Ashtabula and Lake County Behavioral Health Boards Host Second Annual Joint Training Focused on Practical Engagement Strategies
Kim Fraser, Executive Director
Lake County Adams Board
MENTOR, OH — Building on a successful partnership, the Ashtabula County Mental Health and Recovery Services Board and the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board recently held their second annual joint professional development training, continuing a shared commitment to efficiency, collaboration, and high-quality public service.
This year’s training introduced the C.A.R.E. Method—a practical framework designed to strengthen communication and engagement across diverse populations. The method encourages participants to Consider different perspectives, Accept differences in experiences, Recognize potential biases or barriers, and Execute thoughtful, effective responses in their work.
By partnering again, the two boards were able to reduce costs, maximize resources, and secure high-quality training that supports both organizations’ staff and leadership. For smaller public agencies, coordinating efforts like this ensure access to valuable learning opportunities while maintaining fiscal responsibility.
“Hosting this training together for a second year reflects our commitment to being both good stewards of public resources and strong regional partners,” said Kimberly Fraser, Executive Director of the Lake County ADAMHS Board. “We serve communities that share many similarities, and this collaboration allows us to learn from one another while strengthening how we serve residents.”
In addition to cost savings, the joint training created space for sharing real-world strategies and best practices. While the counties have overlapping needs, each also brings unique experiences in serving specific populations. The session encouraged open dialogue about what is working locally and how approaches can be adapted across systems.
“Opportunities like this go beyond training—they build relationships,” said Kaitie Park Hart, Executive Director of Ashtabula County Mental Health & Recovery Services Board. “By coming together, we’re able to exchange ideas, improve our approaches, and better meet the needs of the individuals and families we serve.”
The training emphasized practical, day-to-day application, equipping participants with tools to enhance communication, strengthen service delivery, and foster more effective interactions across a wide range of community members.
This second annual event highlights an ongoing commitment by both boards to continuous improvement, collaboration, and responsible use of public funds—while ensuring services remain responsive to the communities they serve.
About the Lake County Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services (ADAMHS) Board: The Lake County ADAMHS Board plans, funds, monitors, and evaluates services available to residents who are living with mental illness and/or substance use disorders. For more information, visit our website at HelpThatWorks.us
Categories: ADAMHS Board, Lake County - General, Uncategorized