Summit County Launches Initiative to Address Trauma Across Community

Summit County officials announced the launch of a trauma-informed care initiative following completion of a comprehensive needs assessment by The University of Akron. The program, backed by the Summit County Opiate Abatement Advisory Council and the County of Summit Alcohol, Drug Addiction, and Mental Health Services Board, provides a roadmap for local systems to better respond to trauma.

Research shows unaddressed trauma contributes to worse health outcomes and higher rates of school dropout, suicide, justice system involvement, substance use and workforce instability. The initiative recognizes trauma affects people across all demographics and backgrounds.

County Executive Ilene Shapiro said recognizing trauma’s role will improve care and systems while addressing root causes of substance use and other community challenges.

The needs assessment identified several priorities, including coalition leadership, a shared definition of trauma-informed care, expansion of peer support through certified peer recovery supporters and support for frontline workers.

The implementation plan focuses on six key areas. Coalitions across Summit County will receive assistance with building and strategic planning through ADM Board support. A train-the-trainer model will prepare local leaders across multiple sectors to provide education on trauma-informed care. Professionals will access trauma-informed training tailored to their roles, including Mental Health First Aid and Question, Persuade, Refer programs.

The ADM Board will support specialized trainings in evidence-based practices for behavioral health professionals. Organizations will receive support embedding trauma-informed principles into internal policies. Public awareness campaigns will develop messaging about trauma’s impact, resilience and healing practices.

Jeannie Cool, the ADM Board’s manager of evidence-based practices and outcomes, said the initiative aligns with current workforce wellness efforts and professional development work.

Trauma-informed care recognizes widespread effects of trauma on individuals, families and communities. The approach shifts focus from asking what’s wrong with someone to understanding what happened to them. Core principles include safety, trust, collaboration, empowerment, peer support and cultural humility.

The initiative extends beyond health care and human services to schools, courts, workplaces and neighborhoods. Funding comes from Summit County’s opioid litigation settlement funds and the ADM Board.