In every school, there are people who go beyond their job descriptions—who become lifelines for students and families in moments of need. For the 2025 **Communities In Schools of Michigan Advocate of the Year Award**, that person is Ms. Wurie. Known for her deep compassion, tireless commitment, and genuine human connection, Ms. Wurie has become much more than a staff member. She is a trusted adult, a consistent presence, and, for many, a safe haven.

Her impact is most powerfully seen in personal stories. One grandparent shared how her granddaughter Caitlin was struggling at school and emotionally overwhelmed. Ms. Wurie stepped in—not with judgment, but with open arms and an open door. She gave Caitlin a quiet place to retreat and someone to talk to. That simple yet powerful act made all the difference. For Caitlin, Ms. Wurie wasn’t just a staff member; she was her safe place.

Ms. Wurie’s approach to advocacy is rooted in empathy. She puts herself in the shoes of her students and their families. She doesn’t just focus on the classroom—she builds relationships with parents and caregivers, creating a bridge between home and school. Her respect for every person’s story is evident, and it’s part of what sets her apart.

Perhaps the most telling moment of Ms. Wurie’s dedication came when a student without a caregiver needed someone to attend a behavior hearing. While others stepped back, Ms. Wurie stepped forward. She showed up as his advocate and ensured he received fair treatment. Because of her support, his long-term suspension was reduced, and he hasn’t been suspended since. That ripple effect is what advocacy looks like in real time.

When asked why students trust her, one simple but powerful response said it all: “Because you listen. You listen and you don’t judge.” It’s not about grand titles or policies—it’s about being present and human. Ms. Wurie herself says, “It’s not about me being a district administrator… It’s about me just being human and having a heart.”

Her message echoes a timeless African proverb: *“It takes a village.”* Through her work, Ms. Wurie shows that the village isn’t built on titles—it’s built on people who care enough to show up. Her consistency, her listening ear, and her unwavering presence create lasting change, not just in students’ lives but in the fabric of the entire school community.

The **2025 Communities In Schools of Michigan Advocate of the Year** is more than a title—it’s a tribute to someone who reminds us that advocacy is for everyone. Whether you’re a teacher, a coach, a parent, or a neighbor, you have the power to listen, support, and show up. And as Ms. Wurie shows us, that might be the thing someone remembers forever.

**Thank you, Ms. Wurie, for reminding us all what true advocacy looks like.**

In this video, you will learn more about Rathbun Agency.

For over 65 years, they have been providing quality insurance service to the Lansing area, and we get to meet and hear from some of the people you will meet if you do business with them.

Vote for them: unodeuce.com/deucey-awards

Nubian, a retail store focused on Nubian fashion and culture, hosted a fashion show in November 2024 aimed to unite the community and bust down cultural barriers through the power of fashion.

Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) is a progressive health condition that impacts millions worldwide. With its often subtle onset, early detection is critical for managing the disease and improving patient outcomes. Marie Haverkamp, a family nurse practitioner at Cass Study Family Practice, has been at the forefront of efforts to strengthen CKD detection. Through her work with the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative, the Michigan Center for Rural Health, and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, Marie has gained valuable insights into the importance of early CKD diagnosis and how technology can play a key role in saving lives.

### Participating in the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative

Marie Haverkamp has long understood the vital need for early detection of CKD. As a family nurse practitioner, she has actively participated in the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative, a partnership aimed at improving CKD detection and management across Michigan. Working closely with organizations like the Michigan Center for Rural Health and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan, Marie has helped promote strategies that empower healthcare providers and patients.

According to Marie, “Early detection of CKD gives patients more options when diagnosed in the earlier stages.” This proactive approach allows healthcare providers to intervene sooner, slowing the disease’s progression and offering patients a range of treatment options.

### Leveraging Technology for Better CKD Detection

One of the standout achievements at Cass Study Family Practice has been implementing advanced technology in their approach to CKD management. Marie has spearheaded automated alerts within the clinic’s Electronic Health Records (EHR) system. These alerts are specifically designed to flag patients who are at higher risk for CKD, including those with diabetes or hypertension.

The alerts prompt practitioners to conduct critical tests such as estimating the Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR) and measuring urine creatinine albumin ratios. Marie ensured that the clinic staff received proper training to respond swiftly to these alerts, enhancing the overall efficiency of the CKD detection process. The result is more accurate early diagnoses and a streamlined experience for both healthcare providers and patients.

### Valuable Resources for CKD Management

Another key resource that Marie emphasizes in her work is the “How to Manage CKD” handout from the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan. This resource offers essential guidelines for managing CKD, including initial screening procedures, detection criteria, and classification systems that help clinicians better understand and treat the disease at various stages.

These materials have become essential tools for Marie and her colleagues, enabling them to approach CKD with greater confidence and expertise. By equipping healthcare providers with such valuable resources, Marie believes improving the quality of care and treatment options for patients at all stages of CKD is possible.

### Early Detection: A Cornerstone for Better Patient Outcomes

The Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative’s focus on early detection reminds us of the significant impact that proactive healthcare can have. Identifying CKD in its early stages allows healthcare providers to intervene with targeted treatments that can slow disease progression, enhance patients’ quality of life, and provide more options for managing the condition.

Marie highlights several key benefits of early CKD diagnosis:
More Treatment Options: Early Diagnosis of CKD opens up a range of potential management strategies to slow the disease’s progression.
Patient Education: Early detection provides an opportunity to educate patients about their condition, empowering them to be more involved in their care.
– **Improved Quality of Life:** With timely intervention, patients can often experience fewer symptoms and maintain a higher quality of life.

### What Is CKD and Who Is at Risk?

CKD is a gradual decline in kidney function, which impairs the kidneys’ ability to filter waste from the blood. This condition is typically diagnosed through tests like GFR and urine creatinine albumin ratios—measures that are becoming more commonplace in practices like Marie’s.

High-risk groups for CKD include individuals with:
– Diabetes
– High blood pressure
– A family history of kidney disease

In the early stages of CKD, patients often experience few or no symptoms, which is why early testing and detection are so crucial. However, as the disease progresses, signs may include fatigue, swelling in the ankles and feet, and high blood pressure.

### Conclusion

Marie Haverkamp’s work within the Chronic Kidney Disease Collaborative highlights the transformative power of early detection of CKD. By partnering with organizations like the Michigan Center for Rural Health and the National Kidney Foundation of Michigan and utilizing cutting-edge technology in the form of EHR alerts, Marie is helping to ensure that more patients receive the timely care they need.

Her approach reflects a broader shift in healthcare toward proactive, patient-centered care. By emphasizing the importance of early detection, Marie and her colleagues are improving the immediate and long-term health outcomes for people with CKD.

As Marie herself concludes, “We need to continue emphasizing early detection, as it presents more treatment avenues and better outcomes for patients.” This message underscores the critical role that early diagnosis plays in managing CKD and offers hope for better care and healthier futures for patients everywhere.

In a world where division and challenges often dominate the headlines, stories of connection, love, and giving back shine brightly as beacons of hope. The journey of Michelle Hoffman and Carmen Moultrie-Turner is one such story—a testament to the transformative power of volunteerism, the lasting impact of service, and the deep joy found in making a difference in the lives of others.

**A Blessed Beginning**

Michelle Hoffman’s story starts with a simple yet profound sentiment: “I hit the adoption lottery with my parents and have had such a great life because of my parents.” From the beginning, Michelle’s parents instilled in her the values of service and generosity. One of the most significant moments came when she was just a child. Instead of celebrating the holidays in the typical fashion, her parents dedicated their time to charity.

“No, we’re going to celebrate next week. Daddy and I are going to work.”

This pivotal moment set the foundation for Michelle’s lifelong journey of volunteerism, a path that would lead her to touch countless lives. The family’s decision to serve at local charities, allowing others to be with their families during the holidays, made a lasting impression on Michelle. It was an early lesson in putting others before oneself.

**Growing Up With Volunteerism**

By nine, Michelle was already making a difference in her community. She helped an elderly couple—survivors of the Holocaust—by mowing their lawn and shoveling their snow. As she grew older, her acts of service expanded. Throughout high school, she was actively involved in fundraising efforts and supporting charitable events, always wanting to give back and contribute meaningfully to her community.

**From Small Tasks to Lifelong Passion**

Reflecting on her early experiences with volunteerism, Michelle often recalls how these formative moments shaped her trajectory. Her sense of giving did not end after high school. After graduation, Michelle worked in the for-profit sector but soon realized her true calling lay elsewhere.

“That’s when you know if this is your trajectory, or is this something that’s kind of expected?”

Her heart was drawn to service, and it was a natural shift for her to dedicate over two decades to working in the nonprofit sector, where her passion for helping others truly flourished.

**Leadership at the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing**

Carmen’s commitment to serving others peaked when she became CEO of the Boys and Girls Club of Lansing. There, she spent over twenty years guiding and nurturing an organization dedicated to empowering young people. Under her leadership, the Club became a beacon of hope and opportunity for many young lives.

**The Impact of Small Acts**

Carmen has always believed in the power of small acts of kindness and understanding their far-reaching effects. She shares a powerful insight on the impact of ripple of service:

“Some people put a small value on touching a person’s life, but what you don’t understand is if you touch that person’s life, you are touching generations, which changes the dynamic.”

These words encapsulate the idea that a tiny act of service can change not just a single life but generations to come. It is the little things that add up to make a monumental difference.

**A Call to Action: Do It**

Carmen’s message to anyone considering volunteering is simple yet impactful: “Just do it.” She encourages people to take action in a world that often seems filled with excuses and limitations. Even if finding time to volunteer feels difficult, she reminds us that donations are another valuable way to contribute.

**Cultivating a Community of Change**

What stands out in Carmen’s story is not just her journey but the community she has helped foster. It’s a community built on the idea that everyone has a role in improving the world. As Carmen says:

“It’s what brings the community together. Everybody’s doing their part.”

Together, individuals can create a formidable force for change.

**Conclusion**
Their lives exemplify the profound power of volunteerism and the incredible impact one person can have on countless others. Their story reminds us that service isn’t always about grand gestures but often the simple, everyday acts of kindness that can change lives. Whether through volunteering or making donations, their message is clear: Help others in any way you can. Each small effort contributes to building a better world.

Embarking on a journey in medicine isn’t simply about textbooks or hours spent in labs. It’s about passion, perseverance, and personal growth, shaped by the experiences that define one’s life. This is the story of Emily Mathijs, a medical student at the Michigan State University College of Osteopathic Medicine (MSUCOM), whose path to medicine is inspiring and deeply rooted in her desire to give back to her community.

**From Ukraine to a New Beginning**

Emily’s journey began long before she entered a medical school classroom. Born in Ukraine, she and her family immigrated to the United States for a better life. Motivated by the hope of brighter opportunities for their children, Emily’s parents arrived with dreams of a fresh start. The support they received from generous volunteer organizations played a crucial role in their transition to their new home. This early exposure to the power of community service had a lasting impact on Emily.

Since age 10, Emily has been actively involved in volunteer work alongside her mother. Their efforts began with nursing homes and hospitals, where Emily developed a passion for helping others. She said, “My journey started when my parents came from Ukraine. They came here because they wanted a better life for me and my brother.”

**Early Inspirations and the Call to Medicine**

As she grew older, Emily’s desire to make a tangible difference in people’s lives evolved into a calling to medicine. Her volunteer experiences in hospitals allowed her to immerse herself in the healthcare world, where she found her true purpose. Inspiration also came from within her family—her brother, a pioneer in their family’s medical journey, became the first doctor in their household. Emily’s admiration for her brother’s accomplishments only fueled her medical career ambition.

**Overcoming Barriers and Embracing Opportunities**

Emily’s story is not only one of ambition but also of overcoming significant historical barriers. As a member of a Jewish family, she was deeply aware of the struggles her ancestors faced in Ukraine, where Jews were once barred from entering medical school. The opportunity to study medicine in the United States filled Emily with immense gratitude and reinforced her sense of purpose. She reflects, “Coming from Ukraine, my parents are Jewish, and Jews were not allowed to go into medical school at that time.”

**Choosing Osteopathic Medicine**

In her search for a medical path aligned with her values, Emily found osteopathic medicine to be the perfect fit. The holistic approach to healthcare resonated deeply with her, focusing on treating the whole person rather than just addressing symptoms. Emily’s decision to pursue osteopathic medicine at MSUCOM became a turning point in her educational journey. One of her first experiences, working with Detroit Street Care, provided invaluable exposure to the diverse and vulnerable populations needing compassionate care.

**Real-World Challenges and Personal Triumphs**

Emily’s passion for medicine was tested during her internal medicine rotations. There, she encountered a 17-year-old Hispanic immigrant from Venezuela suffering from a severe leg infection. Language barriers complicated his access to medical care. Still, Emily’s ability to communicate in Spanish became a crucial bridge, enabling her to advocate for him and ensure he received the necessary treatment.

Her efforts paid off when, months later, the patient sent her pictures of his healed leg, a testament to her commitment and the impact of compassionate care. Emily says, “Just that little extra touch can sometimes honestly change a patient’s life.”

**Looking Ahead: The Future in Orthopedic Surgery**

With her medical education underway, Emily is focused on her dream of specializing in orthopedic surgery. As she moves through the application process, she acknowledges the invaluable support she has received from the Michigan Osteopathic College Foundation (MOCF) scholarship. The scholarship has made her dream of becoming a doctor more attainable and affirmed her commitment to giving back to others.

**Giving Back in Gratitude**

For Emily, her journey is not solely about personal achievements. As a wife and mother, she understands the broader impact of the support she’s received. Emily looks forward to paying it forward and helping others achieve their dreams just as she has been helped. “I’m truly grateful for what the scholarship has done for me and look forward to paying it forward to others when I have the means.”

**Conclusion**

Emily Mathijs’ story powerfully reminds us that the path to medicine is more than just an academic pursuit. It is a journey driven by empathy, resilience, and an unwavering commitment to serving others. Emily’s dedication to overcoming obstacles and advocating for patients serves as a beacon of inspiration for future medical professionals. Through her story, we are reminded that medicine is not merely a career but a vocation that can transform lives and uplift entire communities.

Bringing a newborn into the world is a joyful and life-changing experience. However, new parents often face various health screenings and check-ups, many of which can feel overwhelming. Among these, the newborn hearing screening is one of the most important. Early identification of hearing issues is crucial for a child’s development, and the **1-3-6 EDHI (Early Hearing Detection and Intervention)** collaborative goal ensures hearing loss is detected and addressed as quickly as possible. In this blog post, UnoDeuce Multimedia explores the significance of the **1-3-6 framework**, its importance, and how it can impact both parents and their newborns.

### What is the 1-3-6 EDHI Framework?

The **1-3-6 framework** is a nationwide initiative to ensure early detection and intervention for hearing loss in newborns. It provides a structured timeline to guarantee that children with hearing impairments receive the necessary care at the right time. Here’s what the 1-3-6 goal entails:

– **1 Month**: Every newborn should undergo a hearing screening within the first month of life.
– **3 Months**: If hearing loss is indicated, it should be diagnosed by the age of three months.
– **6 Months**: Early intervention services should begin in six months if hearing loss is confirmed.

This collaborative initiative involves healthcare providers, Early Hearing Detection and Intervention (EDHI) programs, and early intervention services to ensure that newborns with hearing loss are supported promptly.

### Why Early Detection is Vital

The first month of life is critical for a child’s development, and newborn hearing screenings are the first step in detecting potential hearing issues. Identifying hearing loss early helps to avoid delays in communication, cognitive development, and overall growth. Early screening leads to diagnostic tests and referrals, ensuring your child receives the necessary support without delay.

The 1-3-6 framework emphasizes that early intervention is essential for a child’s development. If hearing loss is diagnosed by three months, and intervention begins by six months, the child has a much better chance of achieving key developmental milestones such as:

– **Communication**: Early intervention supports developing verbal and non-verbal communication skills.
Early Literacy: Children with early hearing issues can still develop strong literacy skills with proper support.
– **Language Acquisition**: Early intervention helps children acquire language skills vital for social and cognitive growth.

An early start ensures the child can keep pace with their peers, bridging any potential gaps caused by hearing challenges.

### Real-Life Impact: A Parent’s Perspective

For many parents, the newborn hearing screening can come as a surprise. One parent shared their experience, saying, *“I didn’t even know the newborn hearing screen existed until he was born. They had done the test thrice, and they said he didn’t pass each time. But they didn’t emphasize how urgent it was.”*

This situation is not uncommon. While navigating the responsibilities of newborn care, many parents may not fully understand the urgency of follow-up screenings. Delays in follow-up testing can affect a child’s development, as timely intervention is critical in supporting language and communication skills. In this case, the family followed up when their child was eight weeks old, but early intervention could have mitigated the impact on developmental milestones.

### The Role of Healthcare Providers

Healthcare providers play a vital role in guiding parents through the 1-3-6 process. They must communicate clearly about the newborn hearing screening results and ensure that parents understand the urgency of any follow-up testing. Parents must leave the doctor’s office clearly, understanding why timely action is essential. Phrases like “Don’t worry, but don’t wait” are much more helpful than reassuring parents that everything is fine.

Providers should also help parents navigate the next steps by connecting them with resources such as audiologists, speech-language pathologists, and early intervention services. These professionals can provide a structured plan to address the child’s needs.

### Navigating Early Intervention

The early intervention process can seem daunting once a hearing loss diagnosis is confirmed. However, the 1-3-6 framework ensures that families are not alone in this process. A network of specialists and support systems is available to help guide parents through the following steps. Early intervention services include therapies and communication support, which help children develop the skills they need to succeed.

### Key Takeaways for Parents

– **No Panic, Prompt Action**: Understand the urgency of follow-ups, but don’t panic. Be proactive about scheduling your child’s appointments.
– **Utilize Resources**: Engage with the network of specialists available through early intervention programs to ensure the best support for your child.
Stay Informed: Communicate openly with healthcare providers, and don’t hesitate to ask questions about the next steps in the process.

Parents can take the necessary steps to support their child’s development by staying informed and utilizing the right resources. The 1-3-6 framework provides a clear path forward, ensuring hearing loss is detected and addressed early, helping children thrive despite potential challenges.

### Conclusion

The 1-3-6 EDHI collaborative goal offers an essential framework for ensuring early identification and intervention for hearing loss in newborns. Understanding this framework empowers parents to take timely action, connect with healthcare professionals, and utilize the available resources. Early detection and intervention can have a lasting positive impact on a child’s communication, literacy, and overall development. By following the 1-3-6 guidelines, parents can help ensure their child is on the best possible path to a bright future.