Description:

This presentation explores the cultural, historical, and systemic barriers that impact mental health prevention in the Black community and highlights strategies to rebuild trust, increase access, and promote early intervention. Through education, community engagement, and culturally responsive practices, we outline how to create pathways to healing, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

The prevention education domain for this session is CC Cultural Competency

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify key historical, cultural, and systemic barriers that influence mental health prevention and help-seeking behaviors in the Black community. 

2. Examine the impact of stigma, mistrust, and generational trauma on engagement with mental health services. Explore culturally responsive strategies to improve prevention, early intervention, and community-centered support. 

3. Highlight the role of trusted messengers and community partnerships in increasing awareness, access, and utilization of mental health resources. 

4. Equip participants with actionable tools to build trust, foster psychological safety, and promote mental wellness within Black families and neighborhoods

Presenter:

Ashley Glass, MPH, BSN, RN, Founder, Black Women Cultivating Change

Ashley Glass is a devoted mother of three daughters and proudly identifies as a Health Equity Catalyst and Creative. With a strong passion for advocacy, Ashley is deeply committed to improving access to mental and maternal health services within the Black community. She possesses a natural talent for critical thinking, building meaningful connections, and elevating voices that empower individuals to navigate our complex healthcare systems. Ashley is the founder of Black Women Cultivating Change, a nonprofit organization dedicated to reducing stigma around mental health and promoting holistic wellness among Black women and families. Her work is rooted in a belief that healing and equity require authenticity and depth—reflected in her signature quote:
"Life is not surface level."

Description:

This webinar will equip faith community leaders and partners with practical, prevention-based resources that can be immediately applied within their congregations and ministries. Participants will gain a clearer understanding of the state and national prevention systems that support faith-based organizations and how to effectively engage with them. The session will also explore how prevention credentials strengthen both individual leadership and the broader prevention system. Attendees will leave with actionable tools, increased system awareness, and a deeper understanding of how faith communities play a vital role in advancing prevention efforts.

The prevention education domain for this session is P4 Community Organization

This webinar was recorded on April 3, 2026. Recording available here.

Learning Objectives:

1. 1. Attendees will be able to formulate and utilize at least 1-2 new prevention-based resources for carrying out prevention strategies in the faith community.
2. Attendees will develop a better understanding of the prevention systems in the state and nation that are available for faith entities.
3. Attendees will be to outline how a prevention credential impacts the prevention system.

Presenters:

Amanda Conn Starner, MS, CHES, OCPC

Amanda Conn Starner serves as a Chief Program Officer at PreventionFIRST!.

She is responsible for building, growing and sustaining behavioral health prevention coalitions across the Greater Cincinnati region, working to improve prevention development with faith-based entities, and developing prevention training and events for Hispanic/Latino and Black communities. Amanda served as an advisory council member for several years for the Statewide Prevention Coalition Association (SPCA) through Prevention Action Alliance (PAA) which serves the state of Ohio. Amanda is a member of the Ohio Society of Public Health Education (Ohio SOPHE).

Amanda worked for the public sector as a communications director for several years including as a member of senior staff at the Ohio Department of Alcohol and Drug Addiction Services as well as the Ohio Senate. Prior to her government service, Amanda was a journalist working in both print and television, earning at one point in her broadcasting career an Emmy award.

Amanda graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a BA in English Literature, a Journalism Writing Certificate and a Master of Science in Health Promotion and Education with a concentration in community health. She holds additional credentials as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant (OCPC).

Jade Jacobs, BS, CHES, OCPSA

Jade Jacobs is a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and an Ohio Certified Prevention Specialist Assistant (OCPSA). Jade graduated from the University of Cincinnati with a Bachelor's of Science in Public Health. As Program Coordinator under PreventionFIRST!, she is responsible for helping to build, grow, and sustain substance misuse prevention coalitions across the Greater Cincinnati region. She also works to bring prevention education and implementation to communities of Color in the Cincinnati area.

Description:

This one-hour workshop introduces coalition members to the value and purpose of prevention credentialing in Ohio. Participants will explore why credentialing strengthens both individual practice and the broader prevention workforce. The session will provide clear language and practical talking points to help members confidently explain credentialing to others. Attendees will also receive guidance on the first steps needed to begin their own credentialing journey.

This webinar was recorded March 29, 2026. Recording available here.

The prevention education domain for this session is P6 Professional Growth and Responsibility

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify at least two reasons why obtaining a prevention credential is valuable for professionals in Ohio.
2. Describe and articulate key talking points that explain the importance of prevention credentialing to others within their coalition or community.
3. Outline the initial steps required to begin the process of obtaining a prevention credential in Ohio.

Presenter:

Jennifer Benson, MEd, OCPC, ICPS, Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant, Prevention Across the Ages

Jennifer Benson is an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant. She owns a consulting firm, Prevention Across the Ages, LLC, which offers training and coaching for individuals and communities. Jennifer received her Master of Adult Education and Training from the American College of Education. She has worked in prevention for 20 years, engaging in school-based programming, community services, and coalition work. Jennifer enjoys training and working with individuals and communities, helping them gain the tools and skills to implement effective prevention practices. 

Description:

Sustainability is a key component of any successful project—and for faith-based organizations, it’s essential to ensure long-term impact in substance use prevention and community wellness. Sustainability means the continued, consistent implementation of effective prevention policies, strategies, and practices, even as funding, leadership, and community dynamics shift. This interactive training is designed specifically for faith-based organizations and prevention partners. Participants will explore how to embed sustainability into their planning from the start, adapt to changing landscapes, and strengthen their infrastructure. Through practical tools and real-world examples, participants will learn how to identify community assets, sustain outcomes, and build resilient faith-based organizations that reflect their mission and values.

This webinar was recorded on March 20, 2026. Recording available here.

The prevention education domain for this session is P4 Community Organization

Learning Objectives:

1. Identify the key steps in sustainability planning tailored to faith-based organizations or coalitions. 

2. Apply tools and templates to assess and strengthen their organization or coalition’s sustainability efforts. 

3. Begin drafting a sustainability plan using the provided action templates and faith- centered strategies.

 4. Recognize how faith-based values and community assets can support long-term prevention outcomes

Presenter:

Tracy Johnson, Founder, TTJ Group LLC

Mr. Tracy Johnson has 36 years of experience working closely with nonprofits, small businesses, local agencies and communities, helping them with community organizing, environmental strategies, strategic planning, substance misuse prevention, coalition building, person-centered training, humanities, and effective primary prevention programming. He has led major projects for federal, county, and state agencies, boards, and communities on effective behavioral health strategies and substance misuse prevention, with extensive knowledge of the SAMHSA Strategic Prevention Framework comprehensive approach and CSAP's Six Key Prevention Strategies. In 2023, Mr. Johnson was awarded the distinguished NASADAD service award for his work in behavioral health and leading communities across the nation in population-level change. As Managing Partner for SheRay's & Associates, LLC, he leads and directs the training and technical assistance needs of clients. He identifies experts needed to fulfill client needs. Mr. Johnson is a graduate of Northern Illinois University

Description:

Exploring Problem Gambling Through a Faith-Based Lens is a conversation about how faith communities can be places for care, connection, and prevention when gambling begins to cause harm. Problem gambling often affects individuals and families quietly, and faith leaders and congregations are often among the first to notice when someone is struggling. This webinar highlights practical, people centered ways faith communities can walk alongside individuals and families, offer nonjudgement support, and connect them to problem gambling resources when needed, reinforcing that prevention starts with relationships and community care.

The prevention education domain for this session is P2 Prevention Education and Service Delivery

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe problem gambling and its impact on individuals, families and congregations and how gambling-related harm may present within faith community settings.

 2. Identify key faith-related factors that influence prevention and help-seeking related to problem gambling. 

3. Apply supportive, prevention-focused responses by identifying appropriate ways faith leaders and congregations can reduce stigma and connect individuals to problem gambling resources and supports.

Presenters:

Valerie Leach, OCPC, Chief of Office of Community & Family Resiliency, Ohio Department of Behavioral Health

Jimmie Hicks, Deputy Director of Responsible Gambling, Ohio Department of Behavioral Health

Valerie Leach serves as an Office Chief at the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health within the Office of Community & Family Resiliency. With over 20 years of dedicated experience in the behavioral health field, Valerie is a leading advocate and expert in Behavioral Health Prevention and Early Intervention services, utilizing a robust public health approach to enhance community well-being. In her current role, Valerie plays a pivotal role in advancing Behavioral Health Prevention and Early Intervention services through a comprehensive public health approach. She is credited with lifting up and leading several key initiatives, including the Ohio Youth Led Prevention Network, Ohio’s Suicide Prevention Plan, Ohio School Wellness Initiative, and the Ohio Older Adult Behavioral Health and Wellness Initiative. Her leadership and vision have been instrumental in developing and implementing strategies that address behavioral health needs across diverse populations and age groups. Valerie's extensive experience encompasses direct care services in correctional settings and community-based support for individuals navigating substance use and mental health challenges. As an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant with a bachelor’s degree from Ohio University, her expertise is marked by a deep commitment to delivering effective prevention and intervention services that promote resilience and well-being. 

Jimmie Hicks III serves as the Deputy Director of Responsible Gambling at the Ohio Lottery Commission, where he focuses on advancing responsible play through education, awareness, and player-centered messaging. His work is primarily carried out through the Lottery’s WellPlayed Ohio platform, which promotes informed decision-making and healthy engagement with lottery games. In his current role, Jimmie supports responsible gambling efforts by collaborating with internal teams and external partners to strengthen prevention-oriented messaging and outreach. He also engages in the problem gambling space through the Lottery’s partnership with Ohio for Responsible Gambling (ORG), contributing to statewide efforts that address gambling-related harm through coordination and collaboration with prevention, treatment, and advocacy partners. Beyond his professional responsibilities, Jimmie serves as a Board Trustee for Start Right Community Development Corporation, a family-operated nonprofit in Cleveland Heights focused on food security, neighborhood revitalization, and economic empowerment. He also serves as a Minister at Start Right Church of God in Christ, where his ministry work informs his commitment to community care and responsible decision-making. Jimmie holds a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Studies with a focus on Public Relations and Event Planning from Bowling Green State University and a Master of Urban Planning and Development from Cleveland State University.

Description:

Community partnerships and outreach refers to collaborative initiatives between various organizations and community members to address shared problems, leverage resources, and achieve common goals. No one entity alone can address and/or meet all the needs of an individual or community. Collaborative efforts and connections are much needed to effectively meet the needs of the community. In this workshop, we will examine how community partnerships and outreach play a significant role in strengthening and empowering communities, help participants gain an understanding of the importance of community partnerships and outreach, review key characteristics of community partnerships and explore outreach strategies.

This webinar was recorded on February 20, 2026. Recording available here. 

The prevention education domain for this session is P4 Community Organization.

Learning Objectives:

1. Demonstrate an understanding of why community partnerships and outreach are important. 

2. Identify two key characteristics of community partnerships 

3. Develop skills to build partnerships and social capital within the community.

Presenter:

Dr. Marketa Robinson, Ph.D, M.Ed, LCDCIII, OCPC, Executive Director, UMADAOP Dayton

Dr. Marketa Robinson, is the Executive Director of the Urban Minority Alcoholism and Drug Abuse Outreach Program (UMADAOP of Dayton). Dr. Robinson has a Doctorate degree in Human Services and Master's degree in Education - Specializing in Family & Community Organization and Development. Certified by the Ohio Chemical Dependency Credentialing Board as an Ohio Certified Prevention Consultant (OCPC) as well as a Licensed Chemical Dependency Counselor III (LCDC III). Dr. Robinson has worked in the field of prevention and treatment for over 20 years and is well apt in working with youth, adults, and families as well as, the criminal justice/ re-entry population at the local, state, and federal level. Dr. Robinson is a Trainer of Trainer (TOT) of various evidence-based trainings. Her goal and aspiration are to improve the well- being and life choices of those we serve and increase access and availability of quality culturally competent services.

This Prevention Basics training provides an overview of vital substance use and misuse prevention concepts. Participants will be introduced to the public health approach to prevention, the continuum of care, and the role of coalitions and providers in community-based prevention efforts. These concepts will be referenced as the participants are introduced to the Strategic Prevention Framework (SPF).

Sustainability is a key component of any successful project—and for faith-based organizations, it’s essential to ensure long-term impact in substance use prevention and community wellness. Participants will explore how to embed sustainability into their planning from the start, adapt to changing landscapes, and strengthen their infrastructure.

Description
Millions of children live in homes affected by familial substance use, facing daily negative impacts. These children experience significant trauma, and without intervention and support from various professionals, their suffering may go unnoticed and unaddressed. In the United States, one in eight children lives with at least one parent struggling with a substance use disorder. As a result, they are three times more likely to experience abuse and four times more likely to suffer neglect compared to peers in substance-free households. Despite being the first to feel the effects of a family member’s addiction, these children are often the last to receive help and support. Professionals are uniquely positioned to identify these vulnerable children and provide them with a path toward healing rather than continued trauma.

This training will provide participants with a comprehensive understanding of substance use disorder (SUD), the intergenerational cycle of addiction, and the vital importance of early identification and intervention. It will cover strategies and tools for effective engagement and building supportive connections. Key objectives include recognizing trauma and its impacts, identifying at-risk children, using non-stigmatizing language, connecting families with essential resources, and prioritizing self-care. Emphasizing practical strategies and compassionate approaches, the training equips professionals with the necessary tools to respond effectively and sensitively, promoting positive, lasting outcomes for vulnerable children, youth, and the professionals supporting them.

This webinar is provided at no cost. PF! will be applying for Prevention CEUs and CHES hours. The prevention education domain for this session is: P2- Prevention Education & Service Delivery

Description
Have you ever thought about getting involved with a professional organization and wondered if it’s just going to be one more thing on your already-too-long To Do list? In this session, we’ll explore some of the practical benefits of professional associations and networking with like-minded peers. Expanding who you know, taking advantage of local opportunities, and learning about available resources can help you tackle other items on your To Do list. Networking with people who “get you” provides support in various ways, while reinforcing your sense of purpose.  And if you’re looking to boost or refine some of your skills for your job or for your life – you will likely find some ready-made opportunities. This is multi-tasking at its best!

This webinar is provided at no cost. PF! will be applying for Prevention CEUs and CHES hours. The prevention education domain for this session is: P6- Professional Growth & Responsibility