The village of Rosebush is becoming a hub for assisting those in the region affected by Autism Spectrum Disorder.
Community Mental Health for Central Michigan is celebrating the opening of its Rosebush Early Learning Center with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. The event takes place on Wednesday, Nov. 14.
The Early Learning Center operates out of a room at Rosebush Elementary School, where it’s been treating students ranging in ages from zero to 21 since July of this year. The center aims to become a regional resource, welcoming students and their families from Isabella County as well as its Clare, Gladwin, Mecosta, and Osceola county neighbors.
Community Mental Health for Central Michigan has been offering in-home services since 2012. The center allows the organization to provide even more resources for children, individuals, and their families.
"It’s important to have those that are receiving services to feel support and be among their peers, and also for their families," says Emily Bongard, program supervisor for the CMHCM autism program.
"We’re planning on introducing family support services soon, too."
The center integrates behavioral health services with medical treatment for those diagnosed with an Autism Spectrum Disorder. These services include early intervention, screening and assessments, evidence-based treatment services, interventions, and health care.
The elementary school location allows for both indoor and outdoor activities and lessons.
The Rosebush Early Learning Center was made possible by an $85,000 grant from the Michigan Health Endowment Fund as well as collaborations with Gratiot-Isabella RESD, Clare-Gladwin RESD, Mecosta-Osceola ISD, Central Michigan University, McLaren for Central Michigan, Mt. Pleasant Public Schools, and local medical providers.
"We’re really excited. We already have 15 children receiving services. Kids are coming from all over, from Beaverton, Clare, Harrison," Bongard says.
"This is a true regional resource."
The Rosebush Early Learning Center is located at 3771 N. Mission Rd. in Rosebush.
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