Resources for GVSU Families of the CEC
A Note to the Families
We are deeply sorry for what you are experiencing. We recognize that this is an incredibly difficult, painful, and overwhelming time, and we want you to know that you are not alone. The effects of this situation reach far beyond any one individual, touching families, friends, colleagues, and entire communities in different ways. We acknowledge the hurt, uncertainty, and challenges that many are facing, and we understand that there are more questions than answers right now.
While we may not have all the information people are seeking, please know that we are committed to being present, listening, and providing as much support, guidance, and resources as we can. Our wish is to stand alongside those affected with compassion, respect, and care. We will continue to share information as it becomes available and do everything within our ability to help. Above all, we want you to know that you are seen, you are supported, and you do not have to face this alone.
Upcoming Event: Caregiver Support Group at the Children's Advocacy Center, Oct. 6
The Children's Advocacy Center (CAC) will be holding two support group sessions for caregivers who have been impacted by the recent Children's Enrichment Center case to provide a space for connection, coping tools, and resources for caregivers and their kids as they take steps toward healing.
- Date: October 6
- Time: 5:30-6:30 p.m.
- Location: Children's Advocacy Center, 12125 Union Street, Holland, MI 49424
Dinner will be provided, as well as onsite childcare for caregivers to utilize while they meet with other caregivers. Childcare will provide crafts and activities that children can participate in with CAC staff. There will also be an onsite emotional support dog for those interested.
To enroll, please complete the questionnaire.
Beginning October: Continued Support for CEC Families
As you navigate finding trauma-informed therapeutic resources for yourself and your family, we want to share the ways GVSU will continue to support you. We recognize that each family's needs are different, and there is no one "right" way to seek support. Whether you are looking for immediate counseling services, ongoing therapy, or help identifying resources, the options below are available to you and your family.
Solace Counseling Services has been an incredible partner to GVSU during this time and will continue supporting CEC families. Their office is located less than two miles from campus.
We understand that some individuals may feel more comfortable accessing counseling away from the campus environment. Solace offers a setting that is private, comfortable, and easily accessible.
To get started, contact: Gina Merritt, at [email protected].
Gina and the Solace team will help connect you or your family members with the counseling resources that best meet your needs. Please let her know you were referred through the "GVSU CEC Family Support Program."
Cost of Counseling: Through October, GVSU will directly cover the cost of counseling services provided through Solace for CEC families. You will not need to manage the billing process yourself.
AllOne Health, GVSU's third-party Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offers confidential 24/7 crisis support, consultation, counseling, and coaching services. Because Solace may not be able to accommodate all requests, GVSU is also offering on-campus counseling appointments through AllOne Health at the Allendale Campus for all families of the CEC.
Dates/Times:
- Tuesday, October 6, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 7, 9-11 a.m.
- Tuesday, October 13, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 14, 9-11 a.m.
- Wednesday, October 21, 9-11 a.m.
- Tuesday, October 27, 10 a.m.–2 p.m.
- Wednesday, October 28, 9-11 a.m.
Sign up: on-campus counseling with ALlOne Health
Additional AllOne Health Resources (GVSU faculty, staff, and their families):
Create an account at AllOne Health Support using the code GVSUNI to access free resources and self-help tools. Faculty, staff, and eligible family members may receive up to seven free counseling sessions by calling 1-800-788-8630.
Please note that children age 8 and younger are not eligible for EAP counseling services. For children in this age group, services would need to be accessed through your health insurance provider, such as Priority Health. Additional counseling resources that accept Priority Health Insurance and have availability include:
The GVSU Family Resource Center is available as a centralized point of information, support, and connection to community services. Contact them via email for support.
Email: [email protected]
AllOne Health
AllOne Health, GVSU's third-party Employee Assistance Program (EAP), offers confidential 24/7 crisis support, consultation, counseling, and coaching services.
- Access free resources by creating an online account at AllOne Health Support using the code GVSUNI.
- Employees and eligible family members may schedule up to seven free counseling sessions by calling 1-800-788-8630.
On-Campus Counseling
On-Campus counseling support is available through Solace Counseling. A licensed counselor from Solace Counseling will be available to meet with faculty and staff who may be struggling with the emotional impact of this incident. This service is offered at no cost to you.
- Location: Alumni House, Lubbers Emeritus Lounge
- Hours: Monday through Friday, 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m.
- Sign up link: Book time with Solace Counseling
Childcare Option
GVSU is working with the YMCA of Greater Grand Rapids to provide you (at our expense) access to childcare. The YMCA has licensed facilities that cater to children in a variety of age groups at several locations.
You may contact Heather Walczewski with the YMCA at 616-745-0259 to explore options. GVSU employees, staff and students will be granted work flexibility to care for their children at home if they are able and choose to do so.
Child Advocacy Centers
For further resources and information, please explore the Child Advocacy Centers of Ottawa County and Kent County.
Support for CEC Families Who Are GVSU Faculty or Staff
Families whose children currently attend or recently attended the center, who are also employees of GVSU, are eligible for temporary workplace flexibility and support. The University recognizes that individual needs may vary and will work with employees to provide reasonable accommodations, including:
- Flexible work attendance and paid release time
- Temporary remote or hybrid work arrangements
- Adjusted work schedules
- Temporary workload and scheduling adjustments
You will be supported by Human Resources to ensure you the assistance most appropriate to your circumstances.
If you have information relevant to the Children's Enrichment Center (CEC) or this incident, please contact:
Mark Fisher
Michigan State Police Detective Trooper Specialist
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 616-866-4411
GVSU Contact
Robert Shorty
Vice President for People, Equity, and Culture
Phone: (616) 273-2244
We are offering impacted families a point person, Robert Shorty, so they are able to obtain assistance without repeatedly explaining their circumstances to multiple people.
Victim Advocate
Ashlie Boerma
Victim Advocate
Email: [email protected]
Phone: (616) 846-8338
Fax: (616) 846-8178
414 Washington Ave, Room 120
Grand Haven, MI 49417