Lee Gardner III works as a Wraparound Facilitator at On Point in Allegan.  Lee grew up in an area of low income poverty, wanting the best results for himself.  Lee tells his story of achieving goals, actualizing dreams, and aspiring to be a better human being.  Lee creates for himself a unique life blueprint to learn and grow.  He shares his lessons learned overcoming challenging circumstances to impact and inspire others.

Recorded at the 2025 Winter CMHA Conference

Lee Gardner III, February 6, 2025

Bethany Boik, one of the keynote speakers at the 2025 CHMA Annual Winter Conference held in Kalamazoo, MI, is a mental health advocate, an artist and author of the book, Diary of a Schizophrenic.  Bethany has a diagnosis of a form of schizophrenia called schizoaffective disorder.  Bethany is the hero of her own story, which she shares with us.


Bethany Boik, February 17, 2025

Chris Nikic and his father, Nik were keynote speakers at the 2025 Annual Winter CMHA Conference held in Kalamazoo, MI.  Chris is the first person with Down syndrome to do a 140.6 Ironman and the first to receive the Abbott Six Star Medal, honoring runners who complete the original six Major Marathons.  Chris shares that his "1% better" mantra is a lifetime habit that inspires, empowers and encourages himself and all those brought to him as he continues to follow his dreams.  

Chris and Nik Nikic, February 19, 2025

Karen Dillon works as the Operations Manager for the self-directed fiscal management program, Personal Accounting Services, Inc. (PAS),  located in Taylor, Michigan.  PAS is a part of the AssuranceSD family.  Karen has over twenty five years of experience with fiscal management which continues to bring her the opportunity to witness many touching moments of joy as her work uplifts and enriches the lives of those she serves.  Karen’s enthusiasm for helping others  is captivating.

Recorded at the 2025 Summer CMHA Conference


Karen Dillon, June 10, 2025

Editor, Community Mental Health Association of Michigan (CMHA) Connections

Chris and Nik Nikic, February 19, 2025

Integrity in Action, LLC

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