COMMUNITY DIFFERENCE
NEWSLETTER
Joe’s farewell message to the community
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June 25
Beer Pairing
Aeonian
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As I sit down to write these final words, emotions swirl within me. The time has come to say goodbye to this chapter of my life which has been nothing short of transformative My tenure at Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health (C&A) has been a profound journey, marked by trials, triumphs and, above all, unwavering dedication. Stepping into the role of CEO all those years ago, I knew the road ahead would have challenges. The shoes I had to fill were not just large; they were monumental, worn by a predecessor who had dedicated over three decades to this noble cause, Mike Johnson With each obstacle encountered, I found myself fueled by an unyielding passion to make a difference for the 4,000 children entrusted to our care.
The early years were far from smooth sailing We weathered storms of turnover, navigated the turbulent waves of transitioning to new systems and faced the daunting unknown of a global pandemic head-on. Amidst the chaos, our resolve remained unshaken. We rose to meet each challenge with tenacity and innovation, forging ahead with a singular focus: to serve our clients with unwavering dedication.
Reflecting on the journey over the past nine years fills me with an indescribable sense of pride. Together, as a team, we have achieved feats beyond measure. From navigating the shifting tides of behavioral health reform to extending our reach to those in need, we have left an indelible mark on the lives of thousands of children and families
But none of this would have been possible without the steadfast support of our funders, the guidance of our board members, the
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wisdom of my mentors (especially Joni Close) and the tireless dedication of our staff. To each and every one of you, I owe an immeasurable debt of gratitude. You have been the wind beneath our sails, propelling us forward even in the darkest of times.
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As I prepare to bid farewell to C&A, I am filled with a variety of emotions. There is sadness in parting ways with an institution that has become a second home, a family. Yet, there is also a profound sense of gratitude for the journey we have shared, the lives we have touched and the legacy we leave behind.
Though my time with C&A may be drawing to a close, the memories we have created together will forever remain etched in my heart. I may be saying goodbye, but I know that our paths will cross again.
In closing, I extend my deepest thanks to each and every one of you who has made this journey possible You are the true heroes, the unsung champions of our community. As I embark on a new chapter of my life, I do so with the knowledge that I carry a piece of C&A with me. C&A is in my DNA.
With heartfelt gratitude and boundless optimism for the future, Joe
Let Your Light Shine Welcomes Sponsors
The Repository 19th Annual Let Your Light Shine - Tropical Paradise presented by the Massillon Eagles F.O.E #190 is taking place Sept. 21 at the DoubleTree by Hilton Downtown Canton. As the event draws closer, C&A is grateful for the sponsorships the agency has received, including the Canton Repository, Massillon Eagles F.O.E #190, Rotary Club of Plain Township, PPi Graphics, Schauer Group, Pro Football Hall of Fame, Aultman/Aultcare, Joe French, JRC and Ellsworth Auto Body.
INTHIS ISSUE: Events
C&A sold out of
adopted ducks for annual Duck Derby
JOE’S FAREWELL
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The Q-92 fourth annual Duck Derby presented by Steve & Lisa Gregory took place May 18 at Eastwoods Park in North Canton. The in-person event featured a duck race that lasted just over one minute due to rapid running current Guests were able to enjoy refreshments, such as Ro’s ice cream and pizza. Kid-friendly activities were provided by the agency’s prevention team. Prizes were awarded for first, second and t across the finish line received a pizza gift
First Place: Dr. Mike McCabe
Second Place: Dr. Mike McCabe
Third Place: Sue Dedmon
Last Duck: Xavier Anzaldi
Final school suppors agency’s Jar g
Marlington Local Schools was the final school district to collect change for C&A’s Jars of Change initiative. The campaign ran May 6 to 10 More than 20 elementary classrooms participated, and raised more than $500 The class that raised the most money won a donut party Elementary students were given a positive affirmation chip, and the agency’s prevention staff developed 10 mental health mini lessons for teachers to use to further promote positive mental health.
This year’s initiative raised more than $5,200 In addition to Marlington, T\this year’s participating school districts were Alliance City, Plain and Sandy Valley Local Schools.
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Agency News
Beer Pairing
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C&A is partnering with Aeonian Brewing Co., 120 W. Chestnut St., Alliance, to host a beer pairing event on June 25 Brandon Benson, co-owner of the brewery, is leading the event The brewery is located in one of Alliance’s oldest buildings, a historic mill, and guests will be taken on a tour throughout the facility to learn about the history and brewing process. Attendees will also enjoy three beer tastings complemented by food pairings. Tickets are $50 and can be purchased here
Plain Rotary Check Presentation
The Rotary Club of Plain Township presented C&A with a ceremonial $20,000 check at its June 5 meeting at Chateau Michelle This past April, the Rotary Club of Plain held their annual Reverse Raffle on April 13. This year, the Rotary Club of Plain Township designated C&A as the beneficiary of the event. The funds will go to support the programs and services of the 4,100 clients C&A sees each year.
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In the Community
Joe French participates in Early Childhood Panel discussion
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health
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CEO Joe French was a panelist on Groundwork Ohio’s Roadshow Listening Tour The tour highlighted issues facing Ohio’s youngest citizens. Other panelists included Early Childhood Resource Center Executive Director Angela Moses and United Way of Greater Stark County Vice President of Community Impact
Adrianne Price The panel was moderated by PNC Regional Bank President Joe Luckring
Four C&A staff members recognized
On May 3, NAMI and StarkMHAR held their Notable Names 2024 Awards at First Christian Church in Canton. The event focused on honoring mental health heroes in the community. Four C&A employees were recognized and received awards, including Larissa Haring, Dr Robert Willoughby, Chandra Piatt and Sally Sutterfield. They were each awarded Professional of the Year.
C&A participates at Goodwill Resource Fair
C&A’s Mission Advancement department attended the Goodwill Community Resource Fair on May 2. The event was safety-themed and open to the public. More than 30 local agencies participated in this event. Additionally, multiple safety workshops were held throughout the event, ranging from de-escalation to food safety.
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In the Community
C&A attends Massillon safety day
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Child and Adolescent Behavioral Health was represented at the Community Safety Day in Massillon by Riley Pullen and Taylor Pfister on May 18 The free outdoor event featured agencies that provide a variety of services, including the YMCA, library, police department and more.
C&A participates by attending Goodwill Community Breakfast
The Mission Advancement department attended the Goodwill Community Breakfast at the Pro Football of Fame on May 23 to celebrate excellence among Goodwill staff, participants and community partners Sandy Dukat, gold medalist Paralympian, was the keynote speaker and provided an inspiring story that highlighted taking advantage of opportunities.
C&A has two graduates of Leadership Stark Co. Spotlight
Rochelle King, school-based therapist, and Emily Willis, mission advancement assistant, graduated from the Leadership Stark County Spring 2024 Spotlight Program on May 21. They were awarded their certificates during a ceremony at the Canton Museum of Art.
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News
Student Mental Health Champions spotlighted on video board
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Stark County Schools Mental Health Week ran May 6 through 10. Each year, schools select a student to become a Student Mental Health Champion. The champions then come together to create a unity video The theme of this year’s video was ‘’You Got This’’ The unity video and Athletes Strong for Mental Health video were then played at Centennial Plaza and shared across social media.
Student Mental Health Champions featured in panel discussion
Student Mental Health Champions from Canton Central Catholic, Massillon, Sandy Valley and Canton City Schools participated in a panel discussion for Mental Health Week. The panel was created to share student perspectives on mental health in Stark County The panel was moderated by C&A Trauma Led Specialist Mary Kreitz. Jacki Power, Canton City Schools broadcast media teacher, hosted the discussion and providing the perspectives of a parent and teacher. Watch the panel here.
C&A sponsors and has booth at Stark Pride
C&A attended the Stark Pride festival on June 8 at Centinnal Plaza in downtown Canton At this year’s event, C&A engaged with visitors about the services the agency offers highlighting our support of the LGBTQ+ community. The agency was a bronze sponsor of this year’s event
Checking in With Yourself
Checking in with yourself helps you understand your emotional state. It can also help navigate stress, regulate your emotions and reduce reactivity. Here are a few questions to get started:
Am I taking care of myself?
Am I living a balanced life?
Is my daily schedule manageable?
Am I practicing enough self-care?
How am I feeling today?
What has been worrying me lately?
Am I providing my body with its basic needs?
Am I giving myself enough time to recharge?
How have I been sleeping?
How can I be kinder to myself?