Easterseals of Mahoning, Trumbull & Columbiana Counties has transitioned to a new name – Easterseals of Northeast Ohio – a change that reflects a significant expansion of its service area to six additional counties: Ashtabula, Geauga, Portage, Carroll, Tuscarawas and Holmes.
The expansion brings Easterseals’ vital support services to a total of nine counties, enhancing access to life-changing resources for individuals and families throughout the region.
“Expanding our reach is about more than just geography — it’s about increasing our impact and ensuring that individuals and families in every corner of Northeast Ohio have access to the support they need to lead full and empowered lives,” said Jody Klase, CEO of Easterseals of Northeast Ohio. “This is a natural evolution for our organization as we look to grow our programs and build trust and awareness across our new service areas.”
Expanding Services, Strengthening Communities
Easterseals has long been a leader in advocating for full equity, inclusion, and access for people living with disabilities and other special needs. From early childhood programs to medical rehabilitation, autism services, and workforce development, Easterseals offers a continuum of services to meet the diverse needs of children, adults and seniors in the community.
With the addition of these six new counties, Easterseals is extending its expertise and resources into areas where there was previously no active presence, ensuring that Northeast Ohio residents have access to the same top-quality services Easterseals is known for nationwide. Most services will initially be offered virtually, with plans to establish satellite offices in Ashtabula and Portage counties as demand grows.
Building on a Century of Impact
For more than 100 years, Easterseals has worked tirelessly to enhance quality of life for individuals and families across the country. Nationally, Easterseals provides services to more than 1.5 million people each year through a network of 550 service sites. Easterseals of Northeast Ohio’s expanded footprint aligns with this legacy, creating opportunities for more families to benefit from programs like:
- Adult Day Care
- Home Delivered Meals
- Deaf Services
- School-Based Mental Health Services
- Medical Rehabilitation
- Kindergarten Readiness
“Our new name reflects our broader reach, but our focus remains deeply rooted in serving the local community,” Klase added. “All donations we receive will continue to stay right here in Northeast Ohio, directly benefiting the individuals and families who rely on our programs and support.”
Same Services, New Name
For current clients, Klase emphasized that while the name is changing, their access to services will not be impacted.
“Our name change and growth into new counties don’t affect clients currently receiving services in the Mahoning Valley,” she said. “We are simply expanding the opportunity to reach more people and build stronger communities.”
Easterseals of Northeast Ohio remains headquartered in Youngstown and will continue its work with local families, community partners and supporters to create a future where everyone is valued, respected and accepted.
About Easterseals of Northeast Ohio
Easterseals of Northeast Ohio provides services, education, outreach, and advocacy to people living with disabilities and their families. With a mission to ensure that everyone can live, learn, work, and play in their communities, Easterseals is committed to advancing access, equity, and inclusion.
