December 2023 Newsletter

Happy holidays from Ohio START! With 2023 coming to a close, we are proud to look back on all we have accomplished this year including national certification and 2 local certifications, the addition of a 6th cohort, and, above all, the difference that START has made for countless families across Ohio.

“I’m thankful for my struggle because without it I wouldn’t have stumbled across my strength.” - Alexandra Elle

From the Field: County Highlights

Ohio START Becomes First in the Nation to Achieve National Certification!

Gov. Mike DeWine’s office announced today that the Ohio START model is first in the nation to be nationally certified for its administration, training, technical assistance, and evaluation of the model. Since 2017, Ohio START has served more than 2,300 children and their families in 53 counties.

“Certification marks a monumental milestone, showcasing the Ohio START program's commitment to excellence in its approach, training, and support for families experiencing substance use disorders and child maltreatment,” said Kara Wente, director of the Ohio Department of Children and Youth. “As the first nationally certified program of its kind, it signifies a dedication to the highest standards and commitment to transforming the lives of those in need."

Certification could not have been achieved without the dedication of START teams from throughout the state. We are grateful for everyone who contributed to this important milestone!

Brown County Completes First Annual Certification Review

Brown County completed their first Annual Certification review. The review highlighted the agency’s ongoing commitment to improving outcomes for children and families affected by parental substance use and found the agency has continued to enhance services to families and strengthened their relationships with local community partners. Great work, Brown County! 

Butler County Celebrates Certification

Butler County START celebrated being the second Ohio county to achieve certification. START leadership, technical assistance consultants, and community partners gathered to acknowledge the accomplishments of Butler County START. The team is implementing the evidence-based model to fidelity and achieving positive outcomes for families affected by cooccurring child maltreatment and parental substance use disorder. 

Ohio START delivered a legislative briefing at the Ohio Statehouse to help legislators learn more about the model and it's positive impact on Ohio families struggling with SUD. Fawn Gadel, (Director of Ohio START) moderated a panel discussion featuring Cara Finney (Ongoing Services Manager, Fairfield County), Marina Pico-Herritt (Ohio START Caseworker, Fairfield County), and Laurel Ridenour (Family Peer Mentor, Medina County). The panel shared their firsthand experiences as members of START teams, underscored the model's unique approach compared to typical children services cases, and urged legislators to support Ohio START.

During the Ohio START Consortium at Ross County Children Services, Thrive joined the START leadership team in a panel discussion on recognizing and overcoming Imposter Syndrome, a crucial topic for personal and professional growth for family peer supporters. Sarah Hayden of Thrive offered her insights on the importance of support networks and breaking the stigma, drawing from her own lived experience.

Hayden shared, "For myself, having direct support from my management team, my Thrive mentor Josh, and even my kiddos support has helped me to recognize when I need to lean into the trust of those who obviously see something in me that qualifies me for the roles I have been able to be in. I believe in breaking the stigma and using my past lived experience to help show compassion and empathy to help model recovery, and encourage both clients I have serviced and family peer mentors I work with, that our past doesn't define us, and we can grow and be successful."

During PCSAO's Executive Membership Meeting of PCSAO, Ohio START regional managers Jennifer Millisor and Jen McClellan delivered a training session on the relationship between substance use and child protection, particularly in the context of Ohio's recent marijuana legislation. The audience consisted of children services administrators statewide with questions regarding the potential implications of these new laws on child protection.

The training covered topics including stigma, strategies for approaching families with sensitivity, and common concerns related to parental marijuana use, such as accidental exposure to children.

Amanda Redfern, Richland County

As a family peer mentor (FPM), Amanda has gone above and beyond for the Ohio START initiative, working with FPMs in other counties and allowing for county to county TA and shadowing. She works hard serving families and has eagerly assisted with the onboarding and training of other FPMs.

Success Story, Gallia County

The Gallia START team successfully closed a case this month, working with a wonderful mom who, through her sincerity and openness to help, made the process a pleasure. The mom is currently enrolled in a program to further her education. Pictured are David Leaphart (family peer mentor), Trinidy (mom), Baby Iris, and Kristin Browning (caseworker).

Share your success story to be featured in the next newsletter HERE.

Nominate an Ohio START staff member to be spotlighted HERE.