Community
Integration
Gesher helps people across metro Detroit get involved in their community through a wide range of enrichment programs and activities.
At Gesher, we believe that a happy and healthy community is the result of happy and healthy individuals. That’s why we provide a wide range of community-based activities for individuals of all backgrounds and abilities. From cultural programs, to volunteering, to arts and music, to social inclusion, Gesher has something for everyone.
Get started today by learning about our programs below, or exploring upcoming community events
Community Engagement
Choices Program
Gesher’s Choices Program provides enriching activities for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities to help them stay active and involved in the community. Choices utilizes an individualized, person-centered planning model to best meet the interests and needs of each person. Choices participants determine their own activities, which can occur in a wide variety of community settings, in the facility, and even as part of daily virtual programs for individuals at home who desire vibrant social engagement.
Within Choices, the Caring Companions service provides a safe and secure environment for adults with disabilities and dementia, allowing them to engage in stimulating activities while maintaining their dignity and the highest level of functioning.
For more information, contact Susan Silva at [email protected] or
(248) 233-4331.
Arts, Music, and More
Creative Expressions Program
The Creative Expressions Program provides education, enrichment, cultural experiences, and professional arts opportunities for Gesher participants. This program collaborates with community partners to offer a wide variety of art-based classes and activities that include visual and performing arts, photography, sculpting, writing, poetry, etc. Participants often uncover new talents and create their own journey based on their individual interests. Creative Expressions also assists to further hone participant skills, show their work in galleries, performances, etc., and develop as entrepreneurs, if desired.
Activities may include lessons or individual/group activities at the Lois and Milton Y. Zussman Center, the Gesher Diem Building, the Gesher Frank Building, at our community partner locations, art galleries and fairs, community expos, and at other organizations or public settings. Creative Expressions is currently offered to Clubhouse members, Choices Program participants, Brown Center participants, and Vocational Skill Builders.
Click here to learn more about our artists!
For more information, contact Craig Nowak at [email protected] or
(248) 663-4345.
Community Support Services
Supports Coordination
The LIFE program in Oakland County & the Bridges program in Wayne County help individuals with disabilities pursue their interests, live more independently, and make important decisions. The program links participants with services including medical, social, vocational, educational, and community support services as well as assistance in obtaining legal representation, transportation, and respite care.
For more information, contact Laura Hearshen at [email protected] or
(248) 233-4244.
Support for Individuals Living With Dementia and Their Family Care Partners
Dorothy and Peter Brown Jewish Community Adult Day Program
The Dorothy & Peter Brown Jewish Community Adult Day Program is dedicated to supporting people living with dementia and their family care partners. The day program is focused on providing dignity and respect through engaging programming and socialization, provided in a safe and secure environment.
Participants benefit from individualized attention, socialization and recreation, therapeutic activities, creative expressions in music and art, health monitoring, nutritious Kosher meals and snacks, and spiritual and cultural support.
Families enjoy flexibile program hours, transportation services, a break from 24-hour care, and social work support services such as support groups and educational workshops.
The Adult Day Program is nonsectarian.
For more information contact our Social Worker at [email protected] or (248) 233-4392
Financial Capability and Education
Facing a financial crisis? Looking to purchase a home? Need help with a budget? We can help! Our HUD certified housing counselors work with individuals to develop a stronger understanding of basic financial concepts through the use of resources, trainings, workshops, and one-on-one meetings in order for them to achieve financial wellness. Our free services focus on:
- Credit education, including how to establish and manage credit
- Help for homeowners
- Budgeting and spending
- Debt management
- Savings
- How to avoid identity theft
For more information, contact [email protected] or
(248) 233-4299.
Homebuyer Education
Homebuyer Education is an approved Michigan State Housing Development Authority (MSHDA) course that helps potential homeowners learn everything they need to know regarding purchasing a home and ensures that a homebuyer will have a good understanding of their loan, the closing process, budgeting, recapture taxes, avoiding predatory lending and foreclosure. This includes mortgage prequalification, shopping for a home, and what borrowers need to qualify such as budgeting, credit and money management, and savings skills.
Participants that complete the entire course are provided a certification which is a requirement for borrowers using MSHDA’s Down Payment Assistance. $50 fee per household.
For more information, contact [email protected] or
(248) 233-4299.
Adult (55+) Engagement Opportunities
Encore 55+ Interest Groups
Gesher provides Encore Programming for active adults aged 55 and older. These programs are designed to engage participants more deeply with their community while providing mental stimulation, enjoyment, and opportunities to connect.
The Meeting Place: Do things you enjoy with others who have similar interests. Examples of affinity groups include book clubs, film discussion groups, and armchair travel. Do you enjoy cooking, crafting, nature walks, writing, card playing, or building? Let’s form a new group to connect and get the most out of life.
For more information, contact Joann Drasnin at [email protected] or (248) 233-4247.
Hear From Your Neighbors
Gesher has helped build my confidence so that I feel like I can do this. I want to thank everybody who helped make Gesher possible from the bottom of my heart because you have improved my life tremendously.
Yolanda L.
Upcoming Events
Professional Branding on Social Media
Life Skills & Education
Elevate your online presence! This workshop equips you with strategies to build a strong professional brand and stand out on social media.
Date and Time: Wednesday, August 7 at 10:00am
Location: Virtual
Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZ0rd-Coqj4rG9WvNiM0NgTeKPeKPkY0qZNQ
Lois and Milton Y. Zussman Center Open House
Life Skills & Education
THURSDAY, AUGUST 8, 2024 | 5 – 7 PM
Join us for an Open House at the NEW location of Gesher’s Lois and Milton Y. Zussman Center – home to Clubhouse for the Common Good and Creative Expressions – on Thursday, August 8, 2024. See our new space, which is double the size of our previous space, designed by and for individuals with mental health diagnoses who seek a welcoming and engaging community atmosphere where they can enjoy social and cultural activities, educational classes, culinary experiences, vocationally support, and volunteer opportunities.
Light Hors D’oeuvres served.
The Zussman Center is located at 10 Mile & Berg Rd. (Address sent upon RSVP.)
Please RSVP by August 5, 2024.
For more information, contact Lindsey Fox at [email protected] or 248.233.4343.
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Financial Peace of Mind: The Money Wellness and Financial Therapy Series, Financial Trauma (Part 2)
Life Skills & Education
This workshop aims to help participants understand financial trauma, including its causes, symptoms, treatments, and when and where to seek help. In Part 2 of the series, participants will learn how to identify money scripts, recognize the mental and physical health impacts, cultivate financial well-being, and heal from financial trauma.
Date and Time: August 9 at 1:00 pm
Location: Virtual
Registration: https://us06web.zoom.us/meeting/register/tZUrdOCopzosE921UidiyUc4vEZwe44EpNAC
Retirement Reemployment - Getting Back Into the Game
Life Skills & Education
This workshop dives deep into the exciting (and sometimes daunting) prospect of working after retirement. We’ll explore the key considerations for crafting a financially feasible, fulfilling, and fun return. This time, on your terms!
Date and Time: August 13th at 2:00pm
Registration: https://jlive.app/events/8097
For questions or more information, contact [email protected] or call 248-233-4288.
Resume Writing Workshop
Life Skills & Education
Join Gesher Human Services for a free Resume Writing Workshop by Certified Professional Resume Writers. Gain valuable tips and tools to write a dynamic resume.
There will be an opportunity to sign up for free 1-on-1 resume assistance at the conclusion of the workshop.
Date and Time: Wednesday, August 14 10:30am-12:00 pm
Location: Held in person at Gesher Human Services in Southfield.
Registration: https://jlive.app/events/8129
Registration is required.
Social and Cultural Enrichment
The Clubhouse for the Common Good
The Clubhouse for the Common Good, housed in the Lois and Milton Y. Zussman Center, provides a Clubhouse-designed setting based on the standards outlined by Clubhouse International. It was designed by and for individuals with a mental health diagnosis who seek a welcoming and engaging community atmosphere where they can enjoy social and cultural activities, educational classes, culinary experiences, vocational support, and volunteer opportunities.
Our ‘Clubhouse’ is a local community center that provide members with an environment that: