Our Mission

Navigating Care. Connecting Resources.

W.E. C.A.R.E.

Well-being and Equity  |  Collaborate  |  Adapt  |  Respect  |  Educate

Here at Health Net of West Michigan, we are working towards the goal of every person in Kent County receiving the care and resources they need to be as healthy as they desire. We advocate for more equitable social conditions, respect the dignity and choices of community members, and strive to have the knowledge, expertise, partnerships, and flexibility to address the concerns of those we serve.

Our Footprint

Health Net of West Michigan was born out of the need for a community healthcare “hub.” Originally part of programming housed at First Steps Kent, we have since expanded our influence throughout the state, codified our navigation approach, and connected people of all ages living in Kent County with resources to meet health-related social needs. Although we operate and serve those within Kent County, our impact is present across the region, resonating through training, resource navigation, and partnerships.


Our Expertise

Instead of using a deficit-based model where clients are seen as a “problem” to be solved, our model views our clients as whole people with existing skills, strengths, and the ability to problem solve. We serve community members using our Care Model©, a strengths-based framework that empowers clients through motivational interviewing and action planning to create their own goals based on them being the experts in their lives.


Our Approach

At Health Net, inclusion is our focus and we believe that everyone should have a voice at the table when decisions are made. We challenge community and systemic barriers preventing people from reaching their health goals and are responsive to community needs as they arise. Our goal is to provide every client with high-quality services and tailored resources to meet their specific needs.


Our Philosophy

At Health Net of West Michigan, we treat every client like a neighbor: with respect, understanding, and compassion. We see our clients as part of our community and work tirelessly to remove the stigma of seeking social services.


Meet Our Team

Funding and Partners

Health Net is grateful to receive financial support from a variety of sources, including donations, contracts, grants, and public funding from federal, state, and local agencies.

We're a great place to work.

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Job Listings

Our History

Kent County Community Health Improvement Plan (CHIP) specifies the development of a community healthcare “hub” and six months of planning begins.
2014Health Net of West Michigan is formed by re-purposing Kent Health Plan’s 501(c)(3) status. Kent Health Plan’s  “Plan B” coverage is continued and renamed “WellNet;” other programs include a health education curriculum, the Kent County Oral Health Coalition (KCOHC), FitKids360, and the Community Healthcare Access Program (CHAP). 2015 Together with other healthcare providers, Health Net begins a feasibility study for a Pay for Success model. The Coordinated Health Impact Alliance (CHIA), led by Health Net, begins. 2016 An internal committee of employees forms the Equity Team, focusing on expanding the knowledge of staff around topics related to equity, inclusion, and diversity.
2017 Health Net is the only organization in Michigan to be awarded the $4.51 million Accountable Health Communities (AHC) cooperative agreement through the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS). This funding expands Health Net’s capacity as Kent County’s bridge organization over the next five years. 2018-2019 Health Net receives funding via the Ready by Five Early Childhood Millage, allowing for the expansion of services for expectant families with children up to age six.
2020 Health Net announces Equity Officer Position to support equity efforts, made possible by the Kellogg Foundation grant.  2021Launch of WE CARE values and equity pledge to become an antiracist organization. 2022 Health Net wins a “Hometown Hero” award from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services and officially opens service eligibility to anyone living in Kent County, regardless of health coverage.  2023 Health Net externally launches Care Model© and supervisor training with the Ready by Five Network. 2024In partnership with Kent County Health Department and Kent County Essential Needs Task Force, Health Net is chosen to participate in the State of Michigan SDOH Hub pilots to formalize key partnerships for a food delivery service pilot.

Want to Speak with Someone?

We are here to help. Fill out our quick contact form below and our team will connect with you to get started!

(616) 726-8204Contact Form

Want to speak with someone?

We are here to help. Fill out our quick contact form below and we will get you in contact with the right person for you!

(616) 726-8204Contact Form

Want to help? Make a donation to help your Kent County community.

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