Social Worker Launches National Program Training Everyday Leaders to Support Mental Health
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COLUMBUS, Ohio - OhioPen -- As the nation faces record levels of burnout, anxiety, and emotional strain, Sōmōcom Lab® is leading a community-based solution. Developed by Chelsea C. Elliott, MSW, a social worker and founder of Sōmōcom Lab®, the Community Care Collective (CCC) is an evidence-based, nationally recognized training program that empowers everyday leaders to recognize, respond to, and support mental health challenges in their communities.

"We believe that emotional wellness is a community effort," said Elliott, a social worker and emotional intelligence educator. "When mental health is prioritized, people get help earlier, stigma is reduced, and healing becomes a shared responsibility."

Tackling emotional challenges early reduces violence, substance abuse, homelessness, and burnout, and improves school participation, job stability, and family health. Emotionally healthy individuals create safer, more resilient, and more connected communities.

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Research from the World Health Organization (WHO), Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), and Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA) consistently shows that community-based mental health initiatives strengthen public safety, economic health, and overall quality of life.

In just four weeks and 17 hours of live, virtual training, CCC participants earn certifications in Mental Health First Aid, QPR Suicide Prevention, Emotional Intelligence, Trauma-Informed Care, and Financial Trauma Awareness. Graduates become Emotionally Safe Space Certified, listed in the national CCC directory, and connected to a growing network of community leaders dedicated to emotional wellness.

As one participant shared, "We don't need to wear a cape or have an 'S' on our chest to save the day for someone in need. Anyone can help guide someone towards regulation and/or support."

The CCC's rise comes at a critical moment. According to the CDC, rates of depression and anxiety have more than doubled since 2020. Experts agree that early, community-based interventions can reduce violence, substance abuse, homelessness, and burnout, while improving family stability, school participation, and workplace productivity.

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To increase access to this program, Somocom Lab® has partnered with ACE Community House, a nonprofit fiscal agent dedicated to strengthening communities through accessible, life-changing programs.

"The partnership is a testament to what happens when purpose meets community," said LaQuisa Richardson, Community Health Worker and founder of ACE Community House. "This collaboration allows us to stand in the gap for communities, empowering them with tools, compassion, and connection. It's about healing our communities from the inside out, one act of care at a time."

The next CCC cohort launches in March 2026, with scholarships available for qualifying participants. Businesses and organizations are encouraged to sponsor community members or host future cohorts.

To learn more about the program, visit https://www.somocomlab.com/ccc or email hello@somocomlab.com.