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Our Purpose and Vision

Strengthening Connections Community Services exists to support caregivers, children, and youth through trauma-informed, prevention-focused programming rooted in connection, emotional regulation, and community care.​

Our vision is a future where families receive support early—before stress turns into crisis—and where prevention, healing, and resilience are accessible, stigma-free, and community-centered.​

We believe that when caregivers are supported and young people feel safe, heard, and connected, healthier outcomes follow for families and communities alike.

About Strengthening Connections

Strengthening Connections Community Services is a nonprofit organization supporting caregivers, children, and youth across Central Ohio and the Mahoning Valley through trauma-informed prevention and community wellness programming.

Prevention-Focused

Strengthening Connections Community Services is grounded in the belief that prevention starts with people—not systems.

Our leadership and facilitators reflect the lived experiences of the communities we serve, and our programs are designed to be accessible, stigma-free, and responsive to real-life needs.

We are proud to have implemented prevention-focused initiatives supported by community and public partners.

Community-Rooted. Lived-Experience Led.

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Our Commitment

We are committed to providing programs and spaces that are:

  • Trauma-informed — grounded in emotional safety, choice, and regulation

  • Prevention-focused — supporting families early, not only in crisis

  • Low-barrier & accessible — no diagnosis or referral required

  • Community-based — offered in trusted spaces and virtual settings

  • Lived-experience led — shaped by those who understand the work personally

 

Our approach prioritizes dignity, relationship, and meeting people where they are, while creating pathways to deeper support when needed.

We are also committed to responsible stewardship, transparency, and continuous learning as we grow and strengthen our impact.

Our Amazing Team

Strengthening Connections Community Services is led by individuals who bring both professional experience and lived understanding to this work.

Our team includes facilitators, leaders, and partners who reflect the communities we serve and are deeply committed to prevention, connection, and community wellness.

We believe that trust is built through relationship—and that lived experience, compassion, and accountability are essential to creating meaningful, lasting impact.

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Camille Heller

Founder & Executive Director

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Toya Brown

Program Manager

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Rita Heller

Community Support Specialist

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