What started as a simple idea among three Delaware County officials has grown into one of the most praised public service workshops in Ohio. The Good Deeds program, first launched in 2018, is set to return next Tuesday, April 8, at 2:30 PM at SourcePoint: Thrive after 55. The workshop is open to Delaware County residents aged 55 and older, who can join SourcePoint for free and register by calling 740-363-6677.
The program—created by Clerk of Courts Natalie Fravel, County Recorder Melissa Jordan, and Probate Judge David Hejmanowski—aims to demystify the probate court process as it relates to real property records and titled vehicles, helping residents better prepare for the future.
The Power of Partnership: Three Offices, One Mission
The trio behind Good Deeds knew from the beginning that collaboration was key. Each office touches on different aspects of estate planning, but until this workshop series began, those connections were often unclear to residents.
“We want to improve access to the offices that the residents’ tax dollars fund while providing a tangible, real benefit,” said Recorder Melissa Jordan. “Good Deeds does that.”
Workshops have been held all over the county, and the success of the model has drawn attention from leaders across the state. The team has been asked to train other elected officials on how to bring the program to their own counties—something they’ll do again this spring.
Avoiding Probate Pitfalls: Why It Matters
Probate court can be a confusing, often costly process. One of the more surprising aspects covered in Good Deeds is the treatment of titled vehicles—something most residents don’t consider when planning their estates.
“Most people are surprised to learn they might have to go through the probate process over their titled vehicles,” said Clerk Fravel. “During our workshop, we cover exactly what they need to know so they can avoid probate with respect to titled vehicles.”
A Judge’s Perspective: Plan Now, Spare Loved Ones Later
Judge Hejmanowski, who brings years of experience in the probate court, stresses that small steps today can save families time and stress in the future.
“If we can simply encourage people to do simple, relatively inexpensive planning during their lifetime,” he explained, “then they will make the task supremely easier for their loved ones after they’re gone.”
How to Attend
The Good Deeds workshop is being hosted at SourcePoint: Thrive after 55, located in Delaware County. The session begins at 2:30 p.m. on Tuesday, April 8, and is free to residents age 55 and older. Participants must register by calling 740-363-6677.
Whether you’re just beginning to think about your estate or have questions about probate, property, or vehicles, Good Deeds offers the clarity—and the confidence—you need to plan ahead.
