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In recognition of Mental Health Month, messages of hope and support are being distributed throughout Portage County. A total of 3,000 coffee sleeves and 4,000 coasters featuring information about the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline are being placed in local coffee shops, bars, and fraternal and veterans’ organizations, including American Legion, VFW, and Eagles clubs. This initiative is led by the Mental Health & Recovery Board of Portage County, which received a grant from the

The Mental Health and Recovery Board is proud to announce the Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) honors for 2025 awarded by the Portage County Chief’s Association. Officer Thomas Ondecker, Streetsboro PD was named the CIT Officer of the Year; Kayla Michael, LSW, Coleman Health Services, was named the CIT Champion of the Year; and Disp. Kristen King was named CIT Dispatcher of the Year. Over the past year, Officer Ondecker has demonstrated exceptional compassion and applied the de

Law enforcement officers and community partners recently completed a 40-hour Crisis Intervention Team (CIT) training designed to improve how first responders recognize and respond to individuals experiencing mental health or substance use crises. The intensive, weeklong program provided participants with comprehensive instruction in de-escalation techniques, mental health awareness, and substance use disorder education. The training also emphasized collaboration and the use o

Prevention is our first line of defense in protecting our children from the harmful effects of drugs and alcohol. October has been declared Substance Use Prevention Month to raise awareness of the importance of prevention and let communities know that everyone can play a role. In Portage County, prevention begins in the classroom. Certified prevention specialists from Townhall II visit local schools to teach evidence-based programs designed to strengthen lifelong skills. Stud