The United Resiliency Center, poised to provide much-needed mental health services, is set to open near Michigan State University next Monday. Jeff Kapuscinski, chief external relations officer for Common Ground, told CBS Detroit that the new facility will feature a multipurpose room for group therapy and a variety of therapy forms, catered to address the community's needs. The center is the product of Common Ground's efforts, a crisis services agency committed to supporting individuals in the aftermath of traumatic events.
The center is not only for those directly touched by the university but is also aimed to serve the wider East Lansing community. As stated by Janet Sarkos, chief of crisis operations for Common Ground, in a statement acquired by WGVU, "It’s really normalizing all of the extremely strong and painful and difficult feelings that come from with experiencing a mass violence event." The center is scheduled to include community gathering spaces and support through virtual appointments as well.
Funding for the center comes from a federal anti-terrorism grant, ensuring that the facility will be free of charge for the public. The space is designed to not just offer services, but also to act as a place where individuals can freely hang out and be heard. According to FOX 47 News, the center will be staffed with full-time and support staff, with additional personnel to join post-opening. Its doors will be open for tours starting Monday, before the official opening.
One of the standout features of the center is Wiley, the therapy dog, along with victim advocacy, referral services, and support groups, which all contribute to a calming atmosphere. "Everybody deserves to tell their story, this is a place to do that, we're here to listen," Sarkos told FOX 47 News. And while the initial funding is expected to last two to four years, Sarkos reassured the community that "We are in it for the long haul," promising continued support as long as there is a need.
The opening of the United Resiliency Center couldn't come at a more crucial time. State Representative Julie Brixie expressed to WGVU that "the aftereffects of these types of events can be very long and very widespread,” highlighting the profound impact mass shootings have on communities. The center's mission extends beyond the campus of MSU, striving to provide solace and support for any and all who are grappling with the aftermath of violence and distress.
