The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan

The Women's Center of Southeast Michigan is a beacon of hope and support for countless individuals in the community. Thanks to the generosity of donors and sponsors, the center has made a significant impact through its comprehensive range of services.
The center has provided over 11,000 hours of individual personal counseling through its Soundings, Jumpstart, and Room To Talk programs. These sessions offer crucial support for those navigating personal challenges and seeking emotional well-being.
Over 70 sessions of free divorce education and support helps women cope with the loss of long-term relationships. This program is invaluable for those in need of guidance and emotional support during such a difficult transition.
The center has conducted 155 sessions of affordable career and financial coaching, empowering individuals and families to regain stability and move forward with confidence. These sessions are essential for those looking to rebuild their lives and achieve financial independence.
The 51 MomShare support group sessions provided at no charge are a lifeline for new moms. These groups help build parenting skills and reduce social isolation, fostering a supportive community for mothers.
The front desk staff has responded to over 1,200 calls, answering questions and connecting people with the resources they need. This service ensures that individuals receive timely and accurate information, further enhancing the center's support network.
Overall, The Women's Center of Southeast Michigan stands out for its dedication to improving the lives of women and families in the community. Its wide array of programs and services, backed by the generosity of donors and sponsors, makes it an indispensable resource for those in need.

The Women's Center has helped shape and change my life for the positive in so many ways.

I love being able to be part of this organization. The Women's center provides many amazing resources, especially the sliding scale therapy program!

I have benefited immensely from The Women’s Center. I was treated with dignity, respect, and was supported on my healing journey in a way that has been life changing. My therapist was an intern and I felt the culture of the center coming through in her work—a culture of viewing me as a person who has survived hard things instead of a diagnosis. Being at the center feels like being in community and I feel that I have gained skills for creating community for myself through my experiences there. I see the ways that they serve through a lens of humility, care and service. I am very grateful for my experiences with this exceptional organization and the ways that the trajectory of my life has changed as a result. Thank you!!

The Women's Center opened up their facility to provide MomShare support group when it was discontinued. They have continued to support this free support group which has literally saved lives. A MomShare participant from 7 years ago reached out to me to thank me for giving her a community with MomShare, a place to share her story and feel supported. It was this village that kept depression from taking her life by suicide. She now has 2 children and a stable life thanks to The Women's Center.

As a therapist who works in the center on a daily basis, I get to regularly see the interactions staff members have with clients. The staff members are consistently compassionate, professional, and fully engaged in an effort to assist clients as they work towards transforming the quality of their (own) lives.

The Women's Center has supported many initiatives to build connection and community in addition to their fundamental mental health work. They offer services regardless of social situation to meet the need. I have the utmost respect for all that they are doing.

The Women's Center has held a special place in my heart for the last 13 years when I began as a student intern. During this year long program, I learned what it meant to be fully trusted both as an individual and also as a new therapist while also learning how to create sacred spaces for clients to be safe, seen and supported. It was through these experiences that I grew alongside my diverse composition of clients including adolescents, parents, divorcees and retirees. The Women's Center allowed me space to find my voice, particularly related to decisions that impact our clients and despite my voice not representing the majority it was respectfully heard and considered. This level of respect I was able to later use in my professional life when engaging in productive and respectful discussions. I loved The Women's Center so much that I later served on the board, including serving as board chair during some significant changes during COVID. Having now been involved for several years at other intern programs, I am absolutely confident that the therapeutic training that takes place at The Women's Center is second to none. I am absolutely thankful to have had the opportunity to train at this organization!

I had no idea what to expect when I started volunteering at the Women's Center. I have never felt so welcomed, included and brought into such a genuine community with such warmth and honesty. The people who volunteer here in every capacity dedicate so much time and energy into the work that they do and the clients they serve. The Women's Center accepts everyone for all of their differences and sees every individual as a unique person with unique needs. This community has inspired me greatly and has motivated me to continue learning about current crisis intervention, divorce support, individual counseling, and how to be an advocate in the community.

The Women’s center is a truly compassionate organization filled with people who genuinely care about the people of the community and the clients they serve. They go above and beyond to help connect individuals with resources and provide them with the assistance that they need.

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is a valuable community resource and a much needed lifeline for persons seeking support.

Everyone at the Women's Center are very professional and genuinely wants to help. I am honored to be a part of their outstanding kind team. They treat everyone equal regardless of their background or their personal preferences.

The kind, compassionate, and professional support that The Women's Center provides to people experiencing challenges, transitions or trauma is life-transforming! Over the past few years, the need for mental health counseling and supportive services has dramatically increased. While many people are strong and resilient, it can be just one more thing that tips the scale and drives a person to walk in and ask for help. And, when a person walks in, they are connected to a counselor or helped to navigate to the appropriate supportive services.

I donate to The Women's Center because no one is turned away due to inability to pay! I also know that when women are supported and provided with tools to assert their strengths, families and communities thrive!

It's been comforting to see the impact that The Women's Center has had on the lives of my family members and friends who've needed help.

The Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan is a fantastic resource for individuals in the area. The employees are approachable, kind, and informative. They truly prioritize mental health and do whatever they can for those reaching out for information.

I love the variety of services and groups The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan provides to those in our area. As a fellow mental health professional, there have been numerous times I have referred someone to their center for services or even some of my own clients to participate in groups there. I appreciate all the work they do for the community.

I had a fantastic experience this summer working as a development intern for the Women's Center. The work they do is so important, empowering individuals to face mental health challenges and transforming lives every day. They are dedicated to meeting people where they are and making support services like therapy and career coaching accessible to underserved populations. I have loved getting to work with and learn from all of the staff and can't thank them enough for being so generous with their support, time, and knowledge. The Women's Center is a wonderful organization that I am so proud to have worked with.

I am happy to donate to this Great Organization! Its purpose is giving the help and strength that is needed and necessary for many people who can’t do it alone ❤️ Hopefully there can be more of these places to go in more communities!! I’m beyond grateful I can contribute to this Amazing Organization!

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is an incredible organization! The center and its staff are committed to helping women across the community in every way possible, and maintain a warm and supportive environment while doing so. Southeastern Michigan is lucky to have the women's center and the incredible humans who keep it running!

I've been volunteering with technical support since May 2022 and have greatly enjoyed the experience. The staff are passionate and hardworking towards an important mission - I'm glad to know that such an organization exists in my community!

Time spent volunteering at The Women's Center was truly healing... I am grateful to be a part of their wonderful community.

I am a volunteer working with The Women's Center and I have had an incredible experience so far! The people are very kind and grateful for all that volunteers do. I have also been able to learn so much here. This is a wonderful place and resource for the people of Michigan and I am proud to volunteer here!

My name is Paul Sciole and I have been working as a therapist with The Women's Center of Southeastern MI. My experience with the agency has been wonderful. Everyone here is extremely supportive, kind, and understanding. It is crystal clear that they are truly interested in me as not only a part of the team, but as a unique human being with individual goals and needs. Thanks so much for being such a positive part of this phase of my life journey!

For my entrepreneurship class this semester, the focus was to create a product in the field of women's reproductive and maternal health. As a young woman, I haven't necessarily experienced everything a woman and her body can do. Due to my connection to the Women's Center through the Panhellenic Association, I was able to interview and work with Katie Kidle to learn more about the postpartum process. She connected me with her new mom group of over 200 women, and I was able to collect feedback and testimonials to include in a postpartum guided journal, the product my group and I ended up producing for our class. Based off of the amount of responses and sincerity from the women who gave me feedback about our ideas, it is clear that the connections the Women's Center makes with their clients are genuine.
One of the biggest problems we identified in our class when it came to women's maternal health was the lack of emotional support. I have seen how to Women's Center has created a safe space and a community of women who are ready and willing to be that support system a new mother needs. Whether that be financial help, therapy, job coaching, or simply a no judgement zone, the Women's Center provides a warm and comforting atmosphere that makes one feel right at home.

Over the years I have been involved with many wonderful organizations. But my experience as a volunteer at The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan commands my highest praise. This an organization that lives its philosophy every day and in every way. Clients receive respect and compassion at every turn and have several different programs within the Center from which they can receive support and gain knowledge. I began to volunteer at the center to provide supervision for intern therapists, thinking this would be a nice opportunity to be in a teaching environment. In the short time I've been here I'm sure I've learned more than anyone - about quality care within a quality program delivered by quality people.

The Women's Center does so much to help our community. I've had multiple people close to me who have sought support at the Women's Center, and each time they've received the help they need regardless of financial standing. This organization is vital to the well-being of our community and I encourage everyone to support them.

As a previous social work intern and now staff member and therapist, I’m deeply grateful for the education, community, and learning opportunities The Women’s Center has given me. I requested to have my internship here because of their reputation among students for providing support and training that goes above and beyond other internship sites. Once I was part of the team and had the opportunity to connect with community members coming in for services, I was able to see just how important the Center is to so many women, myself included. It’s been an amazing experience to wake up and be excited about my work, and I’m forever grateful to The Women’s Center for their continued support and genuine concern for their team members and the community members we serve.

I am an intern at The Women's Center and can't express how thankful I am to have had the opportunity to work here! I've had every opportunity to learn and grow as a new therapist in more ways than I could imagine. I remember being nervous to start an internship and The Women's Center quickly calmed those nerves with welcoming me with open arms and endless care and support. I am proud to work as an intern here and be a part of this team!

I’ve been a volunteer at TWC for over 13 yrs and have known many different therapists, both interns and licensed counselors. I can say without a doubt they all care deeply about their clients and have made a difference in their lives. I have seen clients come in for a session clearly unhappy and when they leave they are smiling. In addition to personal counseling TWC holds workshops on legal and financial issues of divorce, and has on-going divorce support groups. They provide a wide variety of additional services including referrals to callers who need specialized services and don’t know where to turn.

My experience with The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan has been a blessing. As an employee i have been given so much support and opportunity and i feel quite valued.
I feel very blessed to be in an environments that nurtures my development. Though the Women's Center, i am on a career path that i enjoy and am passionate about.
Thanks to all who make this possible!

I volunteer at The Women’s Center because of what they do and who they are. They provide much needed services that allow women to heal and feel supported in a safe environment. I love the clients we serve and I love the integrity and care of the staff that work and volunteer here.

I am an intern at the Women's Center and I can't express how grateful I am to have had my initial experience as a counselor here. In addition to offering necessary and valuable community support through Mom Share, Going Solo, Room to Talk, Soundings, Jumpstart, and career coaching, the Women's Center has a superb internship program for new counselors. I have learned so much through my work with our clients, the other intern-counselors, and all of the Women’s Center staff, including supervisors. The supervision and clinical education programs are incredible, and I am getting the kind of support that makes many of my colleagues at other organizations jealous. The Women’s Center lives its values and mission at every level of the organization.

I am so grateful for this organization in our community. The staff are fantastic. They go above and beyond. They treat everyone as a whole and valued person ❤️!

Really terrible service. Staff are not friendly and treat you in a condescending way. I would suggest all funders really look into where your money is going.

I was so happy to find this organization. I went through a really rough time in my life. This organization and the amazing people that run it helped so much. I highly recommend checking them out.

I have been an intern at The Women's Center since September of 2020. During these 5 months, I have learned skills that will last me a lifetime, established wonderful connections with therapists and clients, and have been able to truly understand and develop my passion for therapy. I am grateful for this experience.

I was referred to the Womens' Center from another agency during a crisis in my life. The first person that greeted me was warm and welcoming at a time when I really needed help and support for myself and my son. The referral I received there was a good one for him and I became aware of classes for my next life stage. Being a member of the Going Solo group has been invaluable to me. The meetings are relevant, well directed, empathetic and even fun! What a wonderful group of staff and volunteers I've met over the last few years. I choose to continue to particpate for my own growth in this new stage of my life since I know I have a lot to learn so I don't make the same mistakes. Many others choose to attend other classes that help with the financial and legal aspects of the process of divorce or simply move on. I did the series of classes twice and found it useful both times. Life is hard but it sure makes it better and even easier with support and caring guidance and acceptance. There are other resources at the Center which I plan to participate in as I move along in my healing journey. Do not hesitate to check it out! You might be surprised at what's offered and how many great women you will meet through participation in programs and / or counseling. The Women's Center is a gem here in Ann Arbor and has been my lifeline.

Volunteering with The Women's Center has been a healing and uplifting experience. The center feels like a home. The team are so well-informed and passionate about their mission. It's wonderful to have a space where I feel safe and valued and important, and to know that I'm helping other people make similar connections.

I started as an intern therapist at the Women's Center in January 2020 and found my passion. I was passionate about interning there because I would be able to make an impact in multiple ways. I have always felt supported by the staff at the center and have built a strong professional community. The work the center does is so vital for the community by providing necessary mental health services to those who are underinsured and uninsured. The center also provides critical professional development opportunities for interns, helping them grow into professional therapists and prepares them to be effective in their work. I have found a home at the Women's Center and will always be a part of this amazing community.

I've been an intern psychotherapist for about 5 months now and my experience has been so much more valuable than I could have ever imagined. It feels amazing to be apart of an organization that always makes me feel seen, heard and valued as a person. I especially appreciate the continued DEI efforts of leadership at the center.

I have been a volunteer at the Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan for a few months now. In that time, I can already see the significant impact the Center has on the community. I’m very proud to be a volunteer at this great organization.

Working with the Women's Center of SEMI has been a healing experience. It's a place where I feel heard, valued, and nurtured. It's safe space to collaborate and think outside the box.

The Women's Center of SE MI has supported women (and men) for the past 20 years when it was needed most, during the most challenging times. I have volunteered my time and services, and observed the passion of others that work there and contribute on a daily basis. Being able to be there for others so that we can all become our best self. That is the business they are in. Please consider giving your time or other resources to this important work.

The Women's Center is an organization filled with talented, passionate women who work diligently and endlessly to support the community. It has been a pleasure to volunteer with these incredible women and to take part in their profound community impact!

I started going to the The Women's Center after learning about their MomShare group! It was the best decision I could have made. The saturday therapist for MomShare, Lisa, was super comforting and allowed everyone to speak their minds and really feel like we were being paid attention to. It has been an extremely supportive environment and as a new mom that is definitely something I valued.

I started going to MomShare at The Women's Center as soon as I learned about it, early on in my pregnancy. I really value the support, community and validation of my experience that I receive there. As someone with no close female relatives or friends in a similar state of life, it really means a lot to me to be able to come spend time with other moms and hear from other people who are going through or have gone through the same things I am. I don't feel alone anymore. I know MomShare is going to continue to make a positive difference for me as I finish my pregnancy and adjust to life as mother of a newborn and beyond.

A wonderful place to meet other women and to get support! I started attending MomShare after my second baby and it was such a blessing. I'd strongly encourage other moms to attend to help connect with others and support each other during the transition of motherhood.

The people who work at the Women’s Center are some of the kindest people I’ve met. I’ve attended the MomShare meet up for about the past 7 months and I can confidently say it made a huge impact on my life as a new mom. So grateful this center exists.

I was really struggling with being a new mom at 5 weeks postpartum, and my therapist recommended me to Momshare. It was exactly what I needed at that time. I met other moms who were either going through the exact thing as me or had already gone past it. It was extremely supportive and all that attended were in the same boat and felt the same feelings. It's hard to be a new mom with little to no family support around. Momshare ladies became my tribe of strong women and I learned that we are all great mothers. I owe Momshare and the women who attend my life. They saved me and I look forwards to giving back.

The Women’s Center’s moms group has been a great support to me as a new mom. Each session is filled with helpful tips from other moms and relatable stories of challenges and successes. I would highly recommend this group to any mom in the area looking to meet other moms.

Participating at MomShare at the Women’s Center of Southeastern Michigan helped me find support and community during my struggle with postpartum depression and anxiety. The staff were incredible and I will always be grateful for them!

I honestly don’t know what I would have done with out The Women’s Center of SE Michigan. I depended on the MomShare group after the birth of my daughter. It was the first place I found that was a safe space to share life with other women. The entire center was welcoming and staff were always kind and loving.

I recently volunteered at the Women’s Center. It was a great experience and a pleasure to have met so many warm, talented professionals who care about their community and value inclusion.

In my professional role, our company entered into a partnership approximately two years ago to support The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. I thoroughly researched several non-profits within our community. Then, I spent time speaking one-on-one with the dedicated and knowledgeable staff to learn more about this special nonprofit. I was profoundly impressed with the high quality range of services provided to our community by credentialed staff. The volume of women, children and families that have positively benefited from the wide-ranging services and compassionate support that The Women's Center of SE Michigan provide is countless. I was equally impressed with their outstanding internship program for college interns. I am so proud that my company is affiliated with this remarkable organization that is changing lives for the better, one individual at a time. In addition, it has been very rewarding that our team members have become involved with the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan, whether it has been through fundraising events and/or by collecting items to donate to clients. We truly appreciate The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan and all of the hard work they perform to enrich the lives of our neighbors! Thank you!

The Women's Center of SE Michigan is a safe and amazing place for women to go to get help. The women that work and volunteer here are truly genuine and care about everyone who needs their services. This is a must have non-profit in our community. Thye make a difference everyday! I love volunteering and helping in every way.

I have been volunteering as the resident web designer/developer at The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan since early 2019, and it has been SUCH a rewarding, enjoyable, and fun experience. It feels so good donating my time, talents, and energy to an organization that I know is making such a difference in the lives of women and their families in our community. Each and every time I come into the Women's Center to volunteer, I am met with kindness, gratitude, appreciation, and support. I'm incredibly thankful that we have such an amazing resource in The Women's Center in our community!

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is an amazing group of people dedicated to uplifting their community. As an undergraduate student involved with the University of Michigan's HeForShe Chapter, we have been fortunate to work with the Women's Center for several years now. The staff is incredibly welcoming in allowing our members to become actively involved, and we are currently planning to host a Donation Drive for paper products and other in-need items for the Center. I am very much grateful for the work they do in providing a safe, kind environment for those seeking assistance. Their proximity to the University of Michigan campus allows the Center to be an ideal and well-needed space for healing and growth for both struggling students and community members. Thank you Women's Center!

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is absolutely incredible! The University of Michigan's Alpha Chi Omega Sorority has been paired with them for countless years and gotten the chance to see them grow as an organization. The support they provide for women, in terms of both physical items such as winter coats and feminine products to the mental guidance through their different therapy sessions, clearly makes a big difference on every single person that walks through their door. We look forward to continuing our work with this amazing nonprofit throughout 2020 and beyond!

I was a clinical intern at The Women’s Center for a year during my MSW graduate program at the University of Michigan. Over the course of my year with the agency, I could not have felt more welcomed, supported and encouraged by the other interns training alongside me, the supervisors who dedicate their time voluntarily to our learning, and the staff who work tirelessly to provide a safe space for individuals from all walks of life in the Ann Arbor and surrounding community. As an agency, The Women’s Center operates on a model that enables local therapists and interns to provide accessible and quality mental health support to those in need. As a newly graduated social worker now working in the field, I easily identify The Women’s Center as one of the few go-to organizations that provide sliding scale costs in the community, for a wide range of services including individual therapy, support groups, group therapy, financial education, and job coaching just to name a few. Not only does this agency support clients and the community in individualized and unique ways, but the staff and volunteers at The Women’s Center are truly some of the most compassionate and dedicated colleagues I have had the honor of working with. I always recommend this agency to folks looking for referrals. This organization has truly impacted my life professionally in regards to the education and training I received. It has also touched my life personally in regards to memorable takeaways from reflective supervision such as recognizing my own story, what I bring into a space, and how to show up not only for clients but also for myself. I thus highly recommend The Women’s Center and I hope that they will continue to expand so as to provide accessible services to more and more members of our community.

The Women's center is an amazing and much needed resource in our community. They help to fill a large gap in resources and support services for the underserved communities, and they do it in a welcoming and inclusive way. I have the most direct experience with their work supporting new mothers by hosting a free, no questions as Mom Share group. They have partnered with other organizations, including the University of Michigan hospital to provide a comfortable and welcoming space to host weekly support groups that bring new moms together to help navigate the transitions into motherhood. There is else nothing like it in the community and it has been an invaluable resource to help with difficult issues such as post-partum depression and anxiety, confidence, stress reduction, and relationship issues. I particularly love the "come as you are" mentality and the safe space created by the social worker and other staff at the center.

Being new to Michigan with no family/friends around and having delivered my baby in the middle of a tough winter, I think I faced a little more than "baby blues". I learned about MomShare through my ObGyn and made a goal to attend a meeting as soon as my son was at least a month old. I was nervous to take him anywhere by myself, to drive in the snow, to put myself out there, etc, but knowing that this support group existed really helped me get through a tough postpartum period. I'm thankful for this group and for Lisa Anderson for organizing it, as the time after giving birth can be very lonely and isolating.

I had the great privilege to volunteer for eight months with The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. It is amazing how much of an impact TWCSEMI has had on its surrounding community. Not only do they provide mental health services, job coaching/training, human services but they provide a place for people to feel safe and know what it’s like to be truly loved. I am very impressed with this organization and they have my full trust as an international student and lesbian identified people of color.

I am so grateful for The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan! Their entire team and organization are beyond resourceful and amazing. From the moment I was in the door, I am greeted by smiles and warmth. I discovered The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan by recommendation from my OBGYN after I had my baby in July. I was referred to a social worker because of some postpartum issues I was having. Thankfully I was introduced to Lisa Anderson who runs a Mom Group (MomShare) out of the The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan office. This group literally changed my life, thus changing the lives of my family. I was able to find my Village here. I could literally go on and on about my love of MomShare, which provided me with the support, love, tools, friendship and compassion I needed after the birth of my daughter. The support I feel from the second I walk into the building to the time I leave is huge! By visiting the Center weekly (MomShare) I was able to meet other staff members at the office, and discover the rest of the resources offered at The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. I now know where to turn to for so many things. I have referred multiple women to the Center in hope to pass along this resource.

My student organization has partnered with the Women's Center for multiple projects and, in the process, has learned so much about the hugely important work that they're doing. Cannot say enough about how wonderful the people are at the Center!

The Women's Center has been a great ally to all women in the area, offering incredible advocacy efforts and compassionate care. The people who work there are truly an inspiration, and their efforts to offer education and resources to women in this area are vital to the health, well-being, and safety of everyone. Truly a wonderful institution full of dedicated advocates.

I was lucky enough to volunteer with The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan to complete a project for my final college class. Not only did I gain valuable experience and learn more about the inter-workings of a nonprofit, I was welcomed and immediately made to feel at home among the employees and fellow volunteers. It is easy to tell that The Women's Center not only cares about the people it's serving, but also the wonderful people who work and volunteer there. Ann Arbor, and the entire southeastern part of Michigan, is lucky to have such a wonderful center right in their backyard.

I volunteered at The Women's Center for a few weeks and absolutely loved getting to know everyone there. The staff and other volunteers were so welcoming and kind and I could tell they were all very passionate about helping people. They made sure I was comfortable and included me in activities and meetings just as much as the full-time staff. They really exceeded my expectations.

I feel beyond blessed to be completing my field placement for my Master's in Social Work at The Women's Center as my experience has been incredibly transformative, enriching, and replete with valuable developmental growth opportunities both personally and professionally. There is a tangible warmth that can be felt throughout The Women's Center that is strengthened by the charisma and passion of all the staff, volunteers, and clients who are touched and changed from their positive experiences at this special place. The counter of snacks, freshly picked flowers, and free coats, toiletries, and books all add to the inviting and welcoming nature of the space and all those within it. I have greatly enhanced my self-awareness and worldview through the phenomenal supervisors who are eager and enthusiastic to teach and grow alongside clients and interns like myself. The supportive network within The Women's Center is so viscerally felt that I already feel at home when I enter the space each week and my experience has been so positive that I hope to continue to be connected with The Center after I graduate and to incorporate the values and felt experience into all future work and interactions I have with others.

Over the last many months, I have become so impressed by the staff, interns and volunteers at The Women's Center. The services provided there are centered around the support, encouragement and empowerment of women, and the commitment to this mission within the organization is shown in the quantity and quality of their offerings, programs and events. The atmosphere is warm, nurturing, and welcoming, yet always professional, and operations in the organization are organized and efficient. The value The Women's Center provides to women - and therefore society at large - in our area is immeasurable.

The Women’s Center is a safe place to claim our worth and imagine our futures. My introduction to the center was a class with Sibel Ozer using the process of painting to reflect on the seasons of life. It was such a supportive small group for times of transition that I enrolled in several sessions. Later, when I approached the center to volunteer, I received a warm welcome and the immediate opportunity to use my skills and talents. The staff and volunteers live the mission of self-determination for women with authenticity and integrity. They embody the philosophy of counseling focused on women’s strengths. They do life-changing work and educate and inspire new helping professionals. The Women’s Center is an effective nonprofit with dedicated and dynamic leadership. They know how to steward their resources to make the most impact for brave women who want to grow stronger.

About 16 years ago I was in desperate need of a therapist who could work with someone with severe and persistent mental illness. I stopped in at The Women's Center. The receptionist confirmed that TWC worked primarily with women who had less serious mental illness or issues. As I turned to leave, someone whom I hadn't seen behind the counter which was quite high stood up and said she would be interested in talking with me. We agreed to meet to see if we could work something out. I ended up meeting with her regularly until she retired in 2017. During that time I witnessed the move to the current facility which now now no longer has a high counter.. I have always felt comfortable at TWC and recommend it to others. I am glad my new therapist sees me at TWC.

When I wanted to return to clinical social work after years of working as an administrator, one of my colleagues recommended the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. I met with the directors and explained that although I had my certification to practice social work, I wanted more support and education. The directors invited me to attend the weekly Community of Practice, during which experienced social work gave supervision to graduate students and also shared best practices. I enjoyed learning from the Community of Practice and soon felt like I had come home.

After a year,I am now a full time psychotherapist at Room to Talk. I appreciate the support of my colleagues and mentors, and I relish the opportunity to share my learning with students.

As a former volunteer and intern, every year deepens my appreciation of what a uniquely warm, collaborative, and nurturing space that the women's center provided for its volunteers as well as it's clients.

From the moment you walk in, The Women's Center has an incredibly welcoming atmosphere. There is always a volunteer at the front desk to greet you, there are fresh flowers everywhere, free toiletries and coats for those in need, and a kitchen with snacks for everyone! The Center provides therapy and other services to people who may not be able to find it anywhere else. This is a place that puts people over profit; they truly care about the people they are serving. As an intern, I feel very supported by staff and supervisors. With each new client, I see the change that The Women's Center is creating in the community. It is an honor to work here and I know I will stay connected even after I leave.

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is a dedicated organization that serves individuals who have been silenced. Their focus is to empower them to help achieve better life opportunities. The staff is welcoming, sweet, and truly dedicated to their clients. I truly enjoy volunteering and contributing to the mission.

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is a community hub of psychological, emotional and spiritual sustenance. It supports, empowers, and lifts women and families, absolutely practicing social justice and holistically serving those in need with the dignity and respect they deserve. When you are at the Women's Center, you are home in some fundamental way.

As a transgender woman struggling to find her voice, the Women's Center has helped embolden my spirit and strengthen my steps, so that I find myself more confident in my inner-song. In finding support I have learned to support; in becoming empowered I have learned to empower. And the Women's Center has been essential to this journey of hope and possibility.

I cannot say enough about the Women's Center--it is what every community needs and far too few have. For those between havens, it is a shelter; for those between rivers, it is a well; for those between blessings, it is a prayer. Thank goodness for the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan!

I completed a six-week internship at The Women's Center as an undergraduate student, and was incredibly impressed with the dedication, warmth, and professionalism of the therapists and other staff members. The facility itself is comfortable and welcoming, and there is an immediate feeling of community and support as soon as you walk in the door. The therapists here are extremely committed to their work and to supporting each and every one of their clients. The environment is one that encourages learning, growth, and empowerment for everyone, and I feel very fortunate to have had the opportunity to work for such an amazing place!

I felt very welcomed the very first time that I walked into The Women's Center. The atmosphere is soothing and cheery. I started out as a volunteer and then joined the staff. We serve such a diverse clientele from in and nearby Washtenaw County. The staff, therapists, and interns are great to work with. I can truly say that I love coming to work since we are able to touch the lives of so many people.

I am proud to be a part of such a wonderful agency that provides clients a safe/welcoming space to explore concerns! The Women's Center is a valuable asset to the community and helps individuals who would otherwise be unable to seek services due to financial barriers receive quality mental health/supportive services from compassionate professionals/interns!

I had the pleasure of interning at the Women's Center while completing my Masters degree in Social Work. I had no previous experience doing therapy, and felt beyond terrified going into this new field. I felt immediately comfortable and welcome at The Women's Center and received a lot of support and encouragement from the supervisors and staff who work there. The Women's Center fills a huge gap in mental health services for those who cannot afford to pay for services out of pocket or don't have adequate health insurance. I loved interning there because The Women's Center values helping those on the margins of society who often need our help the most. I truly believe they carry out their mission with dignity, providing consistent respect and support to their clients, staff, and interns.

As someone who seeks to find a community within the workplace, The Women's Center has been a wonderful fit. Not only do I play a role as a therapist but I am fulfilled by my colleagues and the amazing women who walk through our doors. This agency has proven to be committed to serving the most vulnerable with open arms, no questions asked. It is an empowering experience to be surrounded by people who are supportive and determined to overcome any challenges. The Women's Center is more than a workplace, it is a family.

I couldn't have been more blessed to have stumbled upon this agency. i was going through a rough time with my girlfriend and she suggested that I seek help. I have always wanted to as an adult, but felt apprehensive because of finances, judgement, etc. I met my counselor, who is currently seeking her MSW, and I thought... oh no... is this going to be okay.... because I actually already have my MSW. I was so completely elited after my first visit. I have never felt so supported, empowered, and understood. As a co-worker and I say, I've even had many lightbulb moments. I know that they say therapy isn't forever but I literally worry about what's to happen when she leaves because I have grown so much as a woman, a worker, etc. She always greets me warmly, offers tea or snacks that are available, and assures to meet my needs I want to work through each visit. So thank you for your affordable, awesome, and non-judgemental environment.

I also have to say that the front desk staff is also so kind. So thank you! Thank you!!

We are so fortunate to have this organization in our community. No other place will serve women regardless of their ability to pay and no other organization will continue seeing clients until the client decides she's done. That said, our community has to support the work financially and/or with volunteer hours.

The Women's Center is one of the rarest sanctuaries you would think of finding. It was genuinely founded on the most authentic principles of creating a safe space for women in need of therapy, job coaching, as well as other resources. I have had the privilege of volunteering and interning here. I have found in the Women's Center a model of what a non-profit should feel and function like to those who come there for resources in the greatest time of need.

The Women's Center is an amazing resource for the community. Staff and volunteers are committed to creating a warm and welcoming environment for women. Through the use of a sliding scale fee, TWC ensures that affordable care is available for everyone. This is a safe and supportive center that offers hope to women through: one on one personal counseling, divorce support group, job coaching and financial counseling. There is no place like the Women's Center.

The Women’s Center of SEMI, has been an incredible resource and blessing. Several years ago, I was facing many heavy challenges from being unexpectedly laid off, going through a divorce, lost my home, and my cash assets were quickly depleting, amongst many other trials. I do not have any family nearby and did not want to burden my friends. I felt like I was completely on my own, until I found out about The Women’s Center. The Women’s Center had wonderful therapists who provided a great listening ear, and guidance. I always looked forward to my counseling sessions as it was refreshing to be able to talk to someone unbiased, caring, and have a non-judgmental ear to lean on. Being that I was unemployed, they worked within my budget to determine an amount I could afford to obtain the counseling I needed. I had to use most of my funds to pay rent and couldn’t afford food on a regular basis either. The Women’s Center had a pantry at the time where I was able to gather canned goods. Now, that I am in a much better place, I’m excited for the opportunities to pay it forward to The Women’s Center and others in need. William Shakespeare said, "A friend is one that knows you as you are, understands where you have been, accepts what you have become, and still, gently allows you to grow." They were not only a resource, but a much needed friend and incredible support system. I consider The Women’s Center of SEMI, my friends for life.

My first experience with the women's center was as a client in 2013, coming here for the divorce education class. I don't know of any other place where women can get such incredible resources surrounding divorce and other big life changes. I began volunteering here in 2016 as a way to both give back and to gain experience as I prepared to apply for social work graduate school. I'm happy to report that I've been accepted to an MSW program and will be starting in the fall! The women's center is a soothing, comforting, empowering environment. I love being here. I feel safe and supported whenever I walk in the door. There is a rotating collection of art by local artists on the walls, the staff and interns are trained to support people through grief and trauma, there is an atmosphere of trust and respect for each client, and always a pot of hot coffee to drink out of real mugs.

I have had the privilege of working with The Women's Center for over a year as an intern and volunteer. The space is beautiful and inviting, the staff and interns are committed to creating respectful partnerships with clients, and the programs are specifically designed for the needs of women in our community.

The Women's Center serves a unique role in the community, providing vital services on a sliding scale fee. Our dedicated volunteers, staff, interns and donors are committed to opening the doors of possibility and changing lives. The atmosphere is welcoming, comfortable and inclusive - a safe place to build hope.

I had a great experience here with an Intern therapist, Amanda, (Mar.-Jul2015), but she graduated so I had to transition to another therapist. I was put on a waiting list for another therapist in mid-July before Amanda left. However, I never got a call so I followed-up in mid-August and was told that they could not find my application at all. I was told that I would have to reapply and be put on the approx. 30 day waiting list. I reported how unprofessional this was and after finally reaching a supervisor was given a therapist the next week.
However, the therapist I was given turned out to be an extremely invalidating intern and ended up betraying my trust by misunderstanding info. I gave her. After, leaving me in crisis she never contacted me again for a follow-up visit or to check on me.
She had a few good suggestions at my initial visit but never followed up on anything she said she'd check on for me.
I don't know how this place is funded but the funders might want to take a 2nd look at the quality they are getting from the staffing there.

The Women's Center has a niche market/clientele that find peace and guidance wrapped in the wise direction of those that work at the Center. All of the adminstration, staff and volunteers understand the unique qualities that the Women's Center possess for anyone walking in off the street struggling with where to go next in life, in their careers, in their personal lives.
Having been involved with the Center since the first day they opened 14+ years ago, I have served in many capacities. I've been on the Board, volunteered in different capacities to assist for various programs and on an ongoing basis have donated time and money.
I am always humbled by the good people who work to provide a stable, steady, kind and nurturing atmosphere for all who enter. Please take some time to stop by and be amazed and dazzled by the work of the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan.
Andrea KD

You never think that in 12 months, the way you live your life and interact with people can completely change. The Women's Center was more than an internship. It was a home or should I say is a home. I can honestly say that TWC, in addition to my parents, had a hand in raising me into the strong woman I am today.

Being a part of the TWC community is like falling in love with your soul mate. One day you cannot imagine how you moved through life before meeting the other. All you know is that you never want to go back.

May TWC continue to be a home to the staff, interns, and countless community members we have reached. May we all feel TWC's love for many years to come.

As a former intern (2004) returning to the community after many years away The Women's Center has been an amazingly supportive and grounding space in helping to reestablish connection and a career in our new home. Over many years it has been wonderful to be part of this group virtually/electronically and now to be able to come together with a group of insipiring women to support the community in a meaningful way.

I had the privilege to work as an intern for The Women's Center (class of summer 2012). TWC provides a truly unique environment where both clients and interns can feel supported in their goals. It was a great place to work and I learned so much from fellow interns, supervisors, and clients. I am so grateful for TWC and encourage anyone in need of compassionate, competent, and supportive services to give them a call.

The Center is a lot more than a place for service, it is a community, a home. The staff, the supervisors and the volunteers are all embodiments of the centers values of acceptance and empowerment. I am more than proud to be associated with it

I'm a former intern (class of 2011) who returned to the center to help in anyway I could. The Women's Center is a safe place that I needed after leaving a very toxic job. I offer my help in anyway I can and the organization warmly accepts me and my efforts. The Women's Center does so much for so many! We offer counseling to those who are truly struggling. We have job coaching for those who need help with resumes and interview tips in this hard job market. If a woman is struggling with the end of a marriage or long-term partnership, we offer educational groups and a support group. When I had the privilege to offer counseling through The Women's Center, so many of my clients showed their appreciation for the therapy they received. The Women's Center does all it can to truly fulfill it's mission and I'm so grateful that I have the opportunity to continue to support this wonderful organization!

I have been providing computer support (on and off) for the Women's Center for several years. I've witnessed the dedication, passion and commitment that the Center's staff have supporting their mission. Their passion is unflagging and contagious. I am proud to be able to support this wonderful group of staff and volunteers, who in turn provide such a valuable service to the community.

I am PROUD to be the new Chair of The Women's Center of SE Michigan. I'm also the 'old'est chairperson as I was a co-founder and first Chair in 2000. This last year has been a very difficult one - financially - and, in fact, we had to briefly close our doors in June. But the tenacity of the staff, volunteer supervisors, interns, and a major donor brought me to my feet and, together, we're taking a stand! We have long recognized the need to become financially more sustainable, but how to do so and not compromise our principles was a difficult hurdle to cross. Together, we are on Journey 2.0. Together, we have developed an additional program, Room To Talk™, where licensed therapists trained by TWC in the past, will be able to provide services to insured individuals and where those who do not wish to use their insurance and/or have the ability to pay a reduced fee will be seen by limited licensed therapists. We hope to have this program fully launched by January, 2015. TWC is also in the process of working toward expansion of its many group programs. We can use your help! Please consider making a donation by going to our website: www.womenscentersemi.org. Thank you!

The Women's Center has been such a wonderful place for not only the clients served but also the interns. The staff provides the most welcoming and warm environment for whoever walks into the door. Working there has been the most beautiful experience for me and my clients.

I am currently an Intern at TWC from EMU. I was not sure if I was going to do internship over the summer, but the opportunity to interview came up and I decided to go for it. It was THE BEST decision I have made recently.. and I am honored to be a part of TWC. They are not only completely dedicated to the best services available to the community, but also an unbelievable group of women who epitomize strength, knowledge, and dedication to the profession. How fortunate am I to be a part of this organization?

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is a most welcoming place where people can seek counseling, as well as many other services and referrals. Helping people gain strength and healing during times of difficulty.

A unique model which offers service to anyone who can come to the center, and provides valuable intern opportunities for Master's level counseling students. A win/win model!

As a volunteer, I am impressed by the staff, board of directors and interns. The passion of the executive staff and the dedication of the interns is outstanding. I am proud to be part of such a professional organization that serves others with compassion.

I have been a volunteer for the Women's Center for two years and have enjoyed the interaction I have with the staff as well as our clients. The Women's Center has been very instrumental in reaching out to the community to provide the necessary services needed for the women in this county.

TWC is a great organization that helps women build confidence and independence through programs offered at the center. TWC provides emotional support through counseling services and educational training through job coaching, tax progams and financial counseling. Please endorse and support TWC's dedication of providing emotional and economic self-determination for women, girls, and families.

I am farely new to the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan, but have already experienced many good things from this organization. Last year I was diagnosed withStage III breast cancer, and had undergone surgery, chemo, and radiation. I am self employed and have catastrophic insurance, and am currently struggling with finances and anxiety. The WCofSEM provided me with a counselor at a reduced co pay, and scheduled me for weekly appointments to help aid me in mental and emotional support. Kara has been wonderful to me and very helpful. She has provided sources to help me seek financial aid with my copays medications, and how to practice cognitive therapy. I am very lucky to have discovered this wonderful organization. I hope that other's that are in simuliar situations as I am are lucky enough to discover the WCofSEM.

Self determination can mean a lot of different things. Whether people are seeking ways to stay afloat financially, seeking a job, or struggling personally through a difficult time, the Women's Center is there. With everything from financial counseling to personal therapy, the staff, interns, and volunteers seek to give women and girls the confidence and knowledge to stand on their own feet and make the decisions that are best for them. Hundreds of women contact the center for referrals and direct help. The staff is so dedicated-- this is no 9 to 5 job for them. The staff and interns have a special dedication to women, and a passion for helping people as individuals, no matter where they are in their life. Even if someone just comes in to use the Clothes Closet (professional clothes for job interviews) or get more information in a divorce seminar, this organization changes lives.

The Women's Center is dedicated to "self-determination" and expresses that in their service delivery, attitude toward clients, and volunteers.

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan has been one of the few organizations where I have been able to research jobs and educational information concerning schools of higher learning in a quiet and undisturbed setting. I appreciate the opportunity to explore necessary information on the computers in the library. The staff is always pleasant and helpful. Thank you for the people who have provided this facility.

The Jean Ledwith King Women's Center of Southeast Michigan is one of the finest organization it has been my privilege to work with. Their care and concern for the community of women, children and families of all kinds is unsurpassed. Every action that they take is for the people they serve, and they are a true resource for women in need. I mostly work with Kim Cumming, but I see and feel her leadership and passion reflected throughout the organization in the way each one contributes their time and care for others who need it. We need to be there for each other in times of need. This organization does that.

As a former board member, I had firsthand insight into the administration of The Women's Center. The leadership's passion for this center's mission was matched by a thoughtful, conscientious stewardship of limited resources. The community views The Women's Center, rightly, as a true treasure.

During the 10 years I have been volunteering at the Women's Center I have met many wonderful people that I count as friends and have learned a lot about the programs that are available to help people through difficult times. I look forward to going to the Women's Center each week and feel that I have gained as much in my own life as I have given in service. It is a wonderful, caring place that really lives up to the ideals of service and helping others.

As a board member, I experience the extreme dedication of individuals (staff, volunteers, board members, interns, donors) associated with the Women's Center. This dedication results from a tremendous sense of assisting the women and girls we serve in accomplishing important changes in their lives. In addition, individuals also really enjoy their involvement and interaction with the Women's Center's like-minded, compassionate community. As the lead of the board's strategic planning committee, I am proud of our history and our plans for the future.

I'm unsure of what to call myself at this organization, but I think volunteer best describes it. I have been volunteering here since January, and I can say from first-hand experience that this organization is really here to change people's lives for the better. Not only do we provide personal counseling, we also empower women by finding them resources as well as building skills in them to advocate for themselves. This organization really is one in a million and if you can volunteer, work, or even spend a minute at the Center, you will find that you too can make a difference in the lives of countless women.

Very helpful people. They helped me to find job and get back on track after divorce.

I served on the board 2004-2010, as chair for the first three years, and continue as a volunteer, most recently as a co-chair for the Power of One event celebrating Jean Ledwith King. The Women's Center is unique and essential to our community, providing a safety net of comprehensive critical services under one roof and making them affordable. No one is turned away. The Center's work consists not only in providing human services, but more importantly in implementing a vision of social justice in terms of gender and socio-economic class. In spite of the current economy, the Center continues to deliver high quality services because, in part, it draws in professionals who volunteer their skills and time, which have a dollar value of 1.5 times the annual operating budget. In addition to direct programs and services, the Center has created a General Resources document in order to provide accurate responses to callers (3000 annually) needing critical information about food, shelter, medical care, etc. As a result the Center has become the go-to organization for other organizations that need to know how and where to refer their own callers and clients. The Center is unique and essential in our community in addressing the emotional and financial challenges of women who have nowhere else to go.

I was involved in helping to paint and move the Women's Center to its new location. It was by far the most fun and rewarding experience I have ever had. Not only was everyone so great and helpful but they acknowledged your hard work. It is always great to be appreciated especially when you are moving large and heavy things.

I just attended a gala event sponsored by the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. The event was part of their Power of One series and it honored Jean Ledwith King, an amazing women whose name will now be associated with the center. It was a wonderful, powerful evening and I was very impressed with the organization, dedication and commitment of the members of this group. I would not hesitate to donate to the women's center because of all of the services they provide to women, children and families of Michigan. During these tough economic times, the women's center is essential and it deserves the support of the community.

As a nonprofit consultant I work with many organizations, and The Jean Ledwith King Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is as good as they come. JLKWC has a strategic vision of where it wants to be and the staff and operational volunteers to see it through to fruition. Its commitment to mission and ongoing review of everything it does to avoid "mission-drift" is noteworthy.

I've been involved with The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan (TWC) for several years. My involvement and commitment has deepened the more that I learned about it and the work it does in our community. TWC helps women and families through affordable counseling, financial, legal, and job-related services. Its doors are open to individuals who want to change their lives emotionally, professionally, and financially. I continue to be impressed with TWC's responsibility and responsiveness to community needs.

As a former counseling volunteer, I heartily support the The Women's Center. They provided me with knowledge, experience, training skills and friendship in a warm, supportive environment. I cherish my experiences with the Women's Center and hope to volunteer there again soon.

In the world of mental health care approximately 80%-90% of the publicly available funds go to programs that help approximately 10% of the most severely impacted people. That leaves a very large number of people in need of care and support but who cannot afford private practitioner rates. The Women's Center is one a very few agencies that help to fill that gap.

I came to the center as an intern while working on my MSW and found the Center to be one of the most amazing agencies I'd ever encountered. After finishing me degree I found I did not want to leave the Center, the experience had been so fulfilling and the work they do being so important in the community. I have since returned as a volunteer therapist to continue helping in the great work the Center does.

I was an intern with The Women's Center during my MSW program, and I can't imagine a better environment in which to develop myself as a therapist. The Women's Center's mission of empowering women and girls is apparent is all aspects of the organization, and it helped me to develop a therapeutic style that is genuinely centered around my clients' goals. The Center fosters an atmosphere that inspires confidence in everyone that walks through the door--staff, interns, volunteers, and clients alike.

It is a true honor to be associated with such a meaningful organization that is truly impacting our community. I've seen many people's lives changed through the varied programs offered by The Center. They're really making a difference!

The women's Center is an phenomenal place to be! It is such a great agency that helps thousands of women and men a year. I've been an intern here for 2 semesters and I absolutely love the place. The Women's Center really has a high respect for clients and volunteers and everyone here tries to create a welcoming atmosphere for any one who walks in the door. It's an amazing place for the community!

Ever since I was an intern at The Women's Center 3 years ago it has been my life's mission to make the whole world more like this organization! There is simoply no place I have found that provides such supportive, dignified services in such a genuinely caring and respectful manner.

The Women's Center (TWC) of Southeastern Michigan provides services that are otherwise sorely lacking in the community, and in some cases in the surrounding region. The small paid staff, troupe of interns and bevy of volunteers create an atmosphere of acceptance and empowerment that I have experienced no where else.

I've been an admirer of the Women's Center since it's embryonic days. I had the good fortune to serve two terms on the board, and have recently served as co-chair of an event that celebrated one of our nation's heroines--Jean Ledwith King--and the center's new name. In my years working with and on-behalf of the center, I've worked closely with the executive director Kim Cumming, gotten to know the staff and interns, and have seen first hand the powerful impact the center has made on our community. Drawing from its feminist values, the center is a fount of creativity, good will, brilliant management of limited resources, and unflinching dedication to the women, girls, and families in our community. The Jean Ledwith King Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan embodies the values and deep commitment to justice that Jean King's life exemplifies. I am proud of the Center and hold it out to all of us as benchmark for non-profits that truly 'walks its talk' and makes good things happen.

I came to The Women's Center when I was a mature student in a Master's of Social Work program with an idea for a program the community didn't have, information about the Earned Income Tax Credit and the assistance to help folks access this important tax credit for the working poor. A few years later I was hired and now am a staff member. The program is in it's eighth year, has a stable group of committed volunteers and scores of loyal and new clients every spring. This year we are establishing year round access to income tax preparation assistance. Individuals and families can electronically file current taxes with the support and encouragement of a knowledgeable, committed volunteer. Although it is a little more difficult we assist folks file past year taxes as well. I serve as the volunteer coordinator and we literally could not run our agency without our loyal, responsible, generous, and committed volunteers. I cannot say enough good things about them. I have been a social worker for over 30 years and this is one of the most responsible, concerned, committed agency I have ever worked at. I feel lucky to be employed at The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. We help women change their lives everyday and I find great joy and gratification from that fact.

I started volunteering at the Women's Center of SEM a few years ago, and I was a little nervous about working the front desk where calls would come in from sometimes desperate women who needed help; help with living expenses, help with a divorce or abusive spouse, help with taxes, help with a legal problem,help finding a job. You name it,the Women's Center received the calls. But there are so many resources out there, and if the Women's Center staff, volunteers and counselors couldn't actually provide the help needed, we were able to connect callers up with someone who could. It was very rewarding work, and I often left for the day feeling like I had really helped someone in need. I think the staff is fabulous and very caring, and they show every day how much they value volunteers. It's gotta be the best place in town to volunteer!

The women were a delight to work with and really appreciate our support. I just know that the money we raised is going to an amazing cause. I see the results first hand with new programs such as the free legal clinic for women.

I helped the staff and other volunteers get the Center's new space ready in the summer of 2009, largely by helping with painting. This brought me into informal contact with Center staff and volunteers. The center has attracted a very high-quality and high-energy staff and volunteer following! As this is a Women's Center, I myself am not part of their audience, but I can see from the people that are collected there that they bring a lot of energy and enthusiasm to their tasks and goals. If I were a woman and in need of the services provided at the Center, I would find the opportunities, support and people breath-taking, I have to say.

I have had the opportunity to watch the Women's Center grow over the past6-7 years. They have touched the lives of many people in a positive direction, including myself. The Women's Center has a staff of some truly amazing people that are there out of the goodness of their hearts to help people. The Women's Center is an honest hard working organization that is affordable and gives people hope and a chance that they thought they didn't have. I will continue to support the Women's Center anyway that I can.

My sorority supports the mission of The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan. I was the Vice President of Philanthropy. I organized girls working in their office and organized a silent auction for their orgainzation, where we were able to raise 20,000 dollars. I was so motivated by working at their office once a week for 2 years that I was determined to make as much for them as possible. They have a wonderful office that services a great deal of struggling women.

I've worked on financial statement audits of Women's Center for several years, and have always found them to be good stewards of donated funds. They take internal controls seriously, and have implemented our suggestions for improving controls.

I felt that the Women's Center was a comfortable and enjoyable environment where anyone who came would feel welcome. The people I volunteered with were very nice and always helpful. The women and men walked out of the Women's Center relieved and happy at what they had accomplished with the help of the tax coach.

Volunteers assist individuals and families in doing their own tax returns to take full advantage of all the available deductions and credits that they are eligible for. Teaching them how to use Turbo tax so they can complete their own return in the future. In some cases correcting prior year returns to get the largest refund available and getting clients caught up with all their tax refunds. Empowering clients to learn this skill to use in the future.

The Women's Center is a wonderful organization. My perspective is that of a current clinical intern but I have learned so much and the supervision/clinical experience provided by The Women's Center has been exceptional. The greatest part is to see the impact that The Women's Center has on clients in the community. The Women's Center offers a variety of services and really is a very important resource in the community. To see how clients are helped and empowered by The Women's Center has been truly amazing! It's difficult to imagine this community without this vital resource.

The Women's Center provides much needed and affordable services to women and their families and is a wonderful place to volunteer. Both clients and volunteers are treated with great respect and regard. Programs are in place to help low-income women navigate the complex modern world, including personal, financial, legal and divorce counseling. A tax program helps clients complete their income tax returns every year.

I have been a volunteer at the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan for the past eight years. During that time I have been involved with the the tax program, flower pick up & arrangement, & in 2009 was a hostess at the May fundraiser. I am honored & enlightened to be involved with such an exemplary, efficient & outstanding non-profit agency providing a host of services to the men, women & children in our community.

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan is an amazing resource for our community! I learned of this resource through a colleague who volunteers her time with the Center, and I was immediately impressed by the professionalism and kindness of all of the volunteers, staff members, and Board members that I met. I helped organize a fundraiser for the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan, and through this experience had the opportunity to meet even more members of this wonderful organization. I was treated to a tour of their lovely new facility, and, again, was continually impressed by the dedication and true kindness of everyone associated with the Center. I look forward to volunteering with the Center soon!

The income tax program provides income tax preparation for clients via free Turbotax. Counselors assist clients with tax questions, running the program and filing electronically or by mail. Time spent with the client is not limited. Counselors will work with the client until taxes are finished. Refreshments and a friendly atmosphere add to the experience.

The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan changed my life, and it also changed how I view and treat other women. I felt like I could trust everyone from the counselor who helped me to the receptionist who greeted me every week. In order to do the work that they do you have to be extremely devoted to you job and to the people that you help. The Women's center goes above and beyond devotion.

A wonderful experience for me being part of this hard working and seriously focused group of people striving to make The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan flourish and grow. This is presently a local group in Ann Arbor helping women find a new direction for their lives from professional staff and many volunteers.

I found this organization to be totally dedicated to helping women from all walks of life: poor, well-off but controlled and helpless before domineering men; deeply depressed, scared, threatened and helpless. They have come out of the Women's Center feeling more confident, knowing what to do, taking control of their lives and also willing to help others. They have found out information, and they have found camaraderie and support. It's a fabulous organization.

The staff, interns, and volunteers at The Women's Center were very helpful and welcoming. The Center's mission is wonderful, and it inspired me to seek employment in a similar agency after my internship was finished. The community support of The Women's Center is a testament to its mission and efficacy.

The Women’s Center offers hope and so many important resources. I have seen people at the end of their ropes who came to TWC and found an empathetic listener, resources they didn’t know existed, or even just a place to take a deep breath and regroup. Some have said they could not have lived without it. What a difference TWC makes in women’s lives. I also had the honor of working with clients on a long term basis. Being part of a clients cathartic transformation through hard and persistent therapeutic work was a truly rewarding experience for me as a clinician, one I will not forget. Through the help they seek out at The Women’s Center many women discover they have choices in their lives, sometimes for the first time. I have been witness to the fact that the ability to make seemingly simple decisions can have a great impact on the power a woman feels she has in her world and what she can do with that power. I have also witnessed women find a more concrete sense of themselves, who they are and what they have to offer the world from a more empowered point of view. Simply put The Women's Center changes lives.

The Women'Center of Southeastern Michigan is an awesome agency! First, they serve clients in a caring way that is rarely seen in public agencies these days. Second, they offer our counseling students wonderful opportunities to work with clients, to receive ourstanding supervision, and to experience all levels of how an agency functions. They are remarkable!!

I was first introduced to the Woman’s Center when I helped out with an auction a couple of years ago. My friend was working at the time and asked if I could give a hand. I was instantly blown away by the kindness, dedication, and authenticity of not only every member, volunteer and employee of the Woman’s Center, but also by the entire goal and purpose of the organization as well. Since then, I’ve volunteered multiple times and helped others utilize their services. As a high school teacher working with at-risk students, I often refer kids to the Woman’s Center for counseling knowing full well that each individual will get thoughtfully placed with an effective match, and that regardless of insurance, they will find a way to get these students the help they need. I’ve also maintained contact and dialog with the staff (particularly their wonderful director), and the advice, tips, and encouragement I’ve received for working with at-risk students has been invaluable. I’ve seen, and worked with, a great deal of non-profit organizations throughout the years, but never have I been so impressed and moved by the grassroots work done by the Woman’s Center. Quite simply, they are passionately dedicated to helping others, they give hope to those in need, and they truly make the kind of difference that changes lives. I am honored to have been a part of the Woman’s Center of Ann Arbor and look forward to helping out in any way I can for years and years to come.

As a former intern of The Women's Center, I can personally attest to the welcoming and professional environment that is offered to all who come in. The interns are always very impressive and the staff is truely amazing.

The Women's Center of Southeast Michigan has been a great partner in my sorority's philanthropy. The volunteers and staff of the center have always done their best to work well with our members. They have also always shown amazing gratitude for our gifts.

This is an easy place for both women and men to get help, even though the programs are designed specifically to empower women. I first came to The Women's Center because I was feeling stuck. Over the years, I have seen that this is not unusual. Many of us feel stuck for any number of reasons: relationship problems, care-giving challenges, strained finances, overwhelming responsibilities, and limited decision-making power. The results are the same: Emotional paralysis. Anger. Depression. Anxiety. Identifying our strengths is the first step in getting "unstuck." Women's Center volunteers and staff are committed to helping people build on their best qualities, and this encouraging attitude is evident in their relationships with program participants and with each other. Many volunteers are former clients like myself, who know how critical low-cost, accessible support can be.

What makes The Women's Center so special is the show of respect paid to all who pass through the doors. What this kind of respect looks like in service delivery, is holding an awareness of clients as so much bigger than their particular problem. From the amazing staff to the dedicated volunteers and student interns, clients passing through these doors experience, many for the first time, a sense of their own worthiness as human beings. What a way to begin healing.

The Women's Center truly allows people in need to receive not only practical support, but respect and dignity at a time when they may feel alone and hopeless. I remember my time at TWC with only fond memories of being able to be a part of something SO much more than just an internship that I was doing to get my hours. It was a place where I grew professionally and personally. Support abounded and allowed me to become who I am today in the work world AND in my life as a whole. I was only there for a year, but I feel that year has allowed me to go into the mental health field as a graduate and have a good perspective regarding our work. I constantly draw from that experience on my job today, sometimes without even realizing it. I see the importance of empowering clients and remembering that we are not "above" them but assisting them, working together, in ways that allow them to reach their full potential - the potential that they are now able to see and want for their own lives. I am grateful for this perspective because this is a challenging field to work in and it is easy to see how people can get 'burned out' after awhile. The staff at TWC are extremely dedicated, sincere and a joy to know. The clients are able to come to the Center and find what they are looking for - be it food, career clothing, tax assistance, counseling...the list goes on. At TWC, I saw how important it can be to have someone who will listen to you - which we may sometimes take for granted. Many of us may not realize just how much having a nonjudgmental, caring person to talk to can open up parts of ourselves -- open up ways of understanding and new perspectives that may have never occurred to us without a safe place. I recommend The Women's Center as that 'safe place' to prospecting interns and women in our communities alike. It is truly an inspiring environment in which to grow. Thanks to The Women's Center for all they do for the people in our communities and our aspiring social workers/counselors.

The Women's Center is one of those organizations that is forever in touch with its mission to help women and their families. They live it, they breathe it. There is little hierarchy. Clients, interns, staff, leadership are all invited to participate in making sure that services are being performed to the best of their abilities. Whether it is how the phones are answered, how the specific needs of a client are attended to - such as practical services, clothes for an interview, the type of therapy that would best suit them, tax help, a variety of support groups that are found no where else in the county, books to check out, or having a cup of coffee - the staff works to make sure that all are supported and empowered as much as possible so that they can get to a better place. I learned so much as an intern there and it has made me a better counselor today.

I am a 65 year 'young' woman who has had the good fortune of a good life, but it wasn't always this way. When I needed urgent help and long-term guidance, there was no such organization around. Later, when I had the opportunity to participate in creating an organization that helps to empower women and girls, I jumped on the bandwagon (10 years ago). I am very proud of The Women's Center - last year, we assisted over 700 women providing counseling and referral services through a unique method of working with our local academic institutions educating social workers, psychologists, etc. who need training. We leverage our Master's level social worker employees who supervise the work of the trainees. We are actively engaged in the community and work collaboratively with many other organizations to effect change.

This is an organization that really "walks its talk" and lives true to its mission. I am continuously impressed by how much they do on so little, in large part because of the multi-talented, incredibly dedicated staff, and in large part because of its incomparable volunteer cadre - including its deeply committed board of directors. I continue to be inspired by The Women's Center's dedication, professionalism, integrity, and commitment to living its values.

this is the finest organization of its type in the area. and lots of people depend on their services. it's friendly, homey, and professional all at the same time. they deserve a 5 star rating. and the staff is the utmost, with quality people everywhere. can't say enough about this facility. very caring, sharing, and fabulous . even to the point of bring a dog in for a therapy session with a client that wouldn't speak to humans!!

it is a very warm, welcoming place. Provides a great raaprt with other women. A truly inspiring place and am proud to supprt such an organization

The staff and director of the Women's Center I met are dedicated, talented and persistent in their work to improve the lives of their clients. They have a range of services and expertise to help with anything from obtaining life skills in areas such as job hunting to counseling, to empowerment workshops. It provides a great launchpad for a woman looking to improve her life.

The Women's Center and it's director, Kim Cumming, set a standard for me. I spent a year working as an intern therapist while in graduate school. During that time, I learned not only the skills to become a good therapist, but also gained an image of the ideal. The Women's Center is the kind of organization that allows interns, clients and staff to feel empowered, respected and important. As my supervisor, Kim taught me how to empower people to change their own lives. I learned that this allows for lasting change, rather than the impulse to provide for or

The people that work at the woman's center are friendly, helpful and supportive. They welcome you with open arms and appreciate anything that you can do for them. When I helped them move to there new home they were open to everyone's ideas and opinions. They just wanted there new home to be the best that it could be. Not only have a been a volunteer but I was a client as well. It was a honor to show them how much they helped me by giving back to them.

An amazing group of professionals who provide much needed service and support to the women of SE Michigan. It is a critical resource for our community.

My experience at The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan (TWC) has been, and continues to be, excellent. My initial contact with this organization was as a Generalist Social Work Intern. Following my internship committment, I have remained involved as a volunteer. The Women's Center provides a warm and supportive atmosphere in which student interns are nurtured and their knowledge is expanded. Creativity and individual expression are encouraged, and positive modeling and interactions with staff are every day experiences. Volunteers are appreciated, and offered the opportunity for continuing meaningful experiences with TWC.

On many days, the distinction between client and staff was not clear- all were treated with a level of courtesy and respect that is rare in mental health settings.

Working for the Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan was one of the most positive emotional and education experiences I was fortunate to have as a young adult. The supervisors at this Center encourage full participation, and cohesiveness amongst all staff members. Real world instruction is provided to the developing therapists, to assist them in becoming skilled professionals in the counseling and non-profit field. Group supervision is provided on a weekly basis, where interns and supervisors alike are able to contribute their unique ideas and/or challenges regarding specific cases, and receive constructive feedback. And last, but certainly not least, all staff members are provided with a plethora of emotional support, allowing them to be the most available and engaged counselors for their clients as possible. The Women's Center is chock full of men and women who truly want to provide emotional and practical economic services to the people of their community, especially those who could not afford such services without the help of sliding scale fees. The staff and interns at this agency are carefully selected to ensure that services rendered to clients are of the highest caliber possible. I was fortunate to begin my professional career with this agency. Thanks

The Women’s Center is a place that has been home to me for the last six weeks. During that time the staff, fellow interns and volunteers have been supportive, positive and determined to service the community in the best possible way. The people there are open, honest and hard working. I cannot think of a better place to be an intern or for a client to be helped using a totally holistic approach. We care about the emotional, mental and physical well being of everyone who comes through the door or contacts us in any way. The Women’s Center is generous with their time and limited resources. I feel blessed that I am a part of this wonderful team.

I've been involved with The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan (TWC) for several years. My involvement and commitment deepened the more that I learned about it and the work it does in our community. TWC helps women and families through affordable counseling, financial, legal, and job-related services. Its doors are open to individuals who want to change their lives emotionally, professionally, and financially. Although its work is primarily by and for women, we also welcome men and boys. I continue to be impressed with TWC's responsibility and responsiveness to community needs. I'm also impressed with its ability to help women in a way that develops life skills inherent to thriving families.

I am working toward my MSW degree at the University of Michigan. The Women's Center of Southeastern Michigan has been a great place to learn how to do therapy. It is an incredibly supportive environment, and everyone who works there works incredibly hard to serve TWC's clients well. It's one of the only places in the area people can get counseling on a *true* sliding scale (many people are priced out of sliding scales that bottom out at $40). TWC continually gets clients calling for counseling because our reputation within the professional community grows; other social workers I know smile when I say I work for TWC and tell me that many of their clients they've referred to TWC were greatly helped. It's a truly amazing place.