What's Happening?
The Summit County Council has approved the appointment of board members to two charitable funds: the Summit Health and Safety Innovation Fund and the Summit County Community Empowerment Foundation. The Health and Safety Innovation Fund, established with
$45 million from the county's opioid settlement, aims to support prevention, public safety, and long-term recovery efforts. The Community Empowerment Foundation, funded with $5 million from the same settlement, focuses on aiding minority and disadvantaged communities affected by the opioid crisis. The board members, appointed by Summit County Executive Ilene Shapiro and the Akron Community Foundation, will serve staggered terms to ensure continuity and effective governance.
Why It's Important?
These appointments mark a significant step in utilizing the county's opioid settlement funds to address public health and safety issues. By focusing on prevention and recovery, the Health and Safety Innovation Fund aims to create a lasting impact on the community, potentially reducing future opioid-related harm. The Community Empowerment Foundation's focus on minority and disadvantaged communities highlights a commitment to equity and targeted support for those most affected by the opioid epidemic. These initiatives could serve as a model for other regions seeking to address similar public health challenges through strategic use of settlement funds.
