Ohio Association of County Boards of DD

08/21/2025

The Trumbull County Board of Developmental Disabilities Transportation Department partnered with their local fire department this week for a hands-on safety drill in Howland. Staff practiced bus fire and rollover evacuations, including how to safely assist students in specialized safety seating. This annual training ensures TCBDD drivers and aides are prepared to keep students safe in emergency situations! 👏

Read the full story here:

Teams were able to simulate how students in safety seating could be evacuated safely, and how to conduct an evacuation where a fire is present during a school bus rollover.

08/15/2025

The Arc is sharing tips to help families of children with disabilities start the school year strong! A new year brings excitement, along with unique challenges and opportunities. By encouraging open conversations, connecting early with teachers, fostering self-advocacy, and celebrating progress, families can set a positive tone that lasts all year.

Read more here:

At The Arc, we know that proper preparation can make all the difference in your child's growth and success. Here are some practical tips to help you and your child start the school year off right and carry that momentum throughout the year.

08/13/2025

The 2025 American Women Quarter celebrates Stacey Park Milbern, a visionary disability justice activist, writer, and community builder. Born in Seoul, South Korea, and raised in North Carolina, Stacey was diagnosed with congenital muscular dystrophy and grew into a fierce advocate for disability rights, q***r liberation, and intersectional justice.

From co-founding the disability justice movement as a teen, to leading mutual aid efforts during the pandemic, Stacey’s work empowered those often pushed to the margins. She described herself as a “crip ancestor in training” — a guiding light for future generations.

The quarter’s reverse shows Stacey speaking to an audience, her open-hand gesture symbolizing the exchange of ideas and the building of allyship. Her life reminds us that inclusion, advocacy, and community care can transform the world.

Learn more about Milbern here: https://www.womenshistory.org/education-resources/biographies/stacey-park-milbern

08/11/2025

Traveling through Washington or Belmont counties? Ohio’s newly renovated welcome centers along I-77 northbound in Washington County and I-70 westbound and eastbound in Belmont County now feature universal changing stations in private family restrooms!

These adult-sized, adjustable tables provide a safe and dignified option for people with disabilities, older adults, and anyone with medical needs, making Ohio travel more inclusive for all.

Read more about the new spaces here:

DeWine unveiled new highway facilities on I-70 and I-77, part of Ohio’s plan to add 36 rest stops and upgrade 40 more as traffic is expected to surge.

08/08/2025

WTVG’s live morning show recently welcomed Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities Community Inclusion Manager Lori Balogh and filmmaker Corey C. to share the excitement about the upcoming 11th Annual Community Film Fest! Corey even gave viewers a sneak peek of his festival entry.

Learn more about the film fest, happening Aug. 17, by watching the interview here: https://www.13abc.com/video/2025/08/06/community-film-fest-maumee-indoor/

08/07/2025

Thanks to the Miami County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the WestCON Council of Governments, a new accessible restroom trailer with a universal changing table is available at this year’s Miami County Fair near the poultry barn August 8-14, from 8 a.m. – 8 p.m. daily!

“We want everyone—from adults with disabilities to seniors and veterans—to enjoy community events with dignity and ease,” said Miami DD Superintendent Brian Green.

Learn more here: https://miamivalleytoday.com/accessible-restroom-trailer-available-at-miami-county-fair/.

08/06/2025

The 2025 OACB Policy and Budget Symposium kicked off early on August 6 in Dublin! This year’s Symposium brought together county board leaders from across Ohio for a powerful day of policy insight, forward-thinking discussion, and statewide collaboration.

The day began with a budget overview from OACB’s Jake Dowling, who broke down key wins in the newly passed state budget and how they’ll impact county boards in the years ahead.

Next, Jonah Cunningham (NACBHDD) joined us for Federal Updates, covering the latest on the FY25 Budget Reconciliation Bill, federal agency funding, and what it all means for Ohio’s DD system.

Later, Monica Juenger (OACB) and Dave Salisbury (Statehouse Impact Group) explored What’s Coming Over the Next 18 Months — highlighting major state policy proposals on the horizon and how the upcoming 2026 gubernatorial election may shape our future.

Thank you to our speakers, attendees, and partners for making this a dynamic and engaging event!

08/01/2025

Big news in Butler County! MetroParks has launched a new Accessibility Guide AND unveiled the first universal changing table in the county—now available at Voice of America Park.

This major step toward inclusion was made possible through a partnership with the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities, which helped shape the guide and funded the new feature using ARPA funds.

Learn more:

Butler County hasn't had a publicly accessible universal changing station — until now.

07/31/2025

Superintendent Ed Stark of the Trumbull County Board of Developmental Disabilities spoke with local news about the county’s efforts to implement this important statewide initiative.

The Blue Envelope Program is designed to improve safety and communication during traffic stops involving people with developmental disabilities, helping everyone feel more prepared and supported. Trumbull DD will be kicking off the program on August 9 at the Ability Walk and Roll event.

Learn more about the program and watch the interview here:

07/22/2025

Three Trackers of Ohio invites people of all ages and abilities to hit the water in North Ridgeville on Saturday, August 2, for a day of adaptive water skiing, connection, and fun!

This empowering event welcomes participants with spinal cord injuries, amputations, and other physical disabilities. For just $40, skiers receive all equipment, volunteer support, and lunch for themselves and their families.

Learn more: www.3trackers.org

07/21/2025

Congratulations to the Champaign County Board of Developmental Disabilities on earning a three-year accreditation — the highest level awarded by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities!

This recognition reflects the board’s strong commitment to person-centered services, community inclusion, and meaningful relationships with the people they serve. Way to go, Champaign DD!

Read more here: https://www.urbanacitizen.com/2025/07/17/champaign-county-board-of-dd-earns-top-state-accreditation/

07/18/2025

Speak up to protect disability services in Ohio!

More than 40,000 Ohioans rely on life-changing programs like the UCEDDs and Disability Rights Ohio (DRO) for support with health care, education, housing, legal rights, and more. Now, Congress is considering cuts that would threaten these vital services.

Your voice matters! Contact your representatives today and share your story about how these programs have made a difference in your life or community. Personal stories can help lawmakers understand what’s at stake.

Don’t wait—tell Congress to fully fund and protect disability services. Say NO to cuts that would harm Ohioans with disabilities! Learn more and take action here: https://secure.everyaction.com/3m4Mh5xAbkWFUlgvKoQK_A2