior Township as the first development partner in its EXO Technology Partnership Program, a collaborative effort in autonomous driving.

Plunkett Cooney elected four new partners to the firm’s Board of Directors at their recent Annual Meeting. Partners Christina L. Corl, Jeffrey C. Gerish, Jeffrey S. Hengeveld and Matthew J. Stanczyk were elected. Corl was elected to her first three-year term as a member of the board while Gerish, Hengeveld and Stanczyk were reelected to three-year terms.

The Skillman Foundation has awarded COTS (Coalition on Temporary Shelter) a $200,000 grant to fund a new program that uses art, plus social and emotional engagement, to help homeless youth develop important mental health markers related to executive functioning.

UHY Advisors Michigan Inc., announced the appointment of four new managing directors: Michelle Felmlee, Brent Jones, Chad Kime and Todd Tigges. A fifth person from Missouri also made managing director, Jill Starrs. UHY Advisors Michigan Inc. promoted 73 other employees, including five principals: Kevin Burns, Cory McNeley, Andrew Molokac, Stephanie Rosenbaum and Jeff Solis.

The University of Detroit Mercy has received a $6.1 million donation, the largest in its 140-year history, that it will use to boost its business college. The gift comes from the estate of Arnold Jarboe, a 1954 graduate of the university who spent his career as an attorney for the Social Security Administration and died in 2016. It will be used to endow a new chair in the College of Business Administration, Evan Peterson, who will lead the school’s new Center for Practice & Research in Management & Ethics (PRIME), to be operational for the fall semester.

The University of Michigan in Ann Arbor will make a $2.75-million initial investment into four institutional startups and could fund up to $20 million through subsequent financing rounds. The four startups receiving the investments will be MemryX, Ripple Science, GreenMark Biomedical, and Give and Take.

Vectorform LLC, a software company in Royal Oak, is one of three companies working with Amazon in its Dash Replenishment Service Solution Providers program to invent connected devices that can automatically reorder inventory from Amazon before supplies start running low.

Walsh College will host The 10th Annual Walsh HR Summit on May 10, 2019. The conference will cover areas like education and training for HR professionals and attracts more than 150 HR professionals annually.

Waymo will expand its presence in Michigan with a $13.6 million self-driving car manufacturing plant in Southeast Michigan.

The self-driving technology company, a subsidiary of Alphabet Inc. established in 2016, states this plant will be the world’s first factory 100 percent dedicated to the mass production of L4 autonomous vehicles.

Vectorform is a digital transformation and innovation company.

For nearly 20 years, we’ve been helping organizations define the future of their business and bring that future to life by turning innovative ideas into scalable, market-proven realities.

CEO provides immediate, effective, and comprehensive employment services to individuals who have recently returned home from incarceration.

Since 1996, we have made more than 30,000 placements with employers like you.

Learn more at ceoworks.org.

7310 Woodward Ave., Detroit, MI

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We can customize a plan that’s right for your business and budget. That’s why over two-thirds of the Fortune 100 companies consider Constellation America’s energy choice®.

To learn more about Constellation, visit www.constellation.com.

© 2019 Constellation Energy Resources, LLC. The offerings described herein are those of either Constellation NewEnergy, Inc. or Constellation NewEnergy-Gas Division, LLC, affiliates of each other and ultimate subsidiaries of Exelon Corporation. Brand names and product names are trademarks or service marks of their respective holders. All rights reserved. Errors and omissions excepted.

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42 Membership

ON THE

ROSTER ELITE MEMBERSHIP

Bruce Smith 126014 Artesian St. Detroit, MI 48223 313.300.4882 www.dms-na.com DMS develops state of the art automotive interior systems. Utilizing the latest technology we assemble and manufacture injection molded interior trim components for global automotive brands with a commitment to quality and efficiency.

Sean Kendall 1 Campus Martius, Suite 700 Detroit, MI 48226 313.324.3700 www.mhplan.com Meridian Health are a group of passionate leaders, achievers, and innovators dedicated to making a difference in the lives of their members, providers, and in the health care industry. They provide government-based health plans (Medicare, Medicaid, and the Health Insurance Marketplace) in three different states (Michigan, Illinois, and Ohio). Their mission is to continuously improve the quality of care in a low resource environment. This means they want to make high-quality healthcare easier to give and receive.

JOIN US IN WELCOMING THESE NEW MEMBERS TO THE CHAMBER. WE ENCOURAGE YOU TO CONTACT THEM FOR FUTURE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES.

Oswald Companies is one of the nation’s most successful and admired insurance brokerage and risk consulting firms. In Detroit since 2006, Oswald is home to Property and Casualty, Employee Benefits and Life Insurance practices, with concentrations in private equity, construction, real estate, personal client management, risk management, and international. In 2018, Oswald was named the No. 1 Cool Place to Work in Michigan by Crain’s Detroit Business and earned the Birmingham Bloomfield Chamber Thrive Award.

Connie Thompson 1500 West Big Beaver Road, 2nd Floor Troy, MI 48084 248.952.5000 www.rehmann.com Rehmann is a fully integrated financial services and advisory firm, consisting of CPAs, consultants, and advisors dedicated to providing clients proactive ideas and solutions to help them prosper professionally and personally. Rehmann has nearly 900 associates in offices located in Michigan, Ohio, and Florida.

Rehmann is an independent member of Nexia International, offering clients a global approach.

PREMIER MEMBERSHIP Center for Employment Opportunities Margrit Allen 7310 Woodward Ave., Suite 701B Detroit, MI 48202 313.636.2868 www.ceoworks.org

Catherine Kosin 39572 Woodward Ave., Suite 201 Bloomfield Hills, MI 48304 248.433.1466 www.oswaldcompanies.com

CEO offers individuals just coming home from prison the ongoing support necessary to build career capital and financial stability. They believe that everyone, regardless of their past, deserves the chance to work toward a stronger future for themselves, their families, and their communities.

As the largest reentry employment provider in the country, CEO is using their scale, experience, and

data – backed by their participants’ feedback on what works – to best serve their participants and their communities.

Constellation An Excelon Company Tracie Genaw 2211 Old Earhart Road, Suite 175 Ann Arbor, MI 48105 810.385.1211 www.constellation.com As one of the top five operating costs for most businesses, energy is an important part of overall business strategy. With a strategic approach to energy management, you can make a direct impact on your bottom line. Constellation, one of the nation’s leading competitive energy providers, has the expertise to execute customized strategies for unique business needs. They offer comprehensive energy solutions and a variety of pricing options for electric, natural gas, and renewable energy products for companies of any size, in every competitive market across the U.S. Creative Day Technologies Dave Gillis 1987 Larchwood Drive Troy, MI 48083 248.840.0999 www.creativedaytech.com Creative Day Technologies is a business theater consultant and provider with over 30 years of experience in the media industry. They specialize in live events, content creation, visual display and audio/visual solutions, whether that is for a town hall meeting, corporate event, or award show. From initial concepts through final delivery they execute all stages of production to deliver the complete audio/ visual solution you need to relay your message easily and accurately. It’s Your Day, Let’s Create!

Mercantile Bank Todd Witmer 1700 West Big Beaver Road, 1st Floor Troy, MI 48084 248.434.5556 www.mercbank.com

Membership 43 Founded in 1997, Mercantile Bank of Michigan is a community bank operating 45 banking offices throughout Michigan. Mercantile has a strong and extensive commercial and retail banking presence, offering an array of innovative products and services. A team of local specialists understand the challenges that face businesses and consumers today and can help strengthen the diverse communities they serve.

PepsiCo Inc. Armando Saleh 555 West Monroe St. Chicago, IL 60661 312.821.1948 www.pepsi.com PepsiCo provides consumers around the world with delicious, affordable, convenient, and complementary food and beverages from wholesome breakfasts to healthy and fun daytime snacks and beverages to evening treats. PepsiCo generated more than $63 billion in net revenue in 2017, driven by a complementary food and beverage portfolio that includes Frito-Lay, Gatorade, Pepsi-Cola, Quaker, and Tropicana.

PepsiCo’s product portfolio includes a wide range of enjoyable foods and beverages, including 22 brands that generate more than $1 billion each in estimated annual retail sales.

SAE International Nicole Gize 755 West Big Beaver Road, Suite 1600 Troy, MI 48084 734.273.2455 www.sae.org SAE International is a global association committed to being the ultimate knowledge source for the engineering profession. By engaging nearly 200,000 engineers, technical experts, and volunteers, they drive knowledge and expertise across a broad spectrum of industries. SAE International acts on two priorities: encouraging a lifetime of learning for mobility engineering professionals and setting the standards for industry engineering.

ScaleFactor Michael Lonero 1408 East 13th St. Austin, TX 78702 630.338.6938 www.scalefactor.com ScaleFactor is the smart finance and back office management software that is changing the way modern businesses operate. By automating complex bookkeeping tasks and translating financial information into usable business insights, ScaleFactor enables business owners, managers,

and entrepreneurs to focus on what they love: running and growing their business.

Vectorform Trish Miller 123 West Fifth St. Royal Oak, MI 48067 248.777.7777 www.vectorform.com Vectorform is a platform designed to help organizations invent digital products and customer experiences. With nearly 20 years of tested experience, Vectorform helps organizations define the future of their business and solve complex problems to build beyond an idea. They offer a specialized perspective that provides momentum for brand innovation and better customer experiences.

GENERAL MEMBERSHIP American Civil Liberties Union of Michigan www.aclumich.org Bank of Ann Arbor www.bankofannarbor.com Boyne Resorts www.boyne.com Center for Neurological Studies www.neurologicalstudies.com ChapmanBlack Detroit www.chapmanblack.com Cohn Commercial Properties www.cohncommercial.com Collins Einhorn Farrell PC www.ceflawyers.com De La Salle Collegiate www.delasallehs.com Encore Catering & Banquet Center www.encorebanquets.com Environmental Consulting & Technology Inc. www.ectinc.com Fink Bressack www.finkbressack.com Fort Street Galley www.galleygrp.com GDI Integrated Facility Services www.gdi.com Gordon Food Service www.gfs.com Great Lakes Data Systems www.glds.net GTA Professional Staffing www.gta.jobs Impact Events www.impacteventsinc.com

Know Advertising www.knowad.com Leaders Advancing and Helping Communities (LAHC) www.lahc.org Lake Trust Credit Union www.laketrust.org Michigan Aggregates Association www.miagg.org Michigan Cannabis Industry Association www.micannabisindustryassociation.org Michigan Chronicle www.michronicleonline.com Michigan College Access Network www.micollegeaccess.org Midland Business Alliance www.midlandbusinessalliance.org NBS www.yournbs.com Orleans Landing www.orleanslandingapts.com PACE Southeast Michigan www.pacesemi.org Playworks www.playworks.org preplanwithus.com www.preplanwithus.com RCP Associates 313.963.2739 Rickard and Associates PC www.larlegal.com Rostova Enterprises 305.733.1753 RPM-The Driving Force in Logistics www.loadrpm.com Southwest Airlines www.southwest.com Spalding DeDecker www.sda-eng.com Tillman LLC www.tillmanllc.com Trailer Events LLC www.trailerevents.com Willis Towers Watson www.towerswatson.com

Innovations in Mobility A REVOLUTIONARY TR ANSFORMATION

O c t o b e r 2 9 –3 1 , 2 0 1 9 | N o v i , M I | sae . org / iim

FA L L 2 0 1 9

SMART MANUFACTURING | NEXT GEN MATERIALS | ADVANCED PROPULSION SMART MOBILITY AND INFRASTRUCTURE | AUTOMATED & UNMANNED MOBILITY P19337241_IIM_ad_det_chamber_commerce_f.indd 1

2/26/19 1:28 PM

MEMBERSHIP REC EPT I ON Tuesday, April 16 5 p.m. to 7 p.m.

The Whiskey Factory 1000 Maple Street Detroit, MI 48207

$15 Chamber members-only For more information or to register, please contact Maggie Greaney at 313.596.0482.

BUILDING RELATIONSHIPS FROM THE GROUND UP. 1700 W. Big Beaver Rd., Ste 100

248.434.5556

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WINNING WITH PURPOSE our ambition to win sustainably in the marketplace, while doing good for the planet and our communities.

When business is booming, your need for tax planning and all-inclusive business consulting is top of mind. Your first call should be to someone who knows you and your business. Our trustworthy advice, answers and guidance take the stress out of every challenge and change.

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rehmann.com/growing | 866.799.9580

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WE GROW MICHIGAN BUSINESS LIKE NOBODY’S BUSINESS. PURE PARTNERSHIP You know your business better than anyone. But MEDC knows more about Michigan businesses than everyone.

We’re here to help you build relationships through our Pure Michigan Business Connect program, assist with finding access to capital at every stage, expand into global markets through our International Trade Program and get you going in the mobility sector through PlanetM. Unsure how your business can benefit?

Give us a call, we have the answers. Find out more at michiganbusiness.org/pure-partnership

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Renewable Energy for Michigan

Going green is how we sustain a healthier planet. It’s how we build a better tomorrow for our friends and neighbors.

And by increasing renewable energy to more than 40%, we’re taking action for a cleaner Michigan.

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