The 2023 MDHHS Opioid Annual Report highlights the resilience of communities facing health disparities, which increases the vulnerability to the opioid crisis. In Genesee County, drug-induced deaths have increased significantly since 2000, with the Black community particularly impacted. Ensuring equitable access to recovery services supports these communities in their ongoing journey toward wellness.
Serenity House Communities (SHC), a nonprofit recovery organization in Flint, is dedicated to expanding its recovery methods through its project, Holistic Healing for All.
Founded in 2015, Serenity House Communities offers peer support services for residents and their families dealing with the negative impact of addiction, codependency, and trauma.
SHC stands out among other service providers through its delivery of alternative recovery methods. Its holistic medicine approaches range from recovery reiki, yoga, guided meditation, movement, and acupuncture.
SHC program coordinator Clarissa Stout says alternative recovery services are key for individualized care.
“Alternative recovery services support all of the recovery pathways—not just abstinence-based programs,” Stout said. “Everyone is different, and these methods allow people to find what works for them.”
With a focus on equitable healthcare, funding from the Tuuri Health Fund supported the organization in efforts to provide these services to a more diverse participant population. Staff engaged in training, focus groups, healing circles, and more to promote cultural competency awareness.
SHC is also addressing transportation challenges for those struggling to reach the center. Through its Rides for Recovery program, SHC offers free transportation to ensure individuals can attend recovery-related events, meetings, and activities.
“Diversity and culture are a beautiful thing. The more we know, the more we can help service people in a more diverse community,” Stout said. “With the additional education we received, Serenity House could let our walls down.”
SHC is expanding its reach through health equity initiatives and community outreach. The group recently opened a new brick-and-mortar location in Lapeer to serve more residents in Flint and beyond.
“We’re putting the boots on the ground and moving outward,” Stout said. “We’re giving a home to people who may not have found their place. That’s what we’re all searching for.”
A Place of Belonging
Serenity House Communities’ mission hits close to home for members like program coordinator Clarissa Stout.
Stout first heard about SHC in 2023 during her personal recovery journey. As someone passionate about holistic and naturopathic medicine, she paid SHC communities a visit. Attending a Sober Social event turned into volunteering, and later evolved into a position with the organization.
Stout reflects on her journey, which has resulted in the discovery of self-healing, self-love, and self-worth, and now helps others do the same at SHC.
“Having people come in and just find a place where they belong to get the healing that they need is really my favorite part of it all,” Stout said. “I also love watching people grow—which is the most rewarding part of my job.”
