The Silver Lining Group (SLG) is hosting a grand opening on Saturday, Oct. 12 from 1-3 p.m. to celebrate their new location and to hold a playground dedication ceremony in honor of Jason Young.
The agency, accredited in the area of Behavioral Health Services by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities (CARF), has provided services to the community since 2007.
Because of increased clientele, the facility moved from its original location in downtown Mansfield to Village Mall Drive, and eventually transferred across the street to its current location on Lexington-Springmill.
In regard to the new site, CEO Kristen Wilcock noted, “This location is a spacious building that meets the needs of our clients well. We have a beautiful outside play area to accommodate our new playground.”
The playground will be dedicated in honor of Jason Young, father of Colton Young, who currently attends the facility.
The elder Young passed away from a heart attack in late March at the age of 43. His sister, Lisa Young McManes, mentioned that when he passed, the Young family asked that any donations people were willing to give should be made to the SLG.
Colton Young has been enrolled at the facility since he was in preschool. Currently, he is in second grade and has the option to continue attending through high school.
He was diagnosed with moderate to severe autism. Since enrollment at the facility, “He’s made a complete 180,” said his aunt. “He’s much more verbal than before and he’s able to handle loud noises a bit more and can read much better.”
“It’s been a complete difference for my sister-in-law, Laurie, too,” she added, “As he feels more comfortable saying ‘I love you,’ to her and others.”
McManes explained that after the passing of her brother, “Both Colton’s teacher and school director were available to come to the calling hours and help Laurie and assist the family. They also talked to Colton about his father passing and tried to help explain what happened.”
The SLG provides services for individuals with autism spectrum disorders, behavior problems, and other mental health disorders. Additionally, the facility is an approved provider for the Autism Scholarship Program through the Ohio Department of Education.
Those who serve on staff include a team of licensed psychologists, licensed professional counselors, licensed independent social workers, board certified behavior analysts, board certified assistant behavior analysts, certified special education teachers, and staff with advanced training certifications that create, manage, and implement each client’s individual program.
Wilcock stated that both children and adults utilize services provided by the facility, which include social skills training, applied behavior analysis, natural environment training, verbal behavior, play therapy, pivotal response training, among much more.
Additionally, the SLG offers adolescent services including high school graduation opportunities, vocational training and support, and community functioning training and support.
For more information regarding the facility or the grand opening, contact 419-747-4122.
“This location is a spacious building that meets the needs of our clients well. We have a beautiful outside play area to accommodate our new playground,” noted CEO Kristen Wilcox.
