As Family Support Specialists, it is our mission to engage with, support and
empower caregivers to advocate for their families as we connect them to
community resources and walk along side them as they gain new skills.

 

We aim for all Ohio families to have the support and resources to thrive,
feel hopeful about their future and enjoy their family life together.

 

Your Family Support Specialist will...

  • connect families to supports and reduces isolation.
  • normalize lived experiences, reducing shame and blame.
  • encourage resiliency in families so they feel optimistic about their child’s future.
  • support caregivers as they navigate community resources/systems.
  • offer support for caregivers as they develop positive approaches and methods for addressing their family’s day-to-day needs.
  • offer concrete support by attending meetings with caregivers. (School IEP/504, Juvenile Court, Family Team Meetings, Children Services, Developmental Disability and more)

*Families with children ages 0-21 qualify for our program at no cost. 

How to Make a Referral

  • Gather the required documentation. Examples of documentation necessary to complete a referral are:
    • Youth date of birth
    • Youth complete social security number
    • Insurance coverage type (private insurance and/or Medicaid)
    • School district of residence and attendance (may differ)
    • Current grade of youth
    • Existence of Individualized Education Plan (IEP) and/or 504 Accommodation
  • Complete the Release of Information form - 
  • Submit the Release of Information form to Stark County Family Council via:
    • Secure email: melissa.fletcher@starkesc.org
    • Fax: (330) 491-9731
    • Office: 6057 Strip Avenue NW North Canton, Ohio 44720
  • Complete the Family Support Specialist Program Referral form by clicking the link below

We are committed to serving families of all abilities. If you are unable to complete the electronic referral process, please contact us for assistance at (330) 704-9050.

Available in the following counties

Ashland ● Columbiana ● Holmes ● Lorain ● Mahoning ● Medina ● Portage ● Stark ● Summit ● Trumbull● Wayne

COORDINATED COMMUNITY CARE

For stronger youth and stronger families

Stark County Family Council has had an enormous impact on child and family outcomes in Stark County. Our number one priority is helping families obtain and sustain wellness and stay together. Our efforts have increased our county's ability to maximize resources, generate additional state and federal revenue, develop needed programs and services and build capacity to serve children and families. 

When the families of Stark County win, we all win.