ANTRIM COUNTY— Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers installed new custom metal American flag retirement boxes at both locations as part of an effort to support veterans and youth in Northern Michigan.
Advanced welding students Konyr Lewin, Mason Shiers and Jonny Cosier designed and built the boxes through the Career Tech program at East Jordan Middle/High School.
The project was completed under the leadership of welding instructor Dave Muladore with additional painting and finishing support from Toby Prevo Residential Services.
The boxes are located in the entryways of both the Bellaire and East Jordan health center locations. Community members can use them to drop off worn or damaged American flags.
To ensure the flags are retired in a dignified manner in accordance with the United States Flag Code, the health centers are partnering with local Girl Scout troops, the American Legion, Veterans Affairs offices and the Antrim County Veterans group.
“This project brought together two important areas of growth within our Behavioral Health programming, veterans and youth,” Cynthia Pepin, behavioral health director at Bellaire and East Jordan Family Health Centers, said. “It created an opportunity for students to use their talents in service to veterans and our community while also helping raise awareness about the importance of accessible veteran support services locally.”
The initiative aligns with the health centers’ participation in the ECRI SALUTE initiative, which helps healthcare organizations identify and address unique physical and mental health challenges veterans face, such as service-related injuries, toxic exposures and mental health concerns.
As part of the expansion of veteran-centered care, the health centers provide behavioral health services to veterans regardless of whether they are established primary care patients.
The organization accepts TRICARE insurance and works to improve access to local mental health services throughout Antrim and Charlevoix counties.
Each student involved brought unique goals to the project. Shiers plans to continue his welding education to pursue advanced certifications. Cosier regularly uses his skills on his family’s farm and Lewin values welding as a practical skill that promotes self-sufficiency.
More information about veteran services and community programs is available at EJFHC.org.