Catholic Charities and Ashland County Juvenile Court Partner to Offer Free Parent Education Series
ASHLAND, OH — September 23, 2026 — Catholic Charities and the Ashland County Juvenile Court are partnering to offer “Tough Conversations: Parent Growth Series,” a free four-week educational program designed to help parents and caregivers navigate some of the most challenging issues facing young people today.
The series will provide parents and caregivers with practical information and tools related to youth mental health, substance use and addiction, suicide risk factors and warning signs, effective parent-child communication, and building stronger family connections.
“Parents are often the first to notice when something is changing with their child, but knowing what to look for—and knowing how to start a difficult conversation—can be challenging,” said Judge Karen DeSanto Kellogg of the Ashland County Juvenile Court. “This series is an opportunity for parents to gain information, confidence and practical tools that can strengthen their relationships with their children and help them respond when concerns arise.”
Judge DeSanto Kellogg said, “Catholic Charities’s Sheryl Villegas and Court Administrator Regina Theisen have shown real initiative in developing this program. I could not be more proud of their teamwork.” Judge Kellogg explained that she has noticed that some parents are at a loss when it comes to their children’s mental health. “I have high expectations for parents. But, sometimes I have noticed that parents really don’t know how to respond to what might be a serious crisis when their kids really need them. I want that to change.”
The partnership between Catholic Charities and the Ashland County Juvenile Court reflects a shared commitment to prevention, education and strengthening families before problems become crises. The program is intended for parents and caregivers who want to better understand the challenges young people face and develop stronger communication and connections within their families.
COHORT 2 SCHEDULE
The four-session series will be held:
Wednesday, September 30
Wednesday, October 7
Wednesday, October 14
Wednesday, October 21
5:00–7:00 p.m. each evening
The program is free to parents and caregivers, but registration is required.
Topics Include:
Youth mental health
Substance use and addiction
Suicide risk factors and warning signs
Effective parent-child communication
Building stronger family connections
The goal is to help parents build confidence, connection and communication—giving them information they can use at home and helping them feel better prepared to have the “tough conversations” that can make a difference in a young person’s life.
Registration
Parents and caregivers interested in participating in Tough Conversations: Parent Growth Series – Cohort 2 should register through Catholic Charities at: 419-289-1903
There is no cost to participate, and parents and caregivers are encouraged to register as soon as possible.
Catholic Charities and the Ashland County Juvenile Court are proud to partner in providing this opportunity to Ashland County families and investing in stronger, healthier connections between parents and their children.
