Toledo, OH – Today, September 28, 2022, Lucas County continues to see more and more deaths from overdose and suicide. Zepf Center chose to combat this by taking a moment to engage directly with lawmakers. That is why on Monday Zepf Center hosted State Senator Teresa Fedor, State Representative Paula Hicks-Hudson, State Representative Lisa Sobecki, and Councilwoman Theresa Morris to address substance use disorder and mental health and how legislation can be implemented to help fight these epidemics.

Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County, Executive Director Scott Sylak, was present to make the opening remarks and expressed just how important this fight is. Zepf Center C.E.O. Deb Flores said, “events like this are critically important to our mission as an organization and as an industry. That’s why it is essential to be clear and upfront about how legislation could impact the road to recovery for everyone.”  

Legislatures spoke to industry-leading staff about treatment for disorders developed from using drugs and alcohol, behavioral treatment for gambling, and how to help clients and families in crisis. After the presentation, the legislatures took a tour of Zepf Center’s newest expansion, Zepf Center’s Crisis Care. Crisis Care is an all-encompassing behavioral health care provider that operates 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, by qualified mental health professionals that tailor services to a client’s individual needs.

“This recovery month, we wanted to do something really special,” said Flores, “that is why as we celebrate recovery month, we want to seize this opportunity to benefit both our clients and our industry for the future.” 

About Zepf Center: Zepf Center is a Toledo-based, non-profit behavioral health and vocational services clinic for youth and adults with severe and persistent mental illness and those struggling with addiction. Its mission is to create hope and recovery through integrated person-centered services. www.zepfcenter.org