Oakland County Executive Dave Coulter on Tuesday announced a $3 million pledge from the Penske Family Foundation to support the county’s Integrated Care Center in Pontiac. This contribution will enhance access to critical mental health resources and wrap-around services regardless of their ability to pay.
“The mental health crisis facing our community demands comprehensive action,” said Coulter. “This clinic represents our commitment to ensuring that no resident or first responder is left behind when it comes to accessing the care they need. The Penske Family Foundation’s generous support will help us expand services and meet the growing need for immediate and integrated care.”
The permanent facility, expected to open in February 2025, will be located at the former Sarah J. Weber Media Arts Academy on Woodward Avenue. The clinic, currently operating in a temporary location in downtown Pontiac, is led by Honor Community Health in partnership with Oakland County, Oakland Community Health Network, Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency, and Trinity Health.
Roger Penske, chairperson of Penske Corporation, highlighted the importance of addressing mental health needs in the community.
“Mental health care is a critical component of a healthy society,” said Penske. “This clinic will provide a lifeline to individuals and families in Oakland County – including first responders - ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need during their most challenging moments.”
Since its soft launch in May 2024, the clinic has already begun transforming care delivery in Oakland County. More than 850 patients, including many from Pontiac, accessed primary and mental health care services at the clinic. The diverse patient population reflects the need for expanded access to care:
• Nearly half of the patients spoke Spanish
• More than 63 percent were women
• 25 percent were uninsured
Dr. Nik Hemady, chief medical officer of Honor Community Health, emphasized the importance of the clinic’s integrated approach.
“By combining primary care with behavioral health services, we can address the full spectrum of patient needs in one location. This is not just about treating symptoms; it’s about improving lives,” Hemady said.
Dana Lasenby, CEO of Oakland Community Health Network, added, “The collaboration between public and private partners on this initiative is a model for how we can expand access to mental health care while reducing barriers such as cost and stigma.”
The Integrated Care Center will provide more than mental health services. Patients will benefit from wrap-around services offered by the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA), including assistance with housing, nutrition and employment resources.
Deputy County Executive Madiha Tariq emphasized the holistic approach of the clinic.
“This is more than a health center - it’s a community hub where residents can access critical resources that promote stability and well-being,” she said.
The $3 million pledge by Penske will bolster the services provided by the Integrated Care Center.
In his 2023 State of the County address, Coulter outlined his vision for this center as part of a broader strategy to address the rising number of adults experiencing mental health crises.
“This clinic will be a lifeline,” Coulter said. “With the help of partners like Penske Family Foundation, Honor Community Health and Oakland Community Health Network we are creating a model for accessible, integrated care that puts people first.”
“The mental health crisis facing our community demands comprehensive action,” said Coulter. “This clinic represents our commitment to ensuring that no resident or first responder is left behind when it comes to accessing the care they need. The Penske Family Foundation’s generous support will help us expand services and meet the growing need for immediate and integrated care.”
The permanent facility, expected to open in February 2025, will be located at the former Sarah J. Weber Media Arts Academy on Woodward Avenue. The clinic, currently operating in a temporary location in downtown Pontiac, is led by Honor Community Health in partnership with Oakland County, Oakland Community Health Network, Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency, and Trinity Health.
Roger Penske, chairperson of Penske Corporation, highlighted the importance of addressing mental health needs in the community.
“Mental health care is a critical component of a healthy society,” said Penske. “This clinic will provide a lifeline to individuals and families in Oakland County – including first responders - ensuring they have access to the resources and support they need during their most challenging moments.”
Since its soft launch in May 2024, the clinic has already begun transforming care delivery in Oakland County. More than 850 patients, including many from Pontiac, accessed primary and mental health care services at the clinic. The diverse patient population reflects the need for expanded access to care:
• Nearly half of the patients spoke Spanish
• More than 63 percent were women
• 25 percent were uninsured
Dr. Nik Hemady, chief medical officer of Honor Community Health, emphasized the importance of the clinic’s integrated approach.
“By combining primary care with behavioral health services, we can address the full spectrum of patient needs in one location. This is not just about treating symptoms; it’s about improving lives,” Hemady said.
Dana Lasenby, CEO of Oakland Community Health Network, added, “The collaboration between public and private partners on this initiative is a model for how we can expand access to mental health care while reducing barriers such as cost and stigma.”
The Integrated Care Center will provide more than mental health services. Patients will benefit from wrap-around services offered by the Oakland Livingston Human Services Agency (OLHSA), including assistance with housing, nutrition and employment resources.
Deputy County Executive Madiha Tariq emphasized the holistic approach of the clinic.
“This is more than a health center - it’s a community hub where residents can access critical resources that promote stability and well-being,” she said.
The $3 million pledge by Penske will bolster the services provided by the Integrated Care Center.
In his 2023 State of the County address, Coulter outlined his vision for this center as part of a broader strategy to address the rising number of adults experiencing mental health crises.
“This clinic will be a lifeline,” Coulter said. “With the help of partners like Penske Family Foundation, Honor Community Health and Oakland Community Health Network we are creating a model for accessible, integrated care that puts people first.”
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