Simplifying Service Access for Massillon's At-Risk Population
Join us in our mission to serve others and bring the resources needed to Massillon
About Project Massillon Empowerment
Providing effective solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve
Our Mission
Our mission is to serve as Massillon’s primary access point for comprehensive support, thereby alleviating the challenges associated with navigating complex service pathways for the at-risk population.
To Feel Empowered:
Individuals need to cultivate the belief that they can change their circumstances.
Not just lending a “helping hand” or “giving a hand out” but…..giving individuals the tools and confidence to stand on their own two feet.
At it’s core, empowerment is telling someone, “I believe in you!” and then showing them how to believe in themselves.
To Feel Empowered:
- Individuals need to cultivate the belief that they can change their circumstances.
- Not just lending a “helping hand” or “giving a hand out” but…..giving individuals the tools and confidence to stand on their own two feet.
- At its core, empowerment is telling someone, “I believe in you”! and then showing them how to believe in themselves.
Empowerment Theory
Involves using intervention methods to guide people toward achieving a sense of control. People may feel helpless in their lives for any number of reasons, but Empowerment theory focuses on how oppression contributes to this experience. It centers on helping marginalized people at individual, group, and community levels gain the personal, and interpersonal power to improve their lives. Additionally, the empowerment theory model seeks to challenge systems that prevent or hinder people from having their basic needs met.
Empowerment Theory In Action:
Individual Empowerment
- Skills Development: Offering workshops and training programs to enhance skills in areas such as financial literacy, job readiness, and personal development.
- Support Services: Provide access to resources such as counseling, healthcare, and housing assistance to help individuals overcome barriers.
Community Empowerment
- Community Involvement: Engage community members in decision-making processes to ensure that their voices are heard and their needs are met.
- Partnerships: Collaborate with local organizations, businesses, and government agencies to create a network of support and resources.
- Advocacy: Train individuals to advocate for themselves and their community, helping them to influence policy and create systemic change.
Organizational Empowerment
- Capacity Building: Strengthen the organizational capacity of Project Massillon Empowerment through training, funding, and strategic planning.
- Leadership Development: Encourage leadership at all levels within the organization, fostering an environment where staff and volunteers feel valued and capable of making a difference.
- Sustainable Practice: Implement sustainable practices to ensure the long-term viability and impact of the project.
Project Massillon Empowerment is distinguished by its founder, who brings a deeply personal perspective to the organization’s mission. Having experienced challenges similar to those she serves, the founder intimately understands the complexities and emotional toll of navigating crises such as job loss, housing instability, and access to essential services. This firsthand experience not only fuels a passionate commitment to serving others but also enables a unique level of empathy and insight into the needs of those served. It shapes Project Massillon Empowerments approach, ensuring that every individual receives not just support, but understanding and empowerment from someone who has walked a similar path. This personal connection enhances the organization’s ability to deliver holistic, effective solutions that make a meaningful difference in the lives of those we serve.
At Project Massillon Empowerment, we offer a comprehensive range of services designed to support the well-being and growth of individuals and families in our community. Our programs address the key areas of life that contribute to personal, economic, and social stability, including:
Basic Needs and Essentials
Ensuring community members have access to affordable necessities, including groceries, prescriptions, and other vital resources.
Health and Wellness
Promoting mental, physical, and emotional health through recovery programs, counseling, and holistic wellness services.
Family and Parenting Support
Empowering parents and caregivers with the resources, education, and assistance needed to thrive in their roles.
Economic Empowerment
Providing tools for financial stability and independence through job training, employment services, and financial literacy programs.
Community Connections
Linking individuals to a broader network of support services, including legal assistance, housing support, and other community-based resources.
Our Founder
Heather Berens
- Certified by the State of Ohio in Peer support
- QMHS (Qualified Mental Health Specialist) certified
- Worked at the Hunter House through Coleman serving a building of 50 home units for people experiencing homelessness and dual diagnosis (SUD/MH)
- Worked at Domestic Violence Project in the Massillon location assisting survivors in rebuilding their lives
- Worked at Legacy Project of Stark County serving Massillon/Canton Mckinney Vento students meaning experiencing homelessness or unaccompanied youth.
“I have always known that I want to help people, it just took me a minute to realize in what capacity that was. I’m no good at having a boss….LOL! This is definitely my calling and my chance to turn my mess into my message!”
Resources
Coming soon…
Our Partners & Supporters
We’re thankful for those who support our mission and are helping us achieve our goal of providing the best support for those in need in Massillon.
We aim to partner with as many Stark County agencies as possible, ensuring that the many resources provided throughout Stark county are readily available and accessible to the Massillon community!
Special thanks to:
