Madison Heights Resident Receives OCHN Peer Award

OAKLAND COUNTY, MI (August 26, 2022) – Paul Shankin was one of twelve Oakland County residents who received a Peer Recognition Award from Oakland Community Health Network (OCHN) during its 2022 “Your Voice, Your Value” conference.

The peer awards celebrate the contributions of peers to support people within the public mental
health system, and include peer support specialists, peer mentors, recovery coaches, youth peer
supports, and parent support partners.

Shankin received the Making a Difference Award, which honors someone who goes above and
beyond and thinks outside the box, increasing engagement for hard-to-reach individuals. This
individual works in a way that engages persons in their services, treatment, and recovery.

About OCHN

OCHN is contracted by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services to lead a provider service network that assists approximately 23,000 Oakland County citizens at more than 300 service sites across the county. People who receive public behavioral health services through OCHN's provider network include those who have an intellectual or developmental disability, mental health challenge, or substance use disorder. Most of these individuals have Medicaid insurance coverage.

OCHN's goal is to ensure these individuals are aware of and have access to services and supports that will improve their health and quality of life, as well as ensure their engagement in full community participation. Its mission to “inspire hope, empower people, and strengthen communities” reflects an unyielding belief in a "Valuable System for Valued People." Programs and supports provided by OCHN's service network are available at www.oaklandchn.org.

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