Jessika Easterling is a visionary leader and passionate advocate for recovery, dedicated to making hope and healing accessible to all. A person in long-term recovery herself, Jessika intimately understands the challenges of addiction and the transformative power of community. Since founding OUR Place (Open United Recovery) in 2018, she has been instrumental in the organization's growth, strategic planning, and training initiatives. Jessika’s journey began in 2014 when she launched the first grassroots harm reduction program in her community, recognizing the urgent need for a dedicated Recovery Community Organization (RCO). This vision led to the creation of OUR Place, the first RCO of its kind in the area.

With nearly a decade of experience as a peer supporter and recovery coach, Jessika has trained and mentored many others in the field. She is a certified SMART Recovery facilitator and an OMHAS Certified Peer Recovery Support Training Facilitator, achieving her Master PRS Facilitator credential in 2021. Her dedication to inclusivity and compassion is deeply embedded in OUR Place's core values.

Jessika's academic background in Psychology from Kent State University, where she actively volunteered for the Collegiate Recovery Community, and her experience as a small business owner have further honed her organizational development skills. These experiences have enabled her to build and lead a dynamic and inclusive recovery community.

Beyond her professional achievements, Jessika is a devoted wife, mother of two, and an active volunteer for Ohio Citizen Advocates for Addiction Recovery (OCAAR). Her relentless commitment to reducing stigma, empowering the recovery community, and fostering holistic wellness continues to inspire change in Portage County and beyond.

​ Patrick Heenan, a native of Syracuse, NY, has dedicated his life to service and continuous growth. After earning his BA in Economics from Hartwick College, Pat moved with his family to Ohio in 2001. Never one to shy away from new challenges, Pat decided to further his education later in life, earning a second BA in Special Education from Youngstown State University at the age of 52. His journey of personal growth took another profound turn when he successfully overcame his addiction to alcohol in his 60s, proving that change is possible at any stage of life.

Pat's professional career was equally inspiring. He spent fifteen years as an educator in Trumbull County, working with students with multiple disabilities. As the only male teacher in his school for several years, Pat often worked with the most challenging cases, particularly those involving autism. Through patience, empathy, and a genuine commitment to understanding his students, Pat developed unique connections that had a lasting impact on their lives.

Pat retired from teaching in 2020, just a few months into the pandemic, with plans to get more involved with OUR Place. His admiration for Jessika Easterling's energy and dedication drew him in, and by 2022, he was serving as the board chair. He became a certified Peer Recovery Supporter in 2021 and has since been deeply involved in the community, providing transportation to and from court, probation, treatment facilities, and social events for those in early recovery.

Pat's commitment to recovery extends beyond his administrative roles. He is a certified SMART Recovery facilitator and a staunch advocate of OUR Place's All Pathways commitment, ensuring that everyone in the community has access to the support they need to reach and sustain recovery.

Living in Ravenna, Pat continues to contribute to the community not only through his work at OUR Place but also as a Lyft driver, where he has completed over 1,800 rides. The OUR Place placard in his car has sparked countless conversations, allowing him to spread the message of recovery to a wide audience. Pat's story is a testament to the power of resilience, lifelong learning, and the belief that it is never too late to change your life for the better.

Dr. Steven Stein is a distinguished professional with an unwavering dedication to helping others, particularly through his extensive experience in counseling and human development. Holding a Ph.D. in Counseling and Human Development Services from Kent State University, Steve has specialized in sociometry and life review techniques to enhance social support among elderly residents in assisted living communities. His expertise in this area has significantly impacted the well-being of older adults, providing them with meaningful connections and support systems.

Steve’s journey has not been without its challenges. Having overcome his own addiction, he is a living example of resilience and the power of recovery. His commitment to serving others is deeply rooted in the principles of Buddhism, which he incorporates into his work with an unparalleled level of compassion and humility. Steve leads the Buddhist-Based Refuge Recovery Dharma group at OUR Place, where he guides meditations and shares profound insights on connecting recovery with Buddhist principles. His ability to connect with peers on a personal level makes him a phenomenal one-on-one mentor and support figure.

With over three decades of experience, Steve’s career has spanned various roles, including psychologist, family therapist, and instructor. He has demonstrated proficiency in cognitive assessments, family counseling, and geriatric counseling. His credentials are vast, holding certifications in group psychotherapy, psychodrama, and prescribing psychology. Additionally, Steve has operated a successful private practice, Generational Care Inc., where he provided psychological services and assessments for individuals across the lifespan.

Steve’s dedication to the recovery community is further exemplified by his completion of the OMHAS Peer Recovery Supporter training and the Supervisory training. At OUR Place, he serves as the Peer Supervisor for the OATH (Older Adults Thriving and Healing) Program. In this role, Steve utilizes his expertise to address the growing issue of Substance Use Disorders among older adults, ensuring that this often-overlooked population receives the care and support they need to thrive.

In addition to his roles as Project Coordinator and Peer Support Supervisor, Steve also serves on the Board of Directors at OUR Place. His blend of professional expertise, personal experience, and deep compassion makes him a cornerstone of the support and recovery services offered at OUR Place.

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