We’re racing against time to support youth, like Martay, who are facing mental health crises. Your gift today can make a life-changing impact!
The Buckeye Ranch’s Caregiver Peer Support Groups, hosted in partnership with REAL TALK Real Support, provide a space for parents and caregivers whose children struggle with mental or behavioral health needs to come together and share their journey with others who are on the same path. Featuring community discussions to provide valuable insights, resources, and connection, the goal of these free support groups is to create a community for every caregiver so they can also find hope as they navigate how to support healing for their child and family.
The Buckeye Ranch has a Peer Support Liaison to help caregivers with questions as they explore the Caregiver Peer Support Groups, guide group conversations, help build community with caregivers in groups, and teach social-emotional tools to support you as navigate supporting the mental health journey for your child.
Caregiver Peer Support Groups offered through REAL TALK, Real Support take place several times each month at various locations. The Buckeye Ranch will host Caregiver Peer Support Groups to expand access for individuals in the community, specifically those whose families are receiving support from Buckeye Ranch programs. The calendar below will share time and location as these are scheduled.
No pre-registration is required – we simply invite you to come to a support group session to listen, learn more, and connect! Groups are free to attend. We believe every caregiver deserves support regardless of their ability to pay, and we strive to remove financial barriers to healing.
Upcoming Meeting CalendarAn opportunity to network with a like-minded community of fellow caregivers with similar lived experiences
A safe space to discuss challenges you’re experiencing as you support your child on their healing journey
Access to The Buckeye Ranch’s Peer Support Liaison as you navigate your family’s healing journey
Guided conversations offering tools and insights for personal mental health support
A chance for resource sharing so you can learn more about other supports across our community
Celebrations of big and small wins, and regular reminders that you’re not alone
Jack Bennett is a dedicated human services professional with over five years of experience at The Buckeye Ranch, supporting both Residential Treatment Services and Community-Based Mental Health Services. His career has been marked by a deep commitment to supporting at-risk youth and families, particularly those navigating complex systems such as juvenile justice, child protection, and community mental health in Franklin County.
Currently serving as a Peer Support Liaison, Jack brings a unique and invaluable perspective to his work. Drawing on his lived experience as a caregiver in kinship care, he provides compassionate, relatable guidance to families facing challenges similar to those he once navigated himself. His ability to connect with others through authenticity and understanding makes him a trusted advocate and bridge between caregivers, youth, and service systems.
Throughout his time at The Buckeye Ranch, Jack has earned a reputation for relationship-building, resilience, and a strong sense of purpose. His work continues to center on empowering others, fostering hope, and helping families access the resources they need to thrive.
Sheri Dunagan is the co-founder of REAL TALK, Real Support, a peer-led social-emotional support group for parents and caregivers of children facing mental health challenges. A certified Family Peer Supporter and passionate mental health advocate — especially for youth — Sheri is committed to creating spaces where caregivers feel seen, supported, and never alone.
She co-facilitates REAL TALK meetings alongside her husband and co-founder, Christopher. Drawing from their shared lived experience and a deep belief in the power of community, they provide a welcoming space where families can speak freely, find understanding, and move from surviving to thriving.
REAL TALK, Real Support is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting parents and caregivers of children with mental health challenges. Through honest conversations, peer support, and practical resources, REAL TALK, Real Support creates a judgment-free space where families can connect, share experiences, and find encouragement.
In addition to direct support, REAL TALK, Real Support is committed to community outreach, regularly engaging in local events, and collaborating with school districts to provide resources and guidance for families. Through these efforts, the organization helps break stigma, foster understanding, and ensure every caregiver has access to the support they need.
To learn more about Caregiver Peer Support Groups at The Buckeye Ranch, reach out to us today at caregiverpeersupport@buckeyeranch.org.