Nonprofit Spotlight: Greenleaf Family Center

Greenleaf Family Center empowers individuals and families through counseling, education and support, operating in five counties, including Summit. Programs include services for parent and family support and education, along with individual, family and group counseling and behavioral health, among other offerings. Through grant funding, Akron Community Foundation has been a longtime supporter of the agency's Parent Education, Empowerment, Resources and Support (PEERS) program, where advocates train parents of children with complex needs how to navigate the multiple systems of care needed to become their child's lifelong advocate, maximizing their child's opportunity for success. The PEERS program has been in operation for more than 20 years.

This year, Greenleaf was awarded a proactive grant from the community foundation for its PEERS Center for Family Engagement, to help drive systemic change in Summit County's child-serving systems by amplifying parent and caregiver voices, particularly those of children with mental health challenges. Building on the success of its PEERS Parent Advocacy program, the Center will empower families as advocates while also working with organizations to adopt family-driven care practices and reduce stigma. The Center model will expand beyond individual support to include group work and facilitation among caregivers to share experiences and develop skills in advocacy and board service. The systems change grant for $79,000 is the first of a planned three-year grant. (To see a full list of proactive grantees, visit www.akroncf.org/grantmaking-initiatives/proactive-grants/.)

Greenleaf CEO Jill Oldham said she's especially motivated when she learns how their programs are positively impacting the lives of clients and families. "I'm particularly passionate about expanding our ability to help people navigate emotional systems whether as part of a family, workplace, or community. When individuals come to us, they're often focused on immediate life challenges—which can lead to anxiety, conflict, communication breakdown or other symptoms. What excites me is the potential to not only help them with these immediate needs, but to also help them recognize how their reactions and behaviors are interconnected with those around them."

Greenleaf's history in the community reaches back to over 100 years. Founded in 2012, the nonprofit's founding trustees include F.A. Seiberling, Harvey Firestone and Bert Polsky. The organization was established by business and community leaders to help residents with basic needs. To support Greenleaf, visit greenleaf.org/donate. Gifts may also be made to the Greenleaf Family Center Endowment Fund by visiting www.akroncf.org/give/GreenleafFamilyCenter.