Paul Theodore, MSW, LSW, Community Director

Paul Theodore was born and raised in a full-blooded Italian household, with 3 siblings, in Youngstown, Ohio. He is currently residing in Westlake, Oh and is happily married to his wife Amber of 3 years and excitedly awaiting the arrival of their first baby in the spring of 2010. 

Education: High School Diploma from Boardman High School in Youngstown, OH.  Undergraduate Degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University; Graduate Degree in Social Work from Cleveland State University; holds his License in social work and is currently working on earning hours for his Clinical License in Social Work.  Recently completed the Treu-Mart Fellowship program for Youth Resiliency through Case Western Reserve University.

Work Experience: Paul is currently the Community Director for Open Doors.  He has worked for Open Doors for the last two years, starting off as a Program Coordinator and recently transitioning into the Community Director position.  Prior to belonging to the Open Doors family he had over 4 years of experience working in youth serving agencies with children ranging from 6-18 years of age.    

Hobbies and Interests: Fitness Trainer, Marathon Competitor, Reading, getting into the word, playing the drums

Special Talents: Making my mom's homemade spaghetti sauce and driving my wife crazy by making up words to popular songs

Favorite quote: Be the change that you want to see in the world. ~Ghandi

Why working in the youth field: Because I love children and always have.  I have always been surrounded by them, my mom ran a day care out of our home, my wife is a nanny and we always babysit for her families, we help run the children's ministry at our church...its our life.  Plus, I am a big kid myself and can easily relate to them.  The bottom line is kids have it rough these days and I don't feel right standing around and not doing something about it.  I am fortunate to have a great life and feel it's my obligation to give back, guide them down the right path, and give them the love and support that they need, want, and deserve.