Hope,
Happiness & Opportunity
COMMUNITY DIFFERENCE
UPDATED PREVENTION PROGRAM SPACE
Exciting updates from Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health (C&A) Prevention Program! We’re thrilled to announce the unveiling of the newly redesigned prevention space! This updated area is designed to be inviting and resource-rich, featuring dedicated zones for mental health education and interactive workshops. These enhancements were made possible by the Early Childhood Mental Health R&R grant.
"The new space is AMAZING!” said Marissa Cooney, behavioral health prevention supervisor, “It combines a professional atmosphere with a modern, collaborative workspace. With the addition of a "maker space", we are equipped to run meetings and small groups while still maintaining individual work stations for C&A staff. The space is truly fantastic!”
The prevention program is committed to serving our community, schools, preschools, daycares and families by fostering resilience and preventing substance use and mental health issues. The focus is on equipping individuals with the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary to make safe and healthy choices that are developmentally appropriate. Substance use and mental health disorders can significantly impact daily life, affecting work, family interactions and overall functioning. These conditions are among the leading causes of disabilities in the United States and can lead to serious chronic health issues, including diabetes and heart disease. By prioritizing prevention, we aim to safeguard both behavioral and physical health, ensuring a brighter, healthier future for our community.
Prevention Program continued on page 3
THIS ISSUE
OCTOBER 2024 | ISSUE 10
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health
FROM THE DESK OF THE CEO
Dear Mission Builders,
Recently, I had the opportunity to speak at C&A’s annual Convocation Day - a day full of training for all C&A staff. When addressing the room of mission builders, I could only thank them for the hard work they put towards our agency every day. I would like to share with you how I addressed our staff on this day:
I want to take a moment to express my sincere gratitude to each one of you for the incredible work you do every day. The dedication and commitment you have to C&A’s mission does not go unnoticed. You are the mission builders—through your every interaction, kind word, and act of care, you help create a positive impact in the lives of the children and families we serve.
As I reflect on our organization and what makes it truly special, I am reminded that it goes beyond the critical services we provide and the professional expertise we bring. What truly defines us is our heart—the way we come together as a community dedicated to helping one another.
Each of you chose this path because you wanted to make a difference. You stepped into this role out of a deep desire to support those facing challenges and to provide opportunities where they may not exist. Your compassion and commitment are what fuel our mission, and it is important that we never lose sight of that.
In the hustle of daily tasks, whether it’s navigating paperwork, attending meetings or overcoming obstacles—it's easy to become overwhelmed and lose sight of our core purpose. However, I encourage all of us to stay focused on why we are here and the profound impact we are making on the children and families of those who we serve. When we center our efforts around our mission of helping people, we not only fulfill our daily responsibilities but thrive as an organization.
So today, I want to remind us of all of that simple truth: if we focus on helping each other, if we keep the mission at the forefront, we’ll continue to make a lasting impact on the lives of young people. Let’s not lose sight of why we’re here. You are all incredible mission builders, and together, we are building something that truly matters.
Thank you for being part of this incredible journey, and for always building our mission.
QUICK LINKS
WHAT IS THE PREVENTION PROGRAM?
The Prevention Program at C&A is dedicated to building resilience in our community, schools, preschools, daycares and families. The goal is to prevent the onset of substance use and mental health issues by equipping individuals with the knowledge, attitudes and skills necessary for making safe, healthy choices.
Substance use and mental health disorders can significantly disrupt daily life and are leading causes of disability in the U.S. Furthermore, these issues can lead to chronic health conditions such as diabetes and heart disease. By focusing on prevention, we aim to enhance both behavioral and physical health outcomes for children and families.
Our program includes services targeting early childhood development through the Early Childhood Mental Health Consultation (ECMHC), which supports social and emotional growth in children ages birth to six. Through these services, we strive to empower individuals and families, creating a healthier, more resilient community.
Overview of Prevention Programs:
All Stars Core: Research-based initiative for middle school studen promoting positive norms to avoid risky behaviors. Contact prevention team for details.
Coping and Support Training (CAST): Evidence-based program for high school students aimed at reducing substance use, anxiety, and depression while enhancing well-being and school performance.
Incredible Years: Uses Dina Dinosaur curriculum to foster social, emotional, and academic skills in young children th activities.
LifeSkills Training: Curriculum enhancing self-esteem, life skills, and management. Visit our website for details.
OPEPP: Free program reducing preschool expulsions, providi support and resources for at-risk children. Call (844) 678-2227 for info.
Positive Parenting Program (Triple P): Support for families with children ages 0-16 to prevent and manage behavioral issues. Programming page or call 330-454-7917.
Stark County Youth Led Prevention (SCYLP): Community-driven initiative where youth lead activities promoting healthy choices among peers.
Too Good: Elementary curriculum for healthy living through fu focusing on social skills like goal setting and decision making.
C&A AND SHIPLEY CHILD HEALTH CLINIC HOST SUCCESSFUL OPEN HOUSE
On Oct. 17, C&A was thrilled to partner with Shipley Child Health Clinic for a special open house event at the Shipley office - 919 Second St. N.E., Canton. This collaborative gathering aimed to showcase the vital services and programs offered by both organizations, all under one roof.
ttendees enjoyed an engaging evening filled with opportunities to explore the diverse offerings of each agency. Whether they were interested in health services, community programs, or simply wanted to learn more about our missions, there was something for everyone.
Guests enjoyed a short tour of each agency provided programs hosted at Shipley, the Trauma Informed Day and guests also toured the Shipley Child Health Cli
Thank you to everyone who joined us for this succes
OCTOBER 2024 | ISSUE 10
CONVOCATION DAY
Child & Adolescent Behavioral Health
On Oct. 14, C&A celebrated its annual convocation at the Kent State UniversityStark Campus Conference Center, located at 6200 Frank Road N.W., Canton. Employees gathered for a day rich in learning, connection and community spirit.
The event kicked off with a warm welcome from Mike Gallina, board assistant treasurer, who discussed “Creating a Positive Work Environment.” Melissa Coultas, C&A chief executive officer, then introduced the concept of Mission Builders, and Jodi Santillo, C&A chief operating officer, provided insights into the GRACE project. Each of C&A’s vendors delivered brief messages, and the United Way campaign officially launched, setting a tone of inspiration and collaboration among staff.
The training agenda featured a range of valuable full and breakout sessions for all staff, allowing clinical team members to earn Continuing Education Units.
The day was filled with engaging discussions and meaningful insights, reinforcing C&A’s commitment to personal and professional growt
QUICK LINKS
Melissa Coultas presenting at Convocation Day, “What does it mean to be a mission builder?”
Mike Gallina presenting at Convocation Day, “creating a positive work environment.”
Melissa Coultas and Mary Kreitz selecting winner of United Way donor raffle.
WELCOME, MELISSA!
On Sept. 26, staff and board members warmly welcomed C&A’s CEO, Melissa Coultas, at the Belden office located at 4641 Fulton Dr. N.W., Canton. This gathering provided a fantastic opportunity for team members to interact with Coultasinaninformalsetting,fosteringasenseofcollaboration.
Coultasmingledwithstaffandengagedinmeaningfulconversations,encouraging everyone to share their thoughts and ideas for future programming. Team members felt inspired as they discussed their visions for the future of C&A, exchanging insights and perspectives that could shape the organization's direction.
(left to right) - Melissa Coultas, Maureen Atalla and Josh Welch
(left to right) - Ashleigh Mussulin, Colin Christensen, Marissa Cooney, Amber Shaeffer, Jodi Boron and Shelly Nutter
(left to right) - Kim Cernansky, Meredith Skotschir, Marissa Cooney, Theresa Culver and Susan Brown (back) Stacy Remark and Melissa Coultas
NAMIWALKS
On Oct. 5, the NAMIWalks event took place at Pro Football Hall of Fame Village, Play Action Plaza2626 Fulton Dr. N.W., Canton. This inspiring walk raised awareness for mental health initiatives, supporting those affected by mental illness. Participants walked, volunteered and donated, making a meaningful difference in the community. C&A participated by sharing resources on our services. Together, we can break the stigma surrounding mental health and promote well-being for all. Thank you to everyone who contributed to this important cause and event!
FRONTLINE TO FREEDOM
A few members of the psychology department attended the Frontline to Freedom conference on Oct. 4. This annual event, organized by the Stark County Children's Network, focuses on raising awareness and addressing the critical issue of human trafficking. The conference provided valuable insights and discussions on prevention strategies, support services and community engagement in the fight against human trafficking. We are grateful for the opportunity to participate and contribute to this important cause.
QUICK LINKS
(front) - Delicia Norwood
(back, left to right) Ariel Fethiere, Josh Welch, Dr. Emma Farkas and Dr. Seandra Walker
Dan Mucci at NAMIWalks event
WELLNESSWeekly
Affirmation
Quick Mood Booster Journal Prompt
WHEN DO YOU FEEL THE MOST PEACEFUL?
WHY UNPLUG?
Taking a break from social media offers several significant benefits for mental and emotional wellbeing. It can reduce feelings of stress and anxiety by minimizing exposure to negative news, comparison, and online conflict. Disconnecting allows you to reclaim time for activities that enhance personal fulfillment and productivity, fostering better focus and creativity. A break can also improve sleep quality, as reduced screen time before bed helps regulate sleep patterns.
TIPS FOR TAKING A SOCIAL MEDIABREAK:
Remove Temptations: Log out of social media accounts or delete apps from your phone to reduce the temptation to check them impulsively.
Find Alternatives: Use the time you would normally spend on social media to engage in other activities, such as reading, exercising, or pursuing hobbies.