We are pleased to announce
Michelle
as the Mental Health Awareness of Michiana (MHAM)
Volunteer Highlight for July 2026!
MHAM’s volunteer highlight for July – Michelle – is being honored for her contributions as a Social Work Intern.
Michelle is a masters in social work student at Goshen College. Michelle completed her first year practicum with MHAM Spring- Summer, 2026. She has one son, and currently works as a Family Support Supervisor at Family & Children’s Center Healthy Families program.
“I chose to do my placement at MHAM because I believe in their mission and dedication to eliminate the stigma of mental health in our communities. From the symposiums, outreach, training, peers support, and pro bono therapy, I was encouraged and motivated to work alongside the team.”
Michelle’s field placement gave her an opportunity to do outreach and support for St. Joseph County (SJC) residents facing eviction in the SJC Small Claims Court. This opportunity to plug in MHAM Community Outreach originated with a request from volunteer lawyers with the Notre Dame Eviction Clinic; they understood that community members facing eviction needed social support and resources in addition to legal support.
“I was given the opportunity to be the first MSW intern to be placed as a support in the St. Joseph County eviction court. I was able to support tenants with resources as they navigate their housing struggles and other challenges they may be experiencing.
For me, the most meaningful experience was being able to learn more about the housing crisis that exists not only in South Bend, but nationally. I met navigators that volunteered their time to be a kind and empathetic hand when some may feel their world is closing in around them; I received guidance and insightful conversation from attorneys that dedicate their time to assisting people going through the process. My experience, overall, was beyond what I expected, and I am honored to have had the opportunity.”
MHAM Executive Director on Michelle’s work for MHAM:
“The timing of the request for outreach assistance from the volunteer eviction lawyers and Michelle’s request to do her social work placement with MHAM were perfectly timed,” says Lisa Kelly, MHAM Executive Director. “This was an amazing opportunity for Michelle, as a first year social work intern, to gain direct experience with community members facing the crisis of eviction while also gaining a macro perspective on the affordable housing problems in St. Joseph County. MHAM intends to continue to support community members dealing with eviction in St. Joseph County.”
Eviction Court volunteer Jane on Michelle’s contributions:
“Michelle and I met when she interned at the Eviction Court in St. Joe County. What a resourceful social worker with a warm welcoming presence she was to clients appearing in court at a low time in their lives. She is SO worthy of being recognized!”
It is an honor to train master’s in social work and counseling interns at MHAM. Along with our maternal mental health fellowship, we are increasing access to care for marginalized individuals and increasing access to quality mental health workforce training.
To learn more about doing a masters level counseling or social work internship at MHAM, contact us at info@mhamichiana.org.
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To learn more about the Pro Bono Counseling Project, click HERE!
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