Upcoming things to sign up to get involved with or make your voice heard thru surveys and public comment!

• Disability Rights Ohio Is doing their annual survey of needs click this link to take the survey.
• Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities is asking people to take a survey on self direction for waiver participants. Click on this link to do the survey.
• Tell us: What are your favorite ways to relax or practice self-care? Share your stories here.
  If you need to use the form differently, feel free to send attachments, pictures, or videos to nathan.turner@dodd.ohio.gov
• The Ohio Medicaid Matters Coalition is looking for personal stories by people who could be impacted by Medicaid cuts if this is you please check out this link to learn how to submit your story. https://www.ohiomedicaidmatters.org
• The Ohio State University (OSU) Nisonger Center is doing research on the health, mental health, and wellness of adults with intellectual disability (ID). We need to learn more so that we can improve services.
  This study includes online interviews with adults with ID and their chosen study partners. The study should take about 3 hours. For doing the study, each participant and their study partner will each receive $100.
  To SIGN UP: Call 1-833-678-7782
• SHARE YOUR STORY, HELP FIGHT HUNGER! Poetry Is Life Publishing is compiling community poems and letters representing voices in our region from eight counties (Carroll, Holmes, Medina, Portage, Stark, Summit, Tuscarawas, and Wayne) who have experienced hunger. What do you crave from your community? Food, love, family, friendship, hope, peace, equality. Have you experienced hunger? What was it like? Submit your poem, letter or story for the opportunity to be included in the book. A portion of book sales will benefit the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank. The deadline to submit is June 30, 2025.
  For more information please reach out by email at poetryislifepublishing@gmail.com
• 2025 Disability/Deaf and Abuse Survey
  This national survey seeks to enhance our understanding of the prevalence of abuse— including sexual abuse, physical assault, coercion, harassment, and exploitation—among individuals with disabilities, as well as those who are Deaf, Hard of Hearing, or Deaf-Blind.
  Your experience matters. The findings will help us develop research, interventions, and policy recommendations to advocate for strengthening protections against abuse and improving support for survivors. Click this link to take the survey.
• Make your Voice Heard to share in a survey feedback about the PCA Match app through Public Consulting Group.
• 5 Minutes. 3 Actions. 1 Voice for Disability Rights.
  Speak Up Now: Protect Disability Access Rights!
  https://nacdd.org/5-minutes-3-actions-1-voice-for-disability-rights/
  There are TWO public comment opportunities that need the attention of the disability community.
  🌟 Public Comment One: Protect Disability Access Rights! – The U.S. Department of Energy is trying to eliminate important disability protections. The department is trying to change part of Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act that ensures new buildings are accessible to people with disabilities. This move could set a dangerous precedent. If they succeed, other federal agencies might try to do the same. This will weaken protections that millions rely on.
  🌟 Public Comment Two: Direct final rule on nondiscrimination – The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) wants to remove 12 civil rights rules. Part of these 12 are disability access protections. They say the rules are “unnecessary,” “outdated,” or not supported by law. They are using a fast-track process called a “direct final rule.”
  This is urgent! If thousands do not make comments, the rule will take effect July 15, 2025.
  The deadline to submit your comment(s) is Monday, June 16th at 11:59 PM EDT.
  Take Action Now!
  It only takes a few seconds: https://nacdd.org/5-minutes-3-actions-1-voice-for-disability-rights/

Events around Ohio to check out week of June 23 2025 to June 28 2025

Monday June 23rd 2025

• All-Abilities Adventure, Monday, Jun 23 · 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Dayton Metro Library – Miamisburg Branch, 545 E Linden Ave, Miamisburg, OH 45342
• We Thrive Together Wellness: Exercises for All Abilities 11:00-12:00pm click this link to join the event.
• The Electronic Visit Verification (EVV) Stakeholder Workgroup will meet virtually on Monday, June 23 from 2:30 – 4 p.m. This meeting is an opportunity to engage in meaningful discussion about enhancing and improving the EVV program in Ohio.
  During the June 23 meeting, we will:
  Highlight recent updates to the content and structure of the EVV website.
  Gather input on additional resources or improvements you’d like to see.
  Click the link to register!
• Building Personal Networks of Support(4) Week Workshop 4:00-5:00pm to Register for this workshop check out this link . This workshop is for self advocates and families. Description: BUILDING PERSONAL NETWORKS (BPN)
  Do you want to be more connected and supported, but aren’t sure where to start?
  Join us, roll up your sleeves, and let’s build your personal network together!
  WHAT IS BPN?
  BPN is about creating community.
  It is an opportunity to:
  Focus on relationships that foster connection and growth.
  Identify key individuals who can play supportive roles.
  Plan with your loved one at the center of the process.

Tuesday June 24th 2025

• We Thrive Together Tech Talk: Mainstream Accessible Technologies with Wood County DD 11:00am to 12:00pm click this link to join the event.
• ASPE State Policy Coffee Talk, Tuesday, Jun 24 · 3–4 PM, Repeats every month on the last Tuesday
• Nissonger-Family Resource Network Of Ohio CLTC. 1-hour Session, Tuesday, Jun 24 · 3:00-4:00pm Don’t miss our empowering 1-hour live session on Charting the LifeCourse! This event is a fantastic opportunity for individuals and families who want to explore how this framework can help achieve a good life. Spread the word and invite your friends and family too! There will be a 1-Hour CEU Available upon completion of the full 60-minute session.
  You can register for the session by clicking here:
  
• Breaking Silences Advocacy Meeting 3pm contact Maria.Matzik@acils.com for more information.

Wednesday June 25th 2025

• OSDA at We Thrive Together 11am https://wethrivetogether.org/upcoming-event
• Time2Thrive, Wednesday, Jun 25 · 12:30–2:30 PM, Repeats every week, until Wednesday, Aug 6 FREE! Summer education enrichment for ages 13-16; Developed and led by an Intervention Specialist & an Occupational Therapist, this program offers your child engaging educational activities aimed at acquiring and strengthening essential skills. Time2Thrive is designed to combat “summer learning loss” and fosters continuous development for a lifetime of learning. This program is offered on Tuesdays and Wednesdays from 12:30-2:30 pm for 8 weeks. Siblings 11 and older are welcome to attend, too. RSVP to gina@dsaneo.org
• Webinar: Issues Facing LGBTQ+ Older Adults in 2025 and Beyond, Wednesday, Jun 25 · 3:00-4:00pm click this link to Register for the event.

Thursday June 26th 2025

• Ohio ISP Statewide Gathering, Thursday, Jun 26 · 10:00-11:00am Attention: Qualified Intellectual Disability Professionals, Service and Support Administrators
  Join the OhioISP team for an informative and engaging statewide webinar on Thursday, June 26, at 10:00 AM. The OhioISP Team will provide an overview of the recent changes to the Major Unusual Incidents (MUI) rule and explore how these updates align with and connect to the OhioISP.
  Additionally, the team will highlight key accomplishments from the year so far and offer a preview of upcoming initiatives and priorities.
  Don’t miss this opportunity to stay informed and connected!
  Register for event through this link
  If you have any questions or need accommodations, please email OhioISP@dodd.ohio.gov
• Capital City Crusaders Advocacy Meeting, Thursday, Jun 26 · 11:00 AM–12:00 PM 167 W Main St
  Chillicothe, OH 45601, USA
• Tech Talk: Getting a Job Indeed Resume Builder Help 11:00am to 12:00 pm click this link to join the event.
• Medicare 101 Workshop 1:00-2:00 pm. Check out this eventbrite link for more information.

Friday June 27th 2025

• Services For Independent Living, Connect And Conversation, Friday, Jun 20 · 11 AM–12 PM Connect with Conversation June Topic: Assistive Technology that helps with Independent Living
  June 20th from 11:00am-12:00pm
  RSVP to Maddi Steimle at 216-903-2469 or msteimle@sil-oh.org

Saturday June 28 2025

• Summer Deaf Kids Events 10:00am-12:00pm 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati, OH 45215-1117, United States check out this Facebook link to learn more

Helpful Information by National, State and County Agencies and Organizations for People to Read

• Did you know the American Printing House for the Blind has partnered with Dolly Parton’s Imagination Library of Ohio to provide six free Print/Braille books a year to children with low vision or blindness until the child’s sixth birthday? The Braille Tales program is open to all U.S. residents and parents of children with low vision can learn more about the program at the following website. https://ow.ly/YBhA50VTZAY
• Are you a caregiver for an older Ohioan? Are you familiar with Adult Day services? Visit the new website http://AdultDayOhio.org to learn about how Adult Day services can support you and your loved one.
  Read: http://aging.ohio.gov/AdultDayOhio
• Know Your Rights: Communication Disability Law
  People with a medically diagnosed communication disability can voluntarily enroll in a database linked to Ohio’s Law Enforcement Agencies Data System (LEADS). 
  This helps notify officers during traffic stops that someone in the vehicle may have difficulty communicating, promoting safer, more informed interactions. It’s free, optional, and designed to reduce misunderstandings. 
  Learn more about the Communication Disability Law and download the Communication Visor Card here.
• 📢 Thanks to recent grants awarded to Council on Aging, our home52 Transportation service is now offering no-cost rides for medical and other purposes to disabled Hamilton County residents age 18+ who meet income guidelines.
  home52 Transportation provides door-through-door services utilizing specialized vehicles and trained providers to ensure safe rides for adults with varying needs. 🚗
  Review requirements to qualify for this grant-funded transportation and download a registration form: https://bit.ly/3FmqyJF.
  Those who aren’t eligible for grant-funded rides may pay privately. Call our coordination center to get pricing for your ride at (855) 546-6352..
• Veterans who need nursing home care but prefer living at home can enroll in the Veterans Directed Care Program at WRAAA. This program lets veterans hire personal direct-care workers, giving them more control over their long-term care. More details here: https://bit.ly/3XcvbMT
• Updates to the Waiting List Assessment Rule
  Attention: All County Boards, Service and Support Administrators, Councils of Governments
  The DODD Medicaid Development and Administration (MDA) division has updated the Comprehensive Guide for Waiting List Assessmentto coordinate with updates to the waiting list assessment rule (OAC 5123-9-04). These updates will be effective July 1, 2025. 
   
  MDA held webinars in May to support assessors with completing the WLA on the new assessment platform. A recording of these webinars can be found on the current and immediate needs webpage. Click hereto access the recording.
   
  For questions, please email WLA@dodd.ohio.gov
• Registration is now open for The Arc of Ohio 2025 Summer Conference!
  Friday, July 25, 2025
  Sponsorships have made it possible for very affordable registration.
  Register Here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/the-arc-of-ohio-2025-summer-conference-tickets-1371627588039?aff=oddtdtcreator
  The Agenda was created before the annoucement of Director Hauck’s retirement. We hope to introduce the new director at this conference.
  The Arc of Ohio Summer Conference
  Friday, July 25, 2025
  Hollywood Casino Event Center
  200 Georgesville Rd.
  Columbus, Ohio 43228
  9:00 – 10:00 am Registration – Breakfast Included
  10:00 am Fedderal Initiatives and Their Impact on Ohioans – Medicaid to Education
  Katy Neas, CEO – The Arc of the United States
  The current CEO of The Arc of the US, former Deputy Assistant Secretary of the US Department of Education and long-time federal lobbyist, will present the current state of what we can expect as Congress debates the future funding of Medicaid, Waivers and Special Education.
  11:00 am – Noon Ohio’s New State Budget – How does it affect Ohioans with Developmental Disabilities?
  Director- Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities
  A new state budget begins on July 1, 2025. The new DODD Director and staff will provide insight into what this budget holds in store for Ohioans with developmental disabilities and their families.
  Noon LUNCH – Included in Registration
  1:00- 2:00 pm Rules and What’s Ahead
  Allan Showalter, Deputy Director – Medicaid Administration & Development, Ohio Department of DD & Team
  The Ohio Department of DD is required to issue administrative rules to implement both Home & Community Based Waivers and Intermediate Care Facilities. New rules became effective on July 1st and other rules are still in development for this year and next. The speakers will discuss these and be available to answer questions.
  2:00 – 3:00 pm Ohio Rise (Resilience through Integrated Systems & Excellence)
  Aetna Ohio Rise Leadership Team
  Ohio RISE and the specialized managed care program is making major strides in supporting more youth and families in need. More Ohio children than ever are being supported through a program that coordinates community resources to provide the best possible care for kids facing complex mental and behavioral health needs. The Aetna Ohio Rise Leadership Team will provide an overview of the program and provide an opportunity for feedback of what is working and not working.
• Ohio has announced its 2025 sales tax holiday, which will run for two weeks this year. https://nbc4i.co/43yipK1?utm_medium=social&utm_source=facebook_NBC4
• The Family Caregiver Support Program (FCSP) supports family and informal caregivers in caring for loved ones at home. You’re a family caregiver if you help care for an older relative, spouse, or loved one. For free information and referrals for in-home care, respite, adult day programs, and more, go to: https://bit.ly/3NN8Joa or give us a call at 216-586-3441.
• The 2025 WRAAA Five-County Transportation Guide helps older adults, individuals living with disabilities, and caregivers find transportation options for individuals from Cuyahoga, Geauga, Lake, Lorain and Medina counties. Order or download free copies today through this link .
• Step Into Autism Walk Stark County 10:00 check out this event link more through this Facebook post.

This Month in Awareness

• Pride Month
• Alzheimer’s & Brain Awareness Month
• National Migraine & Headache Awareness Month
• Men’s Health Awareness Month
• National Cancer Survivors Month
• National Age Without Apology Month
• PTSD Awareness Month

For more events check out our main website OhioAdvocacyHeartbeat.com