(WKBN) — A new sanctuary for first responders is ready to provide them relief from the stresses of the job.

The Mahoning Valley First Responder Wellness Center is a safe space available for active and retired personnel who serve in Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana Counties. It’s run in partnership with area mental health professionals, and can be used for proactive wellness programming, or even for continuing education.

(The Vindicator) — Mahoning County’s first responders now have a central rallying point to gather and to heal from the stress and strain of their jobs.

On Tuesday, the Clarence R. Smith Jr. Family Mahoning County First Responder Wellness Center was formally opened and dedicated by the Smith family and local officials.

Mahoning County’s first responders now have a central rallying point to gather and to heal from the stress and strain of their jobs. On Tuesday, the Mahoning County Mental Health and Recovery Board observed National First Responders Day with a dedication ceremony for the Clarence R. Smith Jr. Family Mahoning County First Responder Wellness Center. Board members were joined by representatives from the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health (DBH), Mahoning County Commissioners, the Mahoning County Sheriff's Office, the Mahoning Probate Judge and Mahoning County Prosecutor, and other county and local leaders and first responders from various departments throughout the county. Also in attendance was Youngstown State University President Bill Johnson and  U.S. Rep. Michael Rulli, R-Salem.

BOARDMAN, Ohio – Not only has “Joe” Dickey Electric energized a Boardman property now renovated to support area first responders, but the electrical contractor also brings unique connections to the project.

The Clarence R. Smith Jr. Family Mahoning Valley First Responder Wellness Center on Raupp Avenue opened Oct. 28, 2025.

The center serves as a dedicated space for training, peer support and mental health services for 152 agencies across Mahoning, Trumbull and Columbiana counties.

What started out as a donation from the Clarence Smith Family to Boardman Township, has now turned into a much needed hub for first responders.

"Since then they've received donations from Mahoning County Sheriff's Office, Poland Township Police Department, Beaver Township Police Department and other private donations helped to transform this beautiful facility into a wellness center for first responders," said Greg Wilson, Poland Township Police Chief.