Van Wert County Board of Developmental Disabilities

01/13/2026

The NOWAC County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (Van Wert, Paulding, Putnam, Henry, Defiance, Fulton, and Williams) have invited Attorney Derek Graham to offer a virtual program on special needs planning. This free program will cover strategies to help plan for the future of a loved one with a disability. The presentation is being held over Zoom on Tuesday, February 3rd at 6:30pm. This is a great way for families to get information firsthand from an attorney and ask any questions. Registration is required.
Click here to hold your spot at this unique educational opportunity: https://shorturl.at/8P4kI

01/12/2026

🚌 Public Transportation is coming to Van Wert through a $72,000 OneOhio grant spearheaded by First United Methodist Church and a partnership with RTA of Lima.
Save these dates:
✅ Jan 15 – Discovery Day: See the buses in person around town and take a FREE test ride to see how easy it is to use.
✅ Jan 19 – Official Launch: Public micro-transit officially goes live in Van Wert!
How it works: It’s like a community ride-share. You can request a door-to-door ride via an app or phone call.
Cost: Only $3 for a one-way trip ($6–$12 for country routes).
Purpose: Work, doctor appointments, grocery shopping, or the food pantry.
Bridging the Gap will be using grant funds in creative ways such as providing bus passes or other transportation needs (gas, car repair, etc). These will evolve over the next few months.

Interested in learning more about the NEW Van Wert County transportation services? Please join us tomorrow for a "practice" day to experience how microtransit and demand response services will work. It's free and open to the public. A second session will be held next week on Jan. 15, as well. Questions? Call RTA at 419-222-2782.

01/01/2026

12/17/2025

Take a night off from cooking and support a good cause. Dine at Beer Barrel tonight from 5pm-8pm and support Van Wert County Special Olympics. 🍕🥤

We are so thankful to Beer Barrel Pizza & Grill for hosting a Dine and Donate to help us raise money for Winter Games❄️

Please join us on December 17 from 5-8 at Beer Barrel in Van Wert. Mention you are their dine and donate and then just enjoy your meal!

Hope to see you there🍕

12/17/2025

💛 The first years of a child’s life are filled with tiny moments that shape their entire future. Early Intervention walks alongside families during these moments – celebrating first signs, first words, first connections, and supporting parents when challenges feel overwhelming.

The story in this article beautifully highlights what happens when families, providers, and community partners come together: children grow, families feel empowered, and hope becomes tangible. Read the full story here: https://www.groundworkohio.org/post/early-intervention-is-a-strong-investment-for-ohio-s-children

We’re honored to support families in our county every day. If you have questions about your child’s development, we’re here for you.

Real-life stories show Early Intervention transforms lives. Ohio’s commitment is helping families thrive each day.

12/15/2025

The winter months pose additional risks due to inclement weather and cold conditions. The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities has put out a Health and Welfare Alert for professionals supporting people with developmental disabilities.

VWCBDD staff want you and the individuals you assist to stay safe with these helpful tips!

12/13/2025

12/12/2025

11/17/2025

County Board Superintendents from Ohio Senate District 1, along with representatives from NOWAC and Ohio Association of County Boards of DD had the opportunity to meet with Ohio Senate President Rob McColley to discuss key issues impacting people with developmental disabilities and the systems that support them. The group discussed the critical role of property tax revenues in funding county board services and emphasized that any reduction in property taxes could jeopardize essential supports for individuals with developmental disabilities.

11/15/2025