OneOhio Around the State: Thanksgiving at The Goedde
Over the past several weeks, OneOhio Executive Director Alisha Nelson and Regional Liaison Sarah Anstine have been traveling the state to meet with the 19 OneOhio Regions and other organizations committed to building healthier Ohio communities.
Most recently, Executive Director Nelson was in Van Wert for a very special Thanksgiving meal and tour at The Goedde. Part of the Van Wert City School District, and in partnership with other area school districts, the Goedde embeds prevention education for alcohol, drug, mental health, and juvenile delinquency into the daily academic curriculums for its 6th through 12th graders. To prepare students for life beyond the classroom, the Goedde utilizes rigorous academic labs that are designed to teach independent living skills in a variety of settings and subjects. Additionally, the school has critical care teams who provide crucial wrap around services to support students in crisis.
You can read more about her visit (here) from the Times Bulletin.
Ahead of the event, students spent weeks planning and preparing food for the Thanksgiving meal. Not only does Thanksgiving at the Goedde give students an opportunity connect with community leaders who attend, it very importantly ensures the students can enjoy a traditional Thanksgiving dinner with their own families. In partnership with local donors, the school also provides each family with a Thanksgiving meal to-go that they can enjoy together at home.
Executive Director Nelson was honored to join students, staff, and local leaders for this very special event. Thank you to the Goedde’s staff, the Van Wert City School District leadership, and the entire community for supporting these students and celebrating their accomplishments.