Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities

04/21/2026

We’re continuing our National Library Week celebrations by donating books that spotlight characters with disabilities, offer educational insights, promote accessibility, and foster community inclusion.

Recently, we had the opportunity to donate two more books:

📚 Harbor-Topky Memorial Library – "The Autism and Neurodiversity Self-Advocacy Handbook" by Barb Cook and Yenn Purkis was presented by advocates from Active Day Ashtabula offering practical tools to help people understand their rights, communicate their needs, and build confidence in advocating for themselves.

📚 Rock Creek Public Library, Adaptive Sports & Recreation by Kacie Short was presented by Luka from our Early Intervention Department, alongside his brother Vincent and mom, Lydia. This book highlights how inclusive sports and activities create opportunities for people of all abilities to stay active, build confidence, and connect with others.

Each book we share helps build understanding, confidence, and opportunities for people of all abilities in our community. More visits and stories to come. We hope you’ll follow along and enjoy these books with us!

04/21/2026

This month’s Abilities Enhanced Segment highlights Peggy, who brings dedication, energy, and heart to everything she does. She takes pride in her work, stays active in a wide range of community and athletic opportunities, and continues to grow through learning and advocacy. Whether she’s contributing at work, engaging in local activities, or spending time with her beloved cat, Buttercup, Peggy shows what it means to live a life centered on independence, involvement, and doing what you love.

04/20/2026

In celebration of National Library Week, the Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities is once again hitting the road to visit all nine public libraries across the county!

We kicked off the week with our first stops at the Henderson Library-Jefferson, OH and the Ashtabula County District Library's Ashtabula Branch, where we donated two meaningful stories that celebrate differences and inclusion.

"Novah Shines Because Different is Unforgettable" by Jenna Thompson was shared with the Henderson Memorial Public Library. This was an extra special visit as Novah herself was able to join us!

A special thank you to the advocates from Achieving Dreams LLC for joining us in presenting "A Seaside Sleepover" by Jacqueline Wilson to the Ashtabula Public Library.

Stay tuned as we make our way across Ashtabula County one library and one story at a time!

04/20/2026

Join us today, Monday, April 20th, for the Ashtabula Playgroup!

This group is designed for children ages 0–5, this free playgroup gives little ones a chance to play, explore, and build friendships while parents and caregivers connect with one another.

⏰ 4:00–5:00 PM
📍 Ashtabula County Board of DD (2505 South Ridge Rd. East, Ashtabula)

Bring your little ones for an hour of fun, connection, and plenty of space to play. Snacks will be provided.

04/19/2026

Property taxes are a real concern for Ohio families—but eliminating them without a clear replacement puts critical local services at risk. For people with developmental disabilities, property taxes fund the majority of services provided by county boards—often 75% to 85% of local budgets. These supports help nearly 117,000 Ohioans live and thrive in their communities.

OACB is proud to have co-founded a statewide coalition that is raising awareness and educating voters about the danger of eliminating property taxes in Ohio. Watch the video below to learn what could be impacted—from disability services to schools, first responders, and senior care.
https://www.protectpublicservices.org/

04/18/2026

There is still time to stop by the Ashtabula County Family YMCA Healthy Kids Day. We would love to see you!

04/18/2026

04/17/2026

Earlier this week, ACBDD partnered with Kingsville Public Library Ohio to host a fun-filled Video and Board Game Event, with sessions both during the day and in the evening. From rounds of Uno to friendly competition on Mario Smash Bros and more, the room was full of energy, laughter, and connection.

Be sure to join us for our next Game Night on May 28th, more details coming soon!

04/16/2026

Our April Cookie Connection was filled with baking, teamwork, and community connection!

Advocates from Achieving Dreams LLC joined us for a fun and meaningful morning at the Ashtabula County District Library's Geneva Branch, where we baked together alongside our community baker, Red from AM Ford.

Together, we made Puppy Chow and Chocolate Chip cookies to share with His Helping Hands food ministry. From mixing and measuring to laughing and learning together, it was a great reminder of the impact that can happen when people come together in the community.

Thank you to our community baker, Red, for sharing your time and talents, and to our advocates for bringing such great energy and teamwork to the day.

A special thank you to the Geneva Public Library for welcoming us into your space and helping make this event possible!

Spreading kindness, one cookie at a time, making our community a little sweeter along the way.

04/16/2026

Reminder: The Ashtabula County Board of Developmental Disabilities will hold its regular monthly board meeting on Thursday, April 16th at 6:00 PM. The meeting will take place at the Board office located at 2505 South Ridge Road East, Kingsville, in conference room 110A.

In accordance with new legislation, one board member will be attending remotely this month. As a result, community members also have the option to attend the meeting via Zoom. To attend virtually, use the following meeting link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/87886704969

04/15/2026

Week 3 of Improv to Advocacy built on all the energy from previous sessions as advocates focused on communication and storytelling!

Through new improv activities, participants practiced sharing their thoughts more clearly, listening to others, and turning everyday moments into meaningful stories. Each scene gave them the chance to think creatively, express themselves, and strengthen how they connect with others.

We also want to take a moment to appreciate Liz from The Improvaneer Method as she continues to guide, encourage, and bring out the best in every participant through this experience.

We are so proud of the growth we’re seeing as everyone continues building confidence and finding their voice in new ways. As we wrap up Improv to Advocacy next week, we’re looking forward to celebrating everything learned in our final session!

04/15/2026

Join us this Friday for our virtual session, All Things Autism – Technology: “From Accessibility to Independence”!

* Friday, April 17
* 12:00 PM
* Zoom Link: https://us02web.zoom.us/j/3377398015?omn=87827065325

Learn how both low-tech and high-tech tools can support independence and everyday life. This is a great opportunity to connect with fellow caregivers and gain easy, effective tips.

Register here: https://t.ly/PHR24
Or scan the QR code in the flyer

We hope to see you there!