The Ypsilanti-based SOS Community Services has worked diligently to help those facing homelessness with all available resources. Yet, completely solving the homeless epidemic in Washtenaw County remains a lofty goal. Decky Alexander discussed SOS's latest work with its Executive Director, Rhonda Weathers.

For many years, the Shelter Association of Washtenaw County has provided food, shelter and hope for those who need it. And yet in recent months, the number of resources the association provides our community has lessened. Decky Alexander discussed this new reality with the association's chief development officer, Versell Smith Jr.

SafeHouse Center, based out of Ann Arbor, has served as a haven for those who have experienced domestic abuse and sexual violence. Christine Watson has served as the center's executive director since 2022. She joined Decky Alexander to discuss what SafeHouse has achieved during her time and what the future may hold.

"Students have a right to learn—no matter what." That is the motto of the Ypsilanti-based Student Advocacy Center of Michigan. The center stands up for K-12 students who deal with suspensions, face racial barriers, and get denied access to special education. Decky Alexander shared more about the center's ongoing work with its Co-Executive Director, Anell Eccleston.

When a child is hospitalized, the strain on the family can be overwhelming. It can be even more overwhelming when these families are struggling financially. Ronald McDonald House Charities (RMHC) of Ann Arbor provides these families with temporary food and housing while their children receive medical treatment. RMHC's Director of Development, Dr. Douglas F. Manigault III, joined Decky Alexander to talk more about the house's continuing work for the community.

Ann Arbor Pride, where the LGBTQ community gathers in Ann Arbor to celebrate its identity and unity, is coming this August. And it's all made possible by the Jim Toy Community Center, led by its executive director, Joe Halsch. Halsch joined Decky Alexander to talk about the center's ongoing mission and what to expect for this year's Pride festivities.

When we think about a just society, we often think about laws, courts, and consequences. But what if we look at it through a humanist lens? True justice isn't about punishment. It's about recognizing the inherent dignity and infinite potential of every single human being. And nowhere is that test more critical than in how we treat our youth. Under the leadership of its Executive Director, Jason Smith, the Michigan Center for Youth Justice has championed tectonic shifts that are reshaping youth justice to build a stronger and more compassionate future for generations to come. Smith talked about the center's continuing mission of developing a truly fair justice system with Decky Alexander.

Military veterans and their families can face many difficulties after serving our country. Anything from housing to proper physical and mental health care can sometimes be out of reach. Fisher House Michigan in Ann Arbor is a resource for these veterans. Decky Alexander talked about Fisher House's work with its executive director, Kate Melcher.

Inspired by her own experience as a caregiver for a loved one living with a serious mental health condition, Judy Gardner is a passionate advocate for mental health awareness, inclusion, and access to care. She has continued that passion as Executive Director of the Washtenaw County chapter of the National Alliance on Mental Illness. Gardner talked about the organization's work in promoting men's mental health with Decky Alexander.

What does it take to heal a community impacted by gun violence? For some local advocates, it starts with an industrial chop saw in a church parking lot, turning dismantled firearms into pieces of art. For others, it's launching a lock-it-up campaign with community centers or pediatric offices that give away free lockboxes to anyone. These grassroots efforts are just part of the story for Physicians for the Prevention of Gun Violence (PPGV), founded by local doctors who have witnessed the physical and psychological toll of firearm trauma firsthand. Washtenaw United's new host, Decky Alexander, talked all about PPGV's ongoing work with the organization's president, Dr. Mike Otto.

Meet the new host of "Washtenaw United"! Decky Alexander will step in to explore issues of equity and opportunity in our community as David Fair steps into retirement. Decky's presence in the community has been felt in a number of sectors. You may know her as the Director of the Office of Engage@EMU. She is also a professor of Applied Drama and Theater. Her commitment to community service and engagement will serve her well in her role as host of Washtenaw United. She sat down for a conversation with David as she prepares to begin, and he brings his hosting duties to an end.

There are a good number of families in Michigan and here in Washtenaw County that have children and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many of them don't go as far in life because there isn't enough opportunity available. Kerry Kafafian is among those parents. That's why, back in 2005, she began working on creating and developing a community for her son. 21 years later, the Many Hands Lifesharing Community is coming to fruition. Kerry joined WEMU's David Fair to tell her story on this week's "Washtenaw United."