On a cold evening in February 2021, Erin Clark listened closely as a Face Addiction Now team member shared her story and described how she became deeply involved with the organization.

Following the event, Erin spoke with a member of the Central Michigan Recovery and Education Network (CMREN), the organization that hosted the evening. She asked why there wasn’t a local FAN chapter, noting a strong need in her field. CMREN, a coalition funded through HRSA’s RCORP-I initiative, had plans to support the launch of a local chapter if there was enough interest.

Motivated by that conversation, Erin approached her employer, Community Mental Health – Central Michigan. With their support, planning began for what would become the Mecosta-Osceola FAN chapter. Erin continues to lead the chapter as its first president, working with a growing team that includes members from across the community.

The chapter provides opportunities for connection, education, and direct engagement through initiatives such as Hope Not Handcuffs, volunteer mentoring, and resource-sharing. All efforts are designed to foster understanding and provide practical help to individuals and families navigating substance-related challenges.