Genesee County

LaJuan Gibson brings more than two decades of experience in social work, behavioral health, and youth advocacy to his role as regional case manager for Prevent 2 Protect in Genesee County. A licensed clinical social worker in micro and macro practice with an extensive background in crisis intervention, prevention, and assessment, LaJuan has dedicated his career to supporting youth and families through education, mental health, and community-based systems. 

Before joining Prevent 2 Protect, LaJuan served as a center mental health consultant for Flint Genesee Job Corps, where he focused on prevention, early intervention, and helping students overcome barriers to success. He has also held leadership and clinical roles with Hurley Medical Center, Hope Network, the state of Michigan, and Whaley Children’s Center, among others—developing and overseeing programs that promote emotional wellness, recovery, and resilience. 

LaJuan earned his Master of Social Work from Wayne State University with a concentration in community practice and social action, and his Bachelor of Science in criminal justice from East Tennessee State University. He is trained in Trauma-Focused Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (TF-CBT), crisis stabilization, and adolescent substance use treatment, and is passionate about empowering youth to thrive through compassion, structure, and opportunity. 

In his work with Prevent 2 Protect, LaJuan partners with schools, families, and community organizations across Genesee County to strengthen behavioral threat assessment, early intervention, and coordinated support systems that keep students safe and connected. 

Rachel Butzin brings creativity, cultural connection, and years of experience in education and youth development to her role as regional mentor for Prevent 2 Protect in Genesee County. With a career spanning classroom teaching, mentorship, and community engagement, Rachel is passionate about helping young people build confidence, resilience, and a strong sense of identity. 

Earlier in her career, she served as a professional teaching parent with the Grand Traverse Band of Ottawa and Chippewa, supporting at-risk and adjudicated youth through culturally grounded mentorship and education.  Later, while serving as an art teacher at Gardner International Magnet School and Post Oak Academy in the Lansing School District, Rachel taught students from kindergarten through eighth grade and promoted community connections through the arts. She previously worked as an educator and director of the Artist in Residence Program at St. Joseph’s Indian School, leading cultural programming and outreach supported by the South Dakota Arts Council.  

Rachel holds a Bachelor of Arts in interdisciplinary studies in social science from Michigan State University, with specializations in Native American Studies, Latino/Chicano Studies, and Environmental Justice. She has a Graduate Teaching Certificate from the University of South Dakota. She was awarded the NASA South Dakota Space Grant two years in a row. Rachel is currently working towards a Master’s in Social Work from Michigan State University. 

In her role with Prevent 2 Protect, Rachel mentors youth across Genesee County, helping schools and families build positive relationships, celebrate culture, and foster safe, supportive environments where every student can thrive.