SEEDS
of Hope
Agency Newsletter | Summer 2026
One Step At A Time: Jacob’s Journey of Recovery and Hope Every Sunday evening in a garage in New Philadelphia, OH, Jacob Baker sets up tables, arranges chairs, and welcomes individuals seeking support through “Clean and Serene,” a 12-step meeting he founded after a severe snowstorm left many people in Tuscarawas County unable to travel to recovery meetings. What started to ensure people could access support has grown into one of the largest recovery meetings in the region. During the week, Jacob manages a local business while staying connected with more than 100 people each day, offering encouragement and support on their recovery journeys. His life today is one of purpose, service, and hope, but that wasn’t always his story. Jacob’s substance use began at 12 years old with marijuana. After a serious injury at 18 led to a prescription for opioid pain medication, his substance use escalated to include fentanyl.
At the same time, Jacob shared that he was navigating the challenges of an Asperger’s syndrome diagnosis and cervical dystonia, an extremely painful neurological condition. Despite these obstacles, Jacob found hope while caring for his terminally ill father, beginning his recovery through Medication-Assisted Treatment (MAT). But after his father’s passing, the weight of grief contributed to a relapse. His addiction unraveled nearly every aspect of his life, bringing legal, financial, and personal hardships, including his arrest. During a pre-sentencing interview with his parole officer, Jacob made a life-changing decision that changed everything: he admitted he needed help and asked for treatment. That decision was the first step toward rebuilding his life and brought him to OhioGuidestone’s Stillwater Crossing Men’s Residential Treatment Facility in continued on page 2
One Step At A Time: Jacob’s Journey of Recovery and Hope, continued from page 1
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FROM THE CEO
As summer comes to a close, we are celebrating a season of meaningful milestones at OhioGuidestone. Our teams have been busy wrapping up summer programs, supporting clients through transitions, and continuing to create pathways for growth, achievement, and lifelong success. This summer, we celebrated students at Snow School and graduates of our YouthBuild program, honoring their resilience, accomplishments, and bright futures ahead. We also continued to witness the impact of our services through stories of hope and recovery. In this issue you’ll meet Jacob, whose journey through our residential treatment program and recovery housing has led him to a place of purpose. Today, he leads a 12-step recovery group and supports others on their recovery journeys. Through our podcast Let’s Talk About It With OhioGuidestone, we continue important conversations about mental health with season two exploring suicide, self-harm, and prevention to help reduce stigma, open conversations, and share resources. As we look to the fall, I hope you’ll join us for OhioGuidestone’s Promise Run on September 26th at Wallace Lake in Berea or participate virtually in support of our clients’ taking steps toward their healthiest futures.
Brant Russell, President and CEO
Seeds of Hope | Summer 2026
Dennison, Ohio, where he became one of the new facility’s first residents. Having never experienced residential treatment before, Jacob arrived unsure of what to expect but determined to create a different future. At Stillwater Crossing, Jacob embraced every opportunity to heal and grow. Through treatment, counseling, and unwavering support from staff, he developed the skills and confidence needed to build a lasting foundation for recovery. His commitment continued after completing the program, even as he navigated new challenges, including caring for his mother, meeting legal obligations, and coping with the loss of his family’s home. When his mother entered long-term care, Jacob transitioned to OhioGuidestone’s Recovery Point recovery housing, where he found continued encouragement from House Manager Andy Lewis and Peer Recovery Supporter Taylor Ferl, whom Jacob proudly calls his “#1 fan.” Through each step of his journey, including residential treatment, Intensive Outpatient (IOP) services, counseling, case management, and recovery housing, Jacob has continued moving forward, one step at a time. His journey is a powerful reminder that recovery is not a single moment; it is a lifelong process supported by connection, compassion, and care. Today, Jacob shares a message of hope with others: “Recovery is not defined by where someone begins, but by the courage to ask for help and determination to continue moving forward.” Through treatment, perseverance, and the support of people who believed in him, Jacob transformed a life once defined by addiction into one rooted in purpose, hope, and the possibility of helping others do the same.
Watch Jacob’s Impactful Story Here
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Turning Awareness into Action: Saving Lives Through Suicide Prevention
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ONVERSATIONS ABOUT SUICIDE CAN BE DIFFICULT, BUT THEY CAN ALSO SAVE LIVES. At OhioGuidestone, we’re committed to turning awareness into action through prevention, early intervention, education, and compassionate care.
challenges escalate into a crisis. Students also have access to individual and group therapy, while youth experiencing an immediate behavioral health crisis can receive rapid, on-site support through Ohio’s Mobile Response and Stabilization Services (MRSS) by calling 988.
“We know the combination of prevention education, early intervention, and access to behavioral health services saves lives,” said Dr. Kathleen Kern, OhioGuidestone’s Chief Clinical Officer. “The earlier we recognize emotional pain and connect people to support, the more opportunities we have to strengthen hope and help individuals through moments of crisis.”
Suicide prevention begins with each of us by recognizing when something has changed in someone we care about. Warning signs can include withdrawing from family and friends, talking about hopelessness or death, giving away prized possessions, taking unusual risks, or noticeable changes in mood, sleep, or behavior. Dr. Kern encourages people to trust their instincts, ask caring, direct questions, and listen without judgment. Sometimes, simply letting someone know they are seen, heard, and not alone can be the first step toward hope and healing.
Dr. Kern explores this message in “Why Lifesaving Conversations Matter,” Season 2, Episode 1 of Let’s Talk About It With OhioGuidestone. In the episode, she discusses how recognizing the warning signs of suicide, having courageous conversations, and connecting people to care can make all the difference. Dr. Kern challenges us to react to someone experiencing emotional pain in the same way we would respond to their physical pain. Are you okay? How can I help you? The podcast is part of OhioGuidestone’s ongoing effort to reduce stigma, foster understanding, and equip families and communities with practical tools to support mental wellness.
Through programs like SOS, MRSS, our ReadyCare walk-in behavioral health clinics, and Let’s Talk About It With OhioGuidestone, we’re helping create a future where conversations about mental health lead to hope, healing, and life-saving support. Together with partners and supporters like you, we’re ensuring more Ohioans know that help is available and that no one has to face life’s challenges alone.
That commitment extends into communities across Ohio. In schools, our Signs of Suicide® (SOS) program combines education with confidential screenings that help identify students who may be struggling before
To learn more, visit our website at:
ohioguidestone.org/podcast
If you or someone you care about is struggling, call or text 988 to connect with trained crisis professionals at any time, day or night. For immediate, life-threatening emergencies, call 911. Talking about mental health can save lives, and every conversation matters. OhioGuidestone.org
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Seeds of Hope | Summer 2026
BUILDING NEW BEGINNINGS
Building Brighter Futures Through
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WENTY-EIGHT YOUNG ADULTS RECENTLY CELEBRATED AN IMPORTANT MILESTONE as they graduated from OhioGuidestone’s YouthBuild program, marking months of hard work, perseverance, and personal growth while taking the next step toward their goals.
Graduation is just the beginning. Each graduate will continue working with an OhioGuidestone career coach for another year as they pursue employment, apprenticeships, or higher education. We’re proud to celebrate their accomplishments and grateful to the supporters and partners who help make these lifechanging opportunities possible.
The graduating class included 13 students in the Construction track and 15 in the State Tested Nursing Assistant (STNA) track. During a ceremony at the Parma-Snow Branch of the Cuyahoga County Public Library, graduates were recognized for completing rigorous classroom instruction and hands-on training that prepared them for meaningful careers in highdemand fields. STNA graduates earned Certified Nursing Assistant certification, while Construction graduates completed OSHA 10 and NCCER Core certifications, building a strong foundation for careers in the skilled trades. Throughout the program, participants also had the opportunity to earn their GED or high school diploma through Penn Foster, helping remove barriers to longterm success. This year’s Construction cohort also left a lasting mark on the community by helping complete a Habitat for Humanity home for a local family. Their work demonstrates that the skills gained through YouthBuild not only transform the lives of participants but also strengthen the communities they call home.
Seeds of Hope | Summer 2026
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CELEBRATING OUR STUDENTS
Ending the Year on a High Note
at Snow School
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HE SOUNDS OF SINGING, LAUGHTER, AND APPLAUSE filled OhioGuidestone’s Snow School as students took center stage for their annual end-of-school-year concert, Symphony of Students. More than a celebration of the school year, the event showcased the confidence, creativity, and growth each student achieved along the way.
celebrating her birthday, by presenting her with flowers before leading the audience in a heartfelt rendition of “Happy Birthday.” Moved by the gesture, Barth shared that simply being surrounded by her students and hearing them sing was the greatest birthday gift she could have received. The moment beautifully reflected the trusting relationships and genuine care that define the Snow School community.
Held on OhioGuidestone’s youth residential campus in Berea, the concert featured vocal and instrumental performances that gave every student an opportunity to shine before an audience of family members, staff, and supporters.
The concert concluded with one final song celebrating everything the students had accomplished throughout the year. As they proudly sang, “It’s been a good year,” and spelled out Y-E-A-R one letter at a time, every note represented a challenge overcome, a new skill learned, and a reason to celebrate.
The Snow School serves children and adolescents ages 6 to 16 who live on OhioGuidestone’s residential treatment campus. Through a blend of classroom and online instruction, students continue their education in a structured, supportive environment while receiving comprehensive mental health treatment and care.
The standing ovation that followed was more than applause. It was a reminder to every student that they are seen, valued, and capable of great things. For the students of Snow School, it truly had been a very good Y-E-A-R.
The afternoon also included a touching surprise. Students honored their teacher, Mitzi Barth, who was
OhioGuidestone.org
Listen to the kids sing It’s Been A Good Year here!
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Seeds of Hope | Summer 2026
OUR COMMITMENT TO CARE
OhioGuidestone Earns COA Reaccreditation, Reaffirming Commitment to Quality Care OhioGuidestone has once again earned COA Accreditation, reaffirming our commitment to providing high-quality, compassionate care for individuals and families across Ohio.
In addition, the survey team praised OhioGuidestone’s commitment to quality, accountability, and continuous improvement. They highlighted our integrated, wraparound approach to care, welcoming environments, and the passion and compassion our staff bring to their work every day.
The COA Accreditation process evaluates the full scope of an organization’s operations, including governance, administration, and service delivery. Awarded on a four-year cycle, COA Accreditation is a nationally recognized mark of excellence for community-based health and human service organizations.
“Accreditation measures policies and processes, but what surveyors ultimately experience is an organization’s culture,” said Brant Russell, President and CEO of OhioGuidestone. “This reaccreditation reflects the extraordinary commitment of our team, whose compassion, professionalism, and unwavering focus on those we serve make our mission possible every day.”
Following a comprehensive review, COA surveyors commended OhioGuidestone for the dedication, professionalism, and heart demonstrated by our team. They noted that clients are truly at the center of everything we do, with dignity, respect, and client rights guiding every interaction. Surveyors also recognized the consistent use of evidence-based, trauma-informed care throughout our programs.
Our primary care services offer compassionate treatment options like annual wellness exams, management of chronic conditions, vaccines, referrals to specialists, and so much more to keep your overall well-being prioritized. Learn more about our primary care services at:
lorainhealthcenter.org Seeds of Hope | Summer 2026
WHERE NEW PATHS BEGIN
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Leadership That Strengthens Our Mission
Finding Calm With the
Strong leadership creates stronger communities, and we’re proud to celebrate two recent accomplishments of OhioGuidestone President and CEO Brant Russell that strengthen our mission and the communities we serve.
Life can feel overwhelming at times. Whether you’re balancing everyday responsibilities, navigating a stressful situation, or finding it difficult to quiet racing thoughts, taking a moment to pause can make a meaningful difference.
This summer, Russell graduated from the Cleveland Leadership Center’s premier Leadership Cleveland program, where he joined senior leaders from business, government, education, and the nonprofit sector to address regional challenges and build collaborative partnerships. Those relationships strengthen OhioGuidestone’s ability to expand access to care and better serve children, adults, and families across Ohio. Continuing that investment in leadership, Chief of Staff Mary Stiles has been selected for the Leadership Cleveland Class of 2027, ensuring OhioGuidestone remains engaged in building the partnerships that create healthier, stronger communities.
3-3-3 Tool
One simple grounding exercise is the 3-3-3 Tool, a technique that helps bring your attention back to the present when stress or anxiety begins to take over. Start by noticing three things you can see. Look around and focus on the details—a favorite object, something in the distance, or even a color that catches your eye.
Russell was also recognized by Crain’s Cleveland Business as one of Northeast Ohio’s Notable Leaders in Health Care, an honor recognizing professionals who are advancing a stronger, more responsive health care system through innovation, collaboration, and expanded access to care.
Next, identify three things you can hear. It might be birds outside your window, the hum of a fan, passing traffic, or simply the sound of your own breathing.
Together, these achievements demonstrate OhioGuidestone’s growing leadership in behavioral health and position our organization to build new partnerships, influence meaningful change, and create even greater impact across Ohio.
Finally, move three parts of your body. Wiggle your fingers, roll your shoulders, tap your feet, or notice the feeling of your tongue resting on the roof of your mouth. The 3-3-3 Tool can be practiced almost anywhere and takes less than a minute. While it isn’t a substitute for professional mental health care, it can be a helpful way to slow down, reconnect with the present, and regain a sense of calm. At OhioGuidestone, we’re committed to sharing practical tools that support mental wellness because sometimes the smallest steps can make the biggest difference. Read our blog for more self-care tips!
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Seeds of Hope | Summer 2026
In The News OhioGuidestone Selects Streamline as its Electronic Health Record Provider OhioGuidestone has selected Streamline Healthcare Solutions as its electronic health record (EHR) partner, choosing its SmartCare™ EHR platform to support continued growth, strengthen operations, and better connect information to clients across our continuum of care. Learn more about our partnership on BusinessWire.
Little Free Food Pantry Brings Community Support to Medina A community partnership between OhioGuidestone, Medina High School students, and local organization has brought a Little Free Food Pantry to Northland Drive, providing accessible, 24/7 food and essential items to community members in need. Read more about this initiative on The Gazette.
EVENTS
and fundraising
2026 Promise Run is Just Around The Corner! Saturday, September 26 at Wallace Lake in Berea, Ohio Every step taken on race day helps support vital OhioGuidestone programs across the state including mental health care, substance use disorder treatment, job training, early childhood mental health services, and more.
Sign up for the Promise Run!
Licenses and Certifications Ohio Department of Job and Family Services | Ohio Department of Behavioral Health
Approved Health & Welfare Organization of the East Ohio Conference of the United Methodist Church