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UNITY Networks

A local model for connecting prevention, referrals, and ongoing support.

  • UNITY Networks are place-based hubs that bring together referral partners, case coordination, prevention programming, and specialized community services. Each Network is shaped around local needs and works with organizations already serving the community.
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 Why UNITY Networks Exist 

Young people may need help with housing, work, education, health, legal issues, or other challenges at the same time. That can mean contacting several organizations, completing separate intake processes, and figuring out how each service fits together.

UNITY Networks are designed to add one consistent point of coordination: a place where referrals can begin, priorities can be organized, and someone stays involved as a young person connects with the services they need.

How the Model Works

Referral Pathways

 Local organizations identify young people who may benefit from support and connect them to the Network through a clear referral process. 

Case Coordination

Staff help participants identify priorities, organize next steps, and stay connected as they move between services.

Partner-Based Services

Specialized partners provide services such as housing, healthcare, education, employment, and legal support. The Network coordinates access to that expertise.

Prevention Programming

Networks can host workshops, groups, and skill-building activities based on the needs of the young people and community they serve.

Built Around Local Expertise 

 UNITY Networks work with organizations that already know their communities and provide specialized services. The Network adds a clear referral process, ongoing case coordination, and follow-through while local partners continue providing services within their areas of expertise. 

UNITY Detroit

The first UNITY Network is taking shape in Detroit.

UNITY Detroit is the first implementation of the UNITY Network model. It is being developed as a referral-based prevention hub for young adults ages 18–21, with case management, individualized planning, coordinated referrals, prevention programming, and connections to specialized partner services.

The program is currently in development and will begin accepting referrals once the staff, systems, partnerships, and facility needed to serve participants are ready.

Explore UNITY Detroit
Who can partner with UNITY Networks?

Partners may include schools, youth-serving organizations, housing providers, workforce programs, healthcare and behavioral health providers, legal services, public agencies, survivor-support organizations, and other community-based organizations. The mix of partners will reflect the needs and resources of each community. 

How do UNITY Networks coordinate services?

 Network staff maintain contact with participants, help organize priorities, coordinate referrals, and follow what happens after a connection is made. Specialized partners continue to provide services within their areas of expertise. 

Can UNITY Networks be adapted to different communities?

 Yes. The core model centers on referrals, case coordination, prevention programming, and strong service partnerships. The specific organizations, programming, and implementation approach should reflect local needs and existing resources. 

How can an organization explore a partnership?

Organizations interested in referral partnerships, service coordination, local programming, or future Network development can contact UNITY Prevention to begin a conversation.

Interested in the UNITY Network Model?

Discuss a Partnership