Who We Are

Shelter Care’s mission is carried out by dedicated staff who serve individuals and families each day, supported by a committed Board of Directors. Our history and founder, Dave Fair, continue to inspire the work we do today.

Our History and Founder, Dave Fair

The Beginning

Dave Fair founded Shelter Care in the fall of 1972, but those who knew him would say his heart was in this work long before. His journey began with the Chapel at Fir Hill and Summit County Juvenile Court, where he worked for many years.

As a close friend of Juvenile Court Judge William P. Kannel, Dave noticed a rising number of youth coming to court for non-delinquent charges — especially those running away from homes marked by conflict, neglect, or abuse. Judge Kannel trusted Dave to create an alternative program for these youth, one that offered safety and care rather than punishment. With the Chapel’s support, Dave opened a home in Akron, marking the start of the Shelter Home Program.

Safe Landing

In 1978, the Junior League operated a shelter for runaway teens but believed Dave could serve more youth if the program merged with Shelter Care, since licensure was already secured. With help from board member Sandra Dawson, the Safe Landing Program was created. Currently, there is one shelter for boys and another shelter for girls.

Respite Care Program

The Respite Care Program provides planned periods of respite for up to four days to strengthen and keep families together. This short-term residential program consists of multiple homes for scheduled respite and crisis stabilization for youth ages 6 to 17 who are living with their parent/guardian.

The Highlands Teen Pregnancy Shelter

In 2005, Shelter Care established the Highlands Teen Pregnancy Shelter — the only licensed program of its kind in Ohio — at the request of Summit County Children Services. The program served homeless or at-risk teen girls who were pregnant or parenting a child under three.

Street Outreach Services (SOS)

In 2008, Shelter Care established Street Outreach Services: a multifaceted program providing street-based and site-based outreach, case management, and need-specific services through its four unique programs located in the Drop-In Center.

Outpatient Counseling Center

Shelter Care, Inc. Outpatient Counseling Center is a community-based counseling practice in Tallmadge and home to a team of highly skilled mental health professionals. Our goal is to provide high quality, individualized, mental health services to individuals, families, and couples.

Continuing Dave’s Vision

From its beginnings in 1972 to today’s programs, Shelter Care continues to carry forward the mission of its founder, Dave Fair: to provide healing, restore hope and recognize the value of young people and families in need.

Reflections on Dave from Staff, Board Members, and Friends

“What a tender and determined servant-hearted man! I was so thankful to him for giving me a chance over 15 years ago, and for the privilege of knowing him and his heart for people.”

“What a tremendous role model he has been to us. His wisdom, faith, and well-timed sense of humor will be missed, yet his lessons truly will live on.”

“Dave mentored me at the most critical points of my life.”

“Dave is now seeing everything he believed. He is experiencing the evidence of things hoped for. He is healed and walking on streets of gold!”

“I am a better father, counselor, and friend because of Dave.”

“Dave’s Godly character was evident to all and his reputation stellar.”

“He was a giant man of character and passion for others.”

“Dave was one of the nicest people I have ever met. Always a kind word, always asked about my family, always so gentle.”

"Dave was especially compassionate to the young people who suffer through life’s sometimes awful trials. He led a tireless ministry in Shelter Care through his dedication to serving children and families."