Caring for Chippewa, Mackinac, and Schoolcraft Counties
For generations, the communities of Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula have looked out for one another. At Hiawatha Behavioral Health, that same spirit of care and connection is at the heart of everything we do. Proudly serving Chippewa, Mackinac, and Schoolcraft County, we provide compassionate, professional behavioral health services to individuals and families across the region.
ABOUT US
Strengthening Lives Across the Eastern U.P.
Hiawatha Behavioral Health (HBH) was formed on October 1, 1997, through the merger of the Eastern Upper Peninsula and Schoolcraft County Community Mental Health Boards. Today, we're guided by a 12-member Board of Directors with equal representation from all three counties, ensuring local voices help shape local care.
Hiawatha Behavioral Health is committed to serving everyone. Services are available regardless of race, color, nationality, religious or political belief, gender, age, disability, sexual orientation, or ability to pay. This commitment ensures that every person in the Eastern Upper Peninsula has access to the support and care they deserve when they need it most. Programs and services are partially funded by the Michigan Department of Community Health, helping HBH continue its mission of accessible, community-based care.
At its core, Hiawatha Behavioral Health is more than a provider. We're a partner, a resource, and a trusted part of the communities we serve, working every day to strengthen lives, support recovery, and bring hope to the Eastern Upper Peninsula.
Mission
To enhance mental wellbeing and recovery through accessible, compassionate care, and empowerment.
Vision
Hiawatha Behavioral Health envisions a community where all individuals and their families can realize their potential and fulfill their dreams, where stigma and discrimination against those with mental health issues does not exist.
Board Members
We are grateful for the leadership and service of our Board of Directors. Their guidance and commitment help ensure Hiawatha Behavioral Health continues to serve our communities with integrity, compassion, and accountability.
Executive Committee
Jay Martin, Chairperson • Schoolcraft County
Ron Meister, Vice-Chairperson • Chippewa County
Fred Feleppa, Secretary • Mackinac County
George Ecclesine, Treasurer • Schoolcraft County
Members
Ivan Gable, Member • Chippewa County
Jennifer Hinde, Member • Chippewa County
Zara Masood, Member • Chippewa County
Michael Patrick, Member • Mackinac County
Diane Patrick, Member • Mackinac County
Craig Reiter, Member • Schoolcraft County
Jaime Ziemba, Member • Schoolcraft County
Board Meetings
The regular meetings of the Hiawatha Behavioral Health Authority Board will be held the fourth Monday, of each month at 6:30 p.m. unless otherwise noted, with board members attending via teleconference from their home community HBH Office. All members will be in attendance at one location as designated location on a quarterly basis in March, June and September.
2026 Board Schedule
• April 27, 2026 • 6:30pm – Teleconference
• May 26, 2026 • 6:30pm – Teleconference
• June 22, 2026 • 6:30pm – Mackinac
• July 27, 2026 • 6:30pm – Teleconference
• August 24, 2026 • 6:30pm – Teleconference
• September 28, 2026 • 6:30pm – Chippewa
• October 26, 2026 • 6:30pm – Teleconference
These are standing meeting dates and may change from time to time; therefore, the public is advised to call HBH at 1-800-839-9443 or check our website at www.hbhcmh.org to verify a meeting date and time.
Committee Schedule
Personnel – Quarterly - 1st Monday Feb/May/Aug/Nov at 4:00pm – Teleconference
Finance – Wednesday prior to the Board meeting at 5:00pm – Teleconference
Program/Planning – Quarterly – 2nd Monday Feb/May/Aug/Nov at 4:30pm-Teleconference
Building/Grounds –Quarterly – 2nd Tuesday Jan/April/May/July/Oct at 5:00pm- Teleconference
Executive – Thursday prior to the Board meeting at 4:00pm – Teleconference
Recipient Rights – Meets quarterly – Teleconference
2026 Board Meeting Minutes
For archived meeting minutes, agendas, or board information, please contact Jenni Sweet at 906-635-3707, or via email at jsweet@hbhcmh.org, with your request.
| January 2026 | Meeting Minutes |
| February 2026 | Meeting Minutes |
| March 2026 | Meeting Minutes |
| April 2026 | Meeting Minutes |
| May 2026 | Meeting Minutes |
Hiawatha Behavioral Health is accredited by CARF. CARF states that it “is an independent, nonprofit organization focused on advancing the quality of services you use to meet your needs for the best possible outcomes. CARF provides accreditation services worldwide at the request of health and human service providers. Whether you are seeking rehabilitation for a disability, treatment for addiction and substance abuse, home and community services, retirement living, or other health and human services, you can have confidence in your choice. Providers that meet our standards have demonstrated their commitment to being among the best available.”