FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
11/6/2026
GENESEE HEALTH SYSTEM TO BE FEATURED ON “EMPOWERED HOSTED BY MEG RYAN” FOR YOUTH SUICIDE PREVENTION EFFORTS IN GENESEE COUNTY
Documentary Highlights County-Wide Mental Health Partnerships, School-Based Prevention Programs, and Student-Led Mental Health Awareness
GENESEE COUNTY, Michigan – Genesee Health System (GHS) is proud to announce its upcoming documentary segment on Empowered Hosted by Meg Ryan, highlighting the organization’s ongoing efforts to strengthen suicide prevention, mental health awareness, and early intervention throughout Genesee County.
GHS has partnered with the Genesee Intermediate School District and Grand Blanc Community Schools to highlight a county-wide focus on youth mental health through GHS K12 Partnerships. These collaborative efforts bring together school administrators, educators, families, and community partners to identify mental health needs, strengthen access to school-based behavioral health services, and create supportive environments where students feel empowered to seek help.
The segment includes interviews with Danis Russell, Chief Executive Officer of Genesee Health System, and Jen McCarty, Chief Operating Officer of Genesee Health System. Their perspectives highlight the need for funding to meet our community’s mental health needs, whole-person-centered care, and a range of services, leading to projects like K12 Partnerships.
The documentary breaks down our collaborative work with Dr. Steven Tunnicliff, Superintendent of Genesee Intermediate School District, and Dr. Trevor Alward, Superintendent of Grand Blanc Community Schools and the Hope Squad program, a school-based peer-to-peer suicide prevention program. Dr. Tunnicliff discusses the benefits of the GHS K12 Partnerships, while Dr. Alward highlights Grand Blanc Middle and High School Hope Squads, which include more than 200 student participants.
A 30-second commercial highlighting GHS K12 Partnerships was released on Genesee County media channels in July 2026, and the documentary ran nationwide across major networks through July 2027. Both videos can be viewed on the GHS YouTube Channel.
“We want there to be no wrong door for people to access services 24/7, 365,” said Danis Russell, GHS Chief Executive Officer. “Through partnerships like Hope Squad and other in-school programming, we are helping create opportunities for young people to recognize when someone may be struggling, connect with trusted adults, and understand that help is available. Our goal is to strengthen prevention efforts and ensure that no student or family feels alone when facing mental health challenges.”
Through education, prevention, and access to behavioral health services, GHS remains committed to strengthening youth suicide prevention efforts and connecting individuals and families to the resources they need.
To learn more about GHS K12 Partnerships, visit GHS K12 Partnerships.
Mental Health and Crisis Support
Individuals experiencing a mental health crisis can call Genesee Health System at (810) 257-3740 or text GHS to WEGOTU (934688) 24/7 for free behavioral health crisis triage, support, resources, and referrals to local services.
For additional information about GHS suicide prevention efforts, visit genhs.org/suicide-prevention/.
About Empowered Hosted by Meg Ryan
Empowered Hosted by Meg Ryan is a Public Television program dedicated to providing viewers with insightful and educational content designed to inspire informed action in their lives and communities. The program showcases organizations making a positive impact and offering pathways to enhanced well-being. Learn more at www.empoweredprogram.com.
About Genesee Health System
Genesee Health System provides services and support for individuals in Genesee County with mental health and/or substance use disorder treatment, intellectual disabilities, and primary health care needs. Learn more or get help now at genhs.org.
The program is funded by Genesee County Community Mental Health Millage funds. Your tax dollars at work.
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