Children’s residential treatment center dedicated to former director

WARREN, Ohio (WKBN) – The residential treatment center at Trumbull County Children Services has a new name, dedicated to a man who led the agency for more than a decade and had a passion for helping the county’s most vulnerable children.

Timothy Schaffner began his social work career at Sagamore Hills Children’s Psychiatric Hospital 49 years ago. Now the Trumbull County Children Services’ Residential Treatment Center bears his name.

“Of all people, definitely deserves it,” said Terra Hohvart who lived at the facility.

Prior to his retirement in February, Schaffner spent 12 years as the agency’s executive director but most of his career involved residential treatment and in-patient care.

“We are extremely happy that we can do this for Tim because he has done so much for our agency and for the kids in residential care,” said Trumbull County Children Services Executive Director Marilyn Pape.

Pape said Schaffner’s superpower is his ability to relate to children

“I came over every day, knew all the kids, and really loved watching the program develop into really I think the best in Ohio,” Schaffner said.

“Under his guidance, countless children found not only shelter and care but hope for a brighter future,” said Residential Administrator Nikki Hazlett.

Hohvart is one example. She calls Schaffner a mentor and friend. She stayed at this residential facility twice in her teenage years.

Currently, Hohvart is a respite provider for Cadence Care Network.

“Although the circumstances that led me there were extremely unfortunate, it grew my character strong and hard, which made me the happy, strong, and successful person that I am now,” she said.

Schaffner said he’s grateful to end his career at such a wonderful place.

“This is a really great honor just to end my career at an agency this wonderful doing this kind of important work,” he said.

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