June 17, 2011
Contact: Sara Wurfel
Office: 517-335-6397
Email: wurfels@michigan.gov
DETROIT - Gov. Rick Snyder today presented Southwest Solutions with a Reinventing Michigan award in recognition of its commitment to revitalizing southwest Detroit and providing access to health care through a unique partnership.
Southwest Solutions and its partner organizations formed 5716 Wellness, which is devoted to improving the health and well-being of families by providing access to quality, affordable and efficient medical and behavioral health care for low-income families. Adding to the uniqueness of 5716 Wellness is its location, which is in a historic building designed by famed architect Albert Kahn that once housed a cigar factory.
Snyder presented the award during the grand opening of 5716 Wellness.
"Healthy families are essential to our reinvention of Michigan," Snyder said. "Southwest Solutions and its partners are providing residents access to health and behavioral care. This coalition has stepped up to provide needed services that will build a stronger community.
"Putting a former cigar factory to use as a place that now promotes health and wellness is a great example of creativity and reinvention," the governor continued. "The Reinventing Michigan award recognizes those who make Michigan a better place through innovation and dedication, and Southwest Solutions is a most deserving recipient."
The integrated approach and wide-range of services offered by 5716 Wellness include preventative measures that keep families healthy while also helping to control health care costs.
Organizations that partnered with Southwest Solutions include Covenant Community Care, Madonna University's Southwest Women's Education and Empowerment Program, Life Directions, Children's Outreach, and Moms and Babes Too.
The Reinventing Michigan award, created by the renowned glass artisans at The Henry Ford, is a celebration of people and organizations dedication to their community, and their vision and creativity used to achieve goals. The award incorporates a light bulb which symbolizes inspiration, invention, and innovation. The award was paid for with private funds.
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