People behind
the purpose.

Executive Director and Founder

John F. Akwetey

John Akwetey is the Executive Director and Founder of Southwest Michigan Recovery Center. He is an evaluation scientist and doctoral candidate in Interdisciplinary Evaluation at Western Michigan University, with a focus on healthcare systems, technology, impact measurement, and community-centered solutions.

John brings more than a decade of experience at the intersection of evaluation, research, health systems, and organizational development. He also serves as a statewide representative on the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services Community Information Exchange Advisory Committee’s Community Voice Subgroup, contributing to efforts that strengthen coordination between healthcare and social-service systems.

At SMRC, John provides strategic leadership for organizational development, partnerships, program design, and sustainability. He is committed to building a peer-led recovery organization that expands access to respectful, participant-centered recovery support, meaningful community connection, and employment-focused opportunities for people in recovery.

Administrative Officer

Dori Lachance

Dori Lachance brings more than 15 years of experience in the recovery field and 16 years of personal recovery experience to Southwest Michigan Recovery Center. She previously served as an Administrative Supervisor with Gilmore Community Healing Center and Community Healing Centers. Dori became a Certified Peer Recovery Coach in February 2026.

As SMRC’s Administrative Officer, Dori supports the organization’s operations and helps create a welcoming, organized foundation for recovery services. She is passionate about helping people discover resources, recognize their strengths, and pursue the goals that matter most to them. Dori believes that recovery is strengthened when people are empowered to build on their hopes, skills, and potential.

Financial Officer

Mariam Bertapelle

Mariam Bertapelle serves as Financial Officer for Southwest Michigan Recovery Center. She holds a Master of Business Administration from Western Michigan University and an undergraduate degree in Commerce from Fourah Bay College.

With professional experience in human resources and finance, Mariam brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to SMRC’s financial stewardship and organizational operations. She supports accurate recordkeeping, responsible grant administration, and strong internal systems that help SMRC grow with accountability and purpose. Outside of work, Mariam enjoys reading, braiding hair, crocheting, and listening to music.

Program Coordinator

Thomas B. Kannegieter III

Thomas B. Kannegieter III serves as Program Coordinator for Southwest Michigan Recovery Center. He brings lived experience in recovery, a background in the construction trades, and a deep commitment to helping people build practical pathways toward stability, purpose, and connection.

Thomas understands the importance of having meaningful opportunities, supportive relationships, and usable skills during a recovery journey. His experience has shaped his commitment to ensuring that no one has to navigate recovery alone. At SMRC, he helps guide program development, partnership-building, and employment-focused supports that connect people with resources, encouragement, and opportunities to pursue their own goals.

A father and grandfather, Thomas is continuing to work toward peer-support certification and is committed to walking alongside people in recovery with respect, hope, and practical support.