New program will 'help the helpers'

A self-care program is being offered through the Family Resource Center of Northwest Ohio and the Hancock County Board of Alcohol, Drug Addiction and Mental Health Services to provide a boost for professional caregivers after a yearlong pandemic. Monthly sessions will include guided meditation practice, opportunities for personal connection, shared resources, and body practices including yoga. Bobbi L. Beale, a senior research associate, trainer and consultant at the Begun Center for Violence Prevention Research and Education at Case Western Reserve University, said the Hancock County Resiliency Network is designed to provide a "safe and brave space" that is needed to allow community healing. The program is intended for providers in behavioral health, juvenile justice, developmental disabilities, education and other youth and family helper fields. During one-hour sessions in April, May and June, participants will explore the ways the pandemic has disrupted mind-body connections, share experiences, and sample a wide variety of strategies to increase resiliency. The virtual sessions will be held at 8 a.m. on the third Tuesday and at 7 p.m. on the fourth Tuesday of each month. Participants can attend as many sessions as desired. There is no cost to participate, but registration is required. To register, visit www.yourpathtohealth.org