Alternative Paths, Inc.

04/11/2026

If you’re feeling extra anxious or stressed out, one way that might help is using breathing techniques. There are so many different breathing techniques, but this one is inhaling for 4 seconds then holding for 7 seconds and exhaling for 8 seconds. GIVE it a try! If you or someone you know is struggling, don’t hesitate to reach out to Medina Co. Crisis & Behavioral Health Helpline at 330-725-9195. (Thank you to our GIVE team students for the post and the reminder to just breathe.)

04/08/2026

April reminder: breathe, reset, and give yourself grace. Your peace is productive, too. (Thank you to our GIVE team students for the post!)

04/08/2026

Join us for the Northeast, Ohio ODA Regional Lunch and Learn Training!

Attention Northeast Ohio Friends:

Spots are filling up fast for our upcoming Lunch & Learn training sessions—join us for valuable regional collaboration, education, and networking.

Our Northeast Regional Training will be held on April 29, 2026, from 10am-2pm at Summit County Public Health at 1867 W. Market St., Akron, OH 44313.

Free to attend, with lunch provided.

If you RSVP and can no longer attend, please provide 48 hours’ notice so we can plan accordingly and offer your spot to others.

We look forward to seeing you there!

RSVP to tom@ohiodeflectionassociation.org

04/06/2026

You don’t have to go through hard days alone. A simple check in can make someone feel seen, valued, and supported.

04/03/2026

Checking in, spending time together, and staying connected help people feel supported and seen. These everyday actions protect mental health and strengthen our communities.

03/30/2026

The Ohio Deflection Association invites you to its Northeast Ohio Regional Lunch & Learn training. Please RSVP to tom@ohiodeflectionassociation.org, so we can plan accordingly for lunch. We hope to see you there!

03/30/2026

Stress is part of life—but chronic stress doesn’t have to be. Small resets like breathing breaks, boundaries, and movement help protect mental health.

03/28/2026

Stress can push people toward unhealthy coping. But healthy habits—like getting enough sleep, staying active, and talking with trusted friends—build resilience. They give us healthier ways to get through tough moments.

03/27/2026

Gambling problems don’t always look the way people expect. Sometimes the early signs show up as stress, unpaid bills, or avoiding tough conversations. Reaching out early matters — support works, and recovery is possible.

03/26/2026

Last week, Alternative Paths had the privilege of attending the Medina Noon Kiwanis meeting and Macy Hallock Essay Contest award ceremony. We were deeply moved by the experience.

Out of nearly 400 sixth-grade essays submitted by students from Medina City Schools, Alternative Paths was selected as one of just eight local nonprofits to receive a donation. A middle school student wrote about the impact of our work and chose Alternative Paths as their nonprofit of choice. While the student initially requested a $100 donation, the Medina Noon Kiwanis generously increased the gift to $250.

During the ceremony, each selected student read their essay aloud and personally presented the donation, highlighting the empathy, compassion, and community awareness being built in our young people.

We extend our heartfelt thanks to the Medina Noon Kiwanis Club, the students, families, teachers, and schools involved for supporting local nonprofits and investing in the future of our community. As one organizer shared, these essays show that students are learning what it means to care for others—and we couldn’t agree more. Thank you for believing in our mission and for supporting the work we do every day.

03/24/2026

Most tough moments pass. Putting time and distance between someone in crisis and anything that could cause serious harm — like fi****ms, medications, or other dangerous items — can save a life.

03/20/2026

Spring is a good time for a natural reset. One small habit—better sleep, a walk outside, reconnecting with someone you miss—can shift your whole week. Happy First Day of Spring 2026!