Here's what we found for you
- Introducing StarkHelpCentral.comStarkHelpCentral.com provides information and support to youth, young adults and engaged members of our community.
- How To Be an Advocate for Youth in Your Stark County CommunityLearn how you can find and share resources to be an advocate for youth in your Stark County community.
- Looking for Work in Stark County, Ohio Without a Degree: Opportunities, Resources, and Tips
Stark County offers a wealth of employment opportunities across various industries, many of which don’t require any more than a High School Diploma or GED. From manufacturing to healthcare, retail, and tourism, the job market in the area is rich and diverse. In this article, we’ll explore the industries in Stark County and the resources available for a successful job search that doesn’t require a college degree.
Manufacturing in Stark CountyStark County has a deep-rooted history in manufacturing,
- Transportation: youth & teens
Reliable transportation to school, work and other activities is critical for youth and teens. Without access to consistent transportation, the ability to maintain regular school attendance and employment is limited. Fortunately, there are affordable transportation services that offer easy, convenient access to school and other locations throughout Stark County. For those who qualify, free transportation to medical appointments may also be available.
- Hard times: young adults
The transition to adulthood presents many new and often daunting challenges – from finding affordable housing to navigating the job search. If you find yourself struggling with the demands of bills, groceries, budgets and money management, don’t be discouraged. Community resources are available to support you toward a better financial future.
- Migrant workingPeople who work outside of their home country are especially susceptible to human rights violations. They are often forced to work in unsafe, unsanitary environments and face abuses that go largely unseen and unreported. Find local resources to support these underrepresented employees.
- Developmental disabilities: young adults
The journey to adulthood can be challenging for anyone, and especially for young people with developmental disabilities. From securing employment and managing health care responsibilities to finding accessible housing and transportation, there is a lot to learn to ensure a smooth transition. To plan for success in the adult world, community resources are available. Learn about the advocates and supporters helping to empower young adults with disabilities in Stark County, Ohio.
- Mental health: young adults
Teens and young adults who have diagnosable mental illnesses may have difficulty managing daily life functions, including securing housing, employment and education without assistance. Fortunately, Stark County has many mental health and independent living programs available to help support young people as they transition to adulthood.
- Peer pressureEvery young person experiences the pull of peer influence at one point or another. During the teen years, when the desire to conform is heightened, it can be tough to resist joining in the same risky behavior as one’s friends, peers and classmates. But doing so can have harmful and lasting consequences.
- Transportation: young adults
Early adulthood marks an exciting and challenging time as young people move toward independent living and financial freedom. But without dependable transportation, young adults face obstacles in finding and sustaining meaningful employment. Reliable transportation is important for accessing opportunity and staying connected to the community. Discover what local programs and services are available to address your transportation needs.
- Gangs & violence: young adults
While teens involved with violence and gang activity do face consequences, the punishments are much more severe once they reach adulthood. In addition to risking your own life, you may be putting your friends and family at risk. Not to mention the potential for years of prison time and lost employment opportunities. But that doesn’t have to be your future. Not with the support available in our community.
- Suicide prevention: young adults
The transition to adulthood is a time of significant changes and challenges. As you seek full-time employment, experience changes in your relationships and move toward independent living, life can feel overwhelming. No matter why you are hurting, it is important to remember you are not alone. Find mental health service providers and emotional support resources for young adults in Stark County. Call the Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 if you need immediate assistance.
- Public TransportationBefore you ride, you can view bus schedules and area maps to shopping centers, medical facilities, restaurants, grocery stores, schools, places of employment and other areas of interest. Find a transportation route that can get you to your desired destination.
- Health & insurance: young adults
For some young adults who do not receive benefits through their employers, purchasing medical insurance can be a hardship. Yet, it’s vital to secure health care coverage to stay healthy and offset large medical expenses. The Ohio Medicaid program offers those who qualify a way to obtain state-funded medical insurance, which provides coverage for many important health care services at little or no cost to the individual. Learn what Medicaid benefits could mean for you.
- Legal assistance: young adults
While youth ages 18 to 25 are still developing into mature and self-sufficient adults, many laws and policies begin treating them as adults at age 18. Poor decisions made during this time can have life-long consequences and may make it more difficult to access employment, housing and other basic needs later on. Seek out local legal assistance for the complex challenges these transition-age youth face, including record expungement eligibility.
- Developmental Disabilities Family Support
Caring for a child with developmental disabilities can be a significant financial and emotional challenge. Stark Help Central has gathered together some of the most common resources to help you provide the care your child needs. From transportation and child care to cash, food and employment support, learn about the resources available to you.
For more information on how to apply for accessible plates or windshield placards, visit bmv.ohio.gov/.
- Child labor
While Stark County has made significant progress in addressing and preventing child exploitation, there are still children working in hazardous conditions, illegally and for low or no wages. Find resources to report child labor and support services for affected children.
- Hard times: early childhood
Young children need proper nutrition and medical care in order to grow, develop and thrive. When a household is in financial crisis, it can have serious, long-term health, social and behavioral implications throughout their lives. Fortunately, families in Stark County are not alone in facing these challenges. There are local agencies dedicated to providing food, clothing, shelter and cash assistance to those who are experiencing hard times.
Even parents who are employed with steady incomes may struggle to make ends meet when they have child.
- Hard times: youth & teens
When your family faces a job loss, medical issue or another significant financial setback, you might be shocked, confused and unsure where to turn. Fortunately, there are resources for young people and families who need emergency financial assistance in Stark County.
- Behind On Rent & Utilities
If you’re facing financial hardships and need help with rent and utilities to help you stay afloat, Stark County offers various programs to assist. Review the options available and reach out to find out which programs might work best for you.
- Transportation Services
For many Stark County residents, public transportation services are essential for their basic needs, including trips to work and medical appointments. Fortunately, local transportation resources are available to support low-income individuals as well as those with permanent disabilities. Find routes and more information for SARTA here.
- Find help for…
If you or someone you know could use a helping hand, community support is available here in Stark County. Learn about the local support resources working to address some of the most common concerns facing our community’s residents. Hope for a happy, thriving future starts today.
- Resources for Parents
Nothing prepares you for parenthood. Parenting has been called the ultimate long-term investment. It’s one of the most complex and challenging jobs you’ll face in your lifetime – and also the most rewarding. Find local resources to help you navigate parenthood in Stark County.
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- Applying for disability
Do you feel that you or someone you know is eligible for disability services? If you are no longer able to work due to an illness, accident or injury, you may qualify for social security disability insurance in Stark County. Learn how to apply for disability assistance and get started today.
- Affordable child care
Find local resources, organizations and public assistance programs dedicated to making reliable, safe and affordable child care accessible to all families in Stark County. Child care assistance helps to pay a portion of your child care costs, so you can continue to work and support your family.
- MentorStark Amplifies Mentoring in Stark County
It’s National Mentoring Month and there’s no better time to tell you how being a mentor changed my life! I have learned from the perspectives of young people. I have witnessed firsthand systemic racism and inequity. I have experienced the roadblocks that get in the way of accessing community resources. I have become a better listener and less judgmental. And I have seen how young people can lead the way, if given a voice and an opportunity.
- Violence & discriminationCompared to their heterosexual peers, LGBTQ+ teens may face a greater risk of discrimination and targeted violence – from bullying, teasing and harassment to physical and sexual violence. However, area resources are working to put an end to anti-LGBTQ+ stigma by standing up and speaking out against hate and intolerance.
- Developmental disabilities: youth & teens
Beginning around age 14, is it important that families of children with developmental disabilities start the process of transitioning to adulthood. This includes activities such as age-appropriate transition assessments, setting measurable postsecondary goals and planning an eventual career path. Through support from the Stark County Board of Developmental Disabilities, learn ways to set your child up for success and independence in adulthood.
- LGBTQ+: young adults
Just like anyone else, LGBTQ+ teens undergo a variety of lifestyle changes on their path to adulthood. They face new challenges, from living independently and finding a job to evolving relationships. However, emerging LGBTQ+ adults often find that coming out and coming into their own is an additional source of stress. Learn about the local programs and services available to support these local young people as they develop new coping resources and strategies.
- High school equivalenceNontraditional students who have not received a high school diploma can pursue similar credit through a High School Equivalence Test (HiSET), Test Assessing Secondary Completion (TASC) or General Equivalency Development (GED) program. These courses allow students to apply for jobs or pursue a college degree that would otherwise require a high school diploma.
Bridges
Bridges is a voluntary program for young adults in the foster care system who are ages 18, 19 or 20. It provides guidance and support during the transition to adulthood for individuals who are in school, working or have a qualifying medical condition.
Rodman Public Library
Rodman Public Library is a public library that serves Alliance and the greater Stark County area. Rodman Library offers free access to books, digital materials, technology, and a welcoming space to support visitors’ informational needs.
A wide variety of books, eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music, and online resources for all ages are available at the library, along with free computer and internet access, Wi-Fi, printing, and meeting rooms. Knowledgeable staff are available to help with job searching,
Alliance, OH 44601
Stark Library
Stark Library is a public library system serving Stark County through 10 locations, a Bookmobile, and a wide range of online services. Stark Library offers free access to books, digital materials, technology, and welcoming spaces that support lifelong learning, workforce development, and community connection.
Community members can explore books, eBooks, audiobooks, movies, music, and online resources for all ages, along with free computer and internet access, Wi-Fi, printing, and meeting rooms. Knowledgeable staff are available to help with job searching,
Canton, OH 44702
American Red Cross: Stark and Muskingum Lakes Chapter
We help communities in Northern Ohio prepare for, respond to, and recover from emergencies. We are able to make a difference in our local communities because of the generosity of our donors and support of our volunteers. Together, we provide the following programs and services:
- Disaster Services
- Volunteer Services
- Blood Donation Services
- Lifesaving Skills Training
- Military or Veterans Assistance (mental health counseling, emergency assistance and job services)
- Home Fire Campaign
Canton, OH 44707
Stark County Family Court
Legal services for child custody, behavioral health and domestic relations cases. Visit their website for more information.
Intake specialists who work with juvenile offenders and their families to prepare for court cases and provide mediation when possible are available at (330) 451-7317.
Court Appointed Special Advocates (CASA)/ Guardian Ad Litem (GAL) – Representing the rights and interests of abused, neglected and dependent children in Stark County.
Suite 670
Canton, OH 44702
Phoenix Rising Behavioral Health and Recovery Inc.
Provides outpatient psychiatric, counseling, and case management services to children, adolescents, and adults
Mental health & illness, addictions, dual disorders, behavioral issues, trauma
Canton, OH 44702
Canton Symphony Orchestra
The Canton Symphony Orchestra (CSO) is a professional performing arts organization dedicated to enriching the Stark County community through live orchestral music, educational programming, and meaningful engagement opportunities.
Through our MasterWorks and Employers Health Pops concert series, the CSO presents world-class performances featuring professional musicians, guest artists, and conductors of national and international acclaim. These concerts are designed to inspire, challenge, and entertain diverse audiences in a variety of settings.
Beyond the concert hall,
Canton, OH 44708
The Arc of Ohio: Northeast Region
North Canton, OH 44720
Stark County Family Council
Stark County Family Council adopted the National WrapAround Initiative’s High-Fidelity WrapAround model, an evidenced-based intensive service coordination model. Youth involved in the WrapAround process are typically involved in multiple systems or have multi-systemic needs.
High Fidelity WrapAround is a voluntary, strengths-based, needs driven process. The WrapAround Service Coordinator does this by first engaging the family and completing a Strength, Needs & Culture Discovery. The WrapAround Service Coordinator then assists the family in putting an individualized team together that consists of the family’s natural supports as well as the professionals who are working with them.
North Canton, OH 44720
Queer in Canton Community Center
Queer in Canton works to build community and help LGBTQAI+ people and allies across Stark County find belonging.
Offering:
- Safe Space for the LGBTQ+ Community
- Support Groups
- Resource Distribution
- Youth programming for individuals 12-18 years old
- Community Closet
- Community Events
Please note that we’ll be closed on these holidays: New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King Day,
Canton, OH 44709
National Center for Missing & Exploited Children
If you think you’ve seen a missing child, call anytime, 24 hours a day.
The National Center for Missing & Exploited Children is a private, non-profit 501(c)(3) corporation whose mission is to help find missing children, reduce child sexual exploitation, and prevent child victimization. NCMEC works with families, victims, private industry, law enforcement, and the public to assist with preventing child abductions, recovering missing children, and providing services to deter and combat child sexual exploitation.
Phoenix Rising Behavioral Health & Recovery of Alliance
Provides outpatient psychiatric, counseling, and case management services to children, adolescents, and adults
Mental health & illness, addictions, dual disorders, behavioral issues, trauma
Closed Friday, clients directed to Canton if an emergency or direct care needed
Alliance, OH 44601
Free Mom Hugs (Ohio Chapter)
Free Mom Hugs in Ohio can be found at Pride and LGBTQ+ community-focused events across the state. Once you register with the Ohio group, they will connect you with the appropriate local chapter.
Free Mom Hugs works to empower the world to celebrate the LGBTQIA+ community. We embrace people of all faiths, backgrounds, ethnicities, genders, and sexual orientations. Our goal is to change the world simply by showing up.
Our goal is not to replace family relationships,
AHEAD, Inc.
AHEAD Inc. is a local non-profit that has supported Massillon children and their families for more than 30 years. Our purpose is to help remove the barriers that can make learning difficult, so every child has the chance to grow, succeed, and feel supported. We work side-by-side with Massillon City Schools and community partners to connect families with meaningful services and resources.
AHEAD offers a variety of supports designed to strengthen students both in school and at home.
Massillon, OH 44646
Military and First Responders Center
Horsemanship Sessions: Spend one-on-one time with the horses, and discover how they view the world and what lessons we can learn. Sessions are typically held on Wednesdays. Topics include the power of the herd, the silent language of the horse, the importance of authority, safety from the horse’s point of view, and dealing with an ever-changing environment. We also provide sessions for groups that may be interested. Email Missy for more information or to register.
Louisville, OH 44641
Help Me Grow-Early Intervention
If you’re concerned that a child may have a delay or disability, it’s important to refer them for Early Intervention as soon as possible. Early Intervention can address all types of concerns, like crawling or walking, speech delays, or social interaction like playing with other children.
Early Intervention is available in every part of the state and to any eligible child,
North Canton, OH 44720
AT&T: Discounted Internet Services
AT&T will assign the participant to the fastest of these speed tiers available where the participant lives.
ELIGIBILITY – Must have one household member participating in the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP). Also known as food stamps.
– Available for households in the National School Lunch Program,
Stark County Educational Service Center
The Stark County ESC had its inception in 1914 with the establishment by the Ohio Legislature of county boards of education.
Currently, the ESC provides shared services to 15 local and 6 city school districts, 1 exempted village, and one career center in Stark, Carroll, Summit, and Tuscarawas counties. Together these districts enroll over 60,000 students.
The Stark County ESC is experienced in meeting the needs of a diverse population of students.
North Canton, OH 44720
Stark County Homeless Hotline – Homeless Navigation
The Stark County Homeless Navigation Hotline (330-452-4363) refers eligible callers to appropriate shelters and other programs for households that meet the HUD definition of literally homeless after conducting an eligibility interview Monday – Friday 7am to 5:30 pm and Saturdays 10am to 2pm (except holidays). Homeless Navigation maintains a current listing of available shelter beds throughout Stark County, and works with mental health agencies, hospitals, law enforcement, alcohol and drug treatment centers, and the courts to prevent discharge into homelessness.