Zepf Center

10/13/2026

October is , and we’re celebrating a young author who is using her story to make a difference!

At just 11 years old, Charlotte Beach turned her love of writing and art into a children’s book about Benjamin, a young octopus nervous about starting at a new school. Inspired by her own experiences, Charlotte hopes her story will help other kids feel less alone when facing new challenges.

Even more inspiring? Charlotte chose to donate a portion of her book proceeds to Zepf Center to support youth mental health across Northwest Ohio.

Every child deserves the chance to thrive, and access to mental health care can help young people build confidence, manage anxiety, and navigate the ups and downs of growing up.

We’re so proud of Charlotte for turning her creativity into kindness and helping other kids find hope, one page at a time.

Read Charlotte’s story and learn how to get her book ⬇⬇⬇

The Zepf Center is a Toledo area non-profit that provides behavioral health and vocational services to youth and adults with severe and persistent mental illness in Lucas County. Services include child & adolescent psychiatric, medical, residential, and therapy services, as well as career developmen...

10/12/2026

Understanding substance use starts with education, awareness, and community conversations.

This past Recovery Month, Zepf Center was proud to be part of a discussion featuring Dr. Jon E. Sprague at the Toledo Club. The event brought attention to emerging substance use concerns, including the evolving landscape of synthetic opioids, and the importance of staying informed as these challenges affect our communities.

Conversations like these help strengthen collaboration, share knowledge, and support more informed approaches to prevention, treatment, and recovery.

Thank you to everyone who attended and to the Mental Health & Recovery Services Board of Lucas County for supporting this important event.

10/10/2026

Mental health is something we all have, and caring for it is something we can do together.

From community events and wellness activities to conversations that raise awareness and reduce stigma, these moments remind us how important it is to make space for mental health in our everyday lives.

At Zepf Center, we're proud to be part of a community working to make mental health support more accessible, encourage open conversations, and remind people that they are never alone. Through behavioral health care, substance use treatment, primary care, crisis services, and more, we're here to support the whole person.

Today and every day, let's keep showing up for one another, breaking down barriers, and making it easier for people to ask for help when they need it.

Learn more about our services at zepfcenter.org or call 419-841-7701 to speak with our team.

10/09/2026

Our Primary Care team is taking on the Challenge!

As Primary Care Week 2026 comes to a close, we’re celebrating the team members who help our community stay healthy and get the care they need.

The Triple Double campaign is about strengthening primary care through three important goals: doubling investment, doubling access to care, and doubling the primary care workforce. That means making care more affordable, helping more people connect with providers, and supporting the next generation of primary care professionals!

Thank you to our Primary Care team for the work you do every day to make a difference for our clients and our community!

10/08/2026

Congratulations to our amazing team member Claire for graduating from the Nonprofit Management Certificate program. Bravo! We are lucky to have you sharing the stories of our clients and staff.

🎓 Celebrating our Center for Nonprofit Management Graduates
This past Friday, we had the opportunity to celebrate an incredible group of nonprofit leaders who completed the Center for Nonprofit Management program.

We are so thankful for this dedicated group of 24 leaders who provide services across 11 counties. Their commitment to strengthening their leadership, their organizations and the communities they serve is truly inspiring.

Congratulations to all of our graduates! We can’t wait to see the impact you continue to make.

10/08/2026

We’re proud to see the Northwest Ohio Problem Gambling Coalition featured by the Ohio Coalition Institute!

Founded in 2025 and facilitated by Zepf Center, the coalition has grown to more than 120 members representing 38 Ohio counties in just one year.

Through education, outreach, resource sharing, and collaboration, the coalition is helping strengthen Northwest Ohio’s response to problem gambling and reduce the stigma and harm associated with it.

Thank you to the Ohio Coalition Institute for highlighting this work, and to every coalition member who continues to show up, share their expertise, and help us build a stronger network of support.

Read the full Coalition Spotlight: https://www.ohiocoalitioninstitute.org/coalition-spotlight/the-right-path-for-washington-county-2

Explore how the Northwest Ohio Problem Gambling Coalition is expanding problem gambling prevention, education, partnerships, and resources across Ohio.

10/07/2026

Some stories stay with you.

At the end of September, we brought our community together for a Recovery Peer Panel, where people in recovery shared honest stories of healing, growth, and hope.

These conversations can be emotional, vulnerable, and deeply personal, but they matter. We are grateful to everyone who shared their story and trusted us with their experiences, and to everyone who listened with compassion and an open heart.

Recovery does not look the same for everyone. But no one has to walk it alone.

If you or someone you love is struggling with substance use, know that help is available. Taking the first step toward recovery can feel difficult, but you do not have to take it alone. Zepf Center is here to help you find a path forward.

Reach out to learn more about treatment and recovery services at Zepf Center. Your recovery story can start today.

10/06/2026

As we celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month, we’re proud to recognize the many cultures, stories, and voices that make our community stronger.

Part of building a healthier community is making sure important conversations reach everyone. That includes conversations about problem gambling.

Our recent op-ed in Lazo Cultural explores the impact gambling can have on individuals and families, the importance of breaking down stigma, and the support available for those who may be struggling.

If gambling has become difficult to manage, help is available. Zepf Center’s Problem Gambling program provides confidential, no-cost support for individuals and families.

Read the full op-ed here https://www.lazocultural.com/, or call 419-841-7701 to learn more about Gambling Treatment services.

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10/05/2026

Cold weather is here, and so is cold and flu season.

When you’re feeling under the weather, getting care early can help you get back to feeling your best. From seasonal illnesses and routine checkups to ongoing health needs, Zepf Center Primary Care is here to support your health all year long.

Don’t wait until you’re feeling your worst to make your health a priority. If you’re looking for a primary care provider this season, we’re here to help.

Call 419-841-7701 to learn more or schedule an appointment!

10/01/2026

Student-athletes are more than a score, a statistic, or the outcome of a wager.

We’re proud to partner with University of Toledo Athletics to promote student-athlete well-being and help ensure Toledo Rockets have access to the support they need, on and off the field.

Together, we’re helping create a sports culture built on respect, responsibility, and compassion, ensuring every student-athlete feels safe, supported, and respected on and off the field.

Read the full story from Toledo Athletics: https://utrockets.com/news/2026/9/29/toledo-athletics-and-zepf-center-promote-student-athlete-well-being

Collaboration supports "More Than A Bet," a statewide initiative from Ohio for Responsible Gambling