The Village Network breaks ground on short-term residential cottage in Wooster

The Village Network, with the support of the Mental Health and Recovery Board of Wayne & Holmes Counties and the Ohio Department of Behavioral Health, broke ground Oct. 22 on its new short-term residential cottage, which will be located at the legacy campus in Wooster. This collaborative venture is a significant step in expanding the organization’s mission to help families achieve stability while promoting recovery and long-term resiliency.

The event brought together community leaders, staff, donors and local officials to celebrate the beginning of construction on the project. Once complete, the new facility will serve as a means to stabilize families and minimize the need for out-of-home placements.

“This facility represents a crucial step in addressing the placement crisis in Wayne and surrounding counties that has been identified as a priority in our community,” said Rich Graziano, president and CEO.

The new short-term residential cottage is expected to open in June 2026. It will feature 10 short-term residential beds for boys and girls and is designed to serve at-risk and transitional youth and their families. A key element of this project is focused on meeting the unique needs of families through a variety of services and supports, which will be housed at this facility. It will provide options for more intensive support through short-term placements and respite with intensive service delivery.

“This collaboration demonstrates what is possible when local and state partners work together toward a shared mission," Marnie Willett said. "Together, we are strengthening our system of care and ensuring that no young person or family falls through the cracks.”