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

• The Synergy Committee is seeking nominations for several awards that will be given out at the SYNERGY Conference in October. This is YOUR chance to nominate ANYONE who is making a difference! It is important to take the time to recognize outstanding people that go above and beyond. Who can be nominated in each of the award categories? EVERYONE! It can be an advocate, family member, person served, local partner, a provider or DSP, a county board staff person, a teacher, legislator, a community member, an employer, or anyone else who you think is deserving of one of these awards. DEADLINE FOR ALL NOMINATIONS IS JULY 31st.
  SUBMIT YOUR NOMINATION USING THE LINK BELOW:
  https://conta.cc/4jM40QK
• 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.
• 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
• 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 30th 2025 to July 13th 2025

Monday June 30th 2025

• DODD Announces Keeping Families Together: Stories of Family Resiliency Webinar, Monday, Jun 30th 12:00pm-1:00pm DODD Announces Keeping Families Together: Stories of Family Resiliency Webinar 
  Attention: County Boards, Councils of Government, Systems of Care Partners
  Learn more about how Governor DeWine’s ‘Keeping Families Together’ (KFT) initiative has impacted communities across Ohio through innovative solutions. Join DODD virtually on June 30 at noon to hear from local leadership and their creative partnerships with DODD. 
  
  Join the Teams meeting 
  Meeting ID: 239 306 445 048 0 
  Passcode: SU2Kv9Bg 
  
  Dial in by phone 
  +1 614-721-2972,,646450878# 
  Phone conference ID: 646 450 878# 
  
  Join on a video conferencing device
  Tenant key: 682042763@t.plcm.vc
  Video ID: 111 212 697 1
• Mental Health Round Table 4:00-6:00pm 611 Walnut St
  Martins Ferry, OH 43935, USA

Tuesday June 1 2025

• Disability Pride Flag Raising, Tuesday, Jul 1 · 11:00 AM–12:00 PM Join the City of Cincinnati as we proudly kick off Disability Pride Month with the Disability Pride Flag Raising Ceremony on Tuesday, July 1, 2025, from 11:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. at Cincinnati City Hall (801 Plum Street, Cincinnati, OH
• Breaking Silences Advocacy Meeting 3pm contact Maria.Matzik@acils.com for more information.
• Neighbors in Action a group for people with disabilities in Hamilton County, Ohio will meet 4:00-5:00 pm they have a special guest Alex Lomicka from Ohio Association of County Boards of DD click this link to join the meeting.

Wednesday July 2 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
• Synergy Accessibility Committee 1215- 1:45pm

July 3-6th

• No Known Events

Monday July 7th 2025

• Careers with Peers Council 6:00-7:30pm 776 N Main St
  Springboro, OH 45066, USA Join us for Careers with Peers Council at Doubleday’s in Springboro on Monday, July 7, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. for a conversation about Professionalism!
  To RSVP, contact Cheri Cummings at (513) 806-8591 or careerswithpeerscouncil@warrencountydd.org
• Mental Health Round Table 4:00-6:00pm 130 Fair Street Barnesville, OH 43713

Tuesday July 8th 2025

• The Basics of Advocacy, Tuesday, Jul 8 · 2:30–3:30 PM Join us and our partners at the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council and Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council for a three part Advocacy Training Series.
  We hope to see you at one or all three! Register here⬇️
  1️⃣ – July 8 – The Basics of Advocacy: https://bit.ly/ats1basics
  2️⃣ – July 9 – The Legislative Process: https://bit.ly/ats2leg
  3️⃣ – July 16 – Engaging with Policymakers: https://bit.ly/ats3ewp
• Celebrating the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA): How Assistive Technology (AT) Supports Daily Life and Work, Tuesday, Jul 8 · 3:00-4:00PM DescriptionJoin the Disability Employment Technical Assistance Center (DETAC) for a special webinar in honor of the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), with a focus on how technology is shaping the future of accessibility. The ADA affirms a simple but powerful principle: Individuals with disabilities who want to work should be able to work. In today’s fast-paced technology-driven world, there have been advancements made with tools to increase accessibility. At the same time, there are basic assistive technology (AT) tools that continue to be overlooked as a solution. The webinar panel from the Assistive Technology Act Technical Assistance and Training Center (AT3 Center) will focus on increasing access to and acquisition of AT tools across the lifespan. The panel will share examples of how AT is that critical bridge to helping break down barriers and provide innovative approaches for one to be more independent within the workplace and the broader community.
  Register through this link for the event.
• SARTEC Plain Language Webinar, Tuesday, Jul 8 · 4:00-5:00pm This is a Webinar for Government and Non-Profits Agencies. Plain language writing makes your work better — and it’s more accessible for people with disabilities and English language learners. Learn the ins and outs of plain language in this webinar. Click on the link to register.
• Disability Q*mmunity, Tuesday, Jul 8 · 6:00- 7:30 PM contact Independence Alliance for more information.

Wednesday July 9th 2025

• Ohio Domestic Violence Network is offering a workshop called Beyond Shelter: Advancing Housing Advocacy for Survivors, Wednesday, Jul 9 · 9:30 AM–3:30 PM please click this link to learn more. There is a fee for the workshop .
• OSDA at We Thrive Together 11am https://wethrivetogether.org/upcoming-event
• Supported Decision Making Network of Ohio 12:00-1:30pm click this link to join the meeting
• 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
• The Legislative Process, Wednesday, Jul 9 · 4:00-5:00pm (See links from previous day. )
• Mental Health Round Table 4-6pm 11:30-1:00pm 155 Clark St.
  Powhatan Point, OH 43942

Thursday July 10th 2025

• First Annual Youth/Young Adults with Disabilities – One Day Event, Thursday, Jul 10 · 12:30–4:00pm Ritter Public Library, 5680 Liberty Ave, Vermilion, OH 44089
• OSDA Creative Changemakers, Thursday, Jul 10 · 4:30–5:30 PM, Repeats every month on the second Thursday ts a group of peers/self-advocates who meet once a month to hang out and talk about issues facing people with disabilities in Ohio This group supported by the Ohio Self-Determination Association. Change Makers was created by and is run by people with disabilities because they wanted to extend their advocacy conversations beyond the COOL meetings. Please Contact one of the emails listed clareschloemer.osda@gmail.com
  nrichards@clearwatercog.org
  osda2011@gmail.com
• Neurodiversity Social for Adults, Thursday, Jul 10 · 4:00 -6:00 PM 519 Wall St
  Cairo, OH 45820, USA
• Disability Rights Peer Support Group, Thursday, Jul 10 · 6:00-7:30 PM contact Independence Alliance for more information.

Friday July 11th 20245

• 35th Anniversary Celebration
  of the Americans with Disabilities Act, Friday, Jul 11 · 6:00-9:00pm Columbus Museum of Art
  480 E Broad St, Columbus, OH 43215, USA SAVE THE DATE
  35th Anniversary Celebration
  of the Americans with Disabilities Act Friday July 11, 2025, 6:00-9PM
  The Columbus Museum of Art,
  480 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215
  Drinks and Hors d’oeuvres
  All are welcome.
  There is no charge for attending this event,however, registration will be required.
  Keynote Speaker:
  Rebecca Cokley,
  Program Officer
  Ford Foundation’s first-ever
  U.S. Disability Rights program
  Link to full bio:
  

Saturday July 12th 2025

• First Annual Disability Pride Month Picnic, Saturday, Jul 12 · 12:00pm-4:00pm Lake Shore Park
  Lakeshore Dr, Ashtabula, OH 44004, USA
• SALUTE Storytellers Live!, Saturday, Jul 12 · 2:00- 3:00 PM The University of Toledo, 2801 Bancroft St, Toledo, OH 43606
• You’re invited to MAKE ‘m SMILE Ohio – the BIGGEST party celebrating kids and adults with disabilities… our VIPs! – and the people who love them!
  ✅ Free fun for the whole family
  ✅ Games, characters, activities, and more
  ✅ Resources, giveaways, and smiles for days!
  📍 Location: Hartville Memorial Park (Hartville, OH)
  📅 Date: Saturday, July 12
  🕘 Time: 11 AM – 3 PM
  Don’t miss this unforgettable day of fun and resources!
  Register your VIP family today: https://nathanielshope.org/our-programs/make-m-smile/ohio/

Sunday July 13th

• 11th Annual All Disabilities Festival, Sunday, Jul 13 · 1:00-5:00pm Columbus, Ohio check out this link to learn more.

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

• ⛑️ Emergency and safety preparedness saves lives – and plans must include everyone.
  For people with disabilities, children, and older adults, accessible preparedness is critical. The United States Department of Justice outlines three key phases of emergency management: preparation, response, and recovery – and all must be accessible.
  ✅ Safety plans should clearly outline procedures.
  ✅ Use multiple alert formats (visual, tactile, etc.).
  ✅ Install accessible alarms and equipment.
  ✅ Train staff in disability etiquette and safety roles.
  ✅ Ensure service animals can evacuate with their owners.
  Tools like stair-climbing wheelchairs and communication aids can make all the difference. Together, we can build a culture of preparedness that protects everyone.
  ➡️ For more info, check out the #AccessibleOhio Safety & Emergency Management resource: link
  AllAboutAccessibility #SafetyFirst
• 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
• 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 .
• Here’s a video about a tool kit on supported decision making.
• Caring for a child with complex needs is 24/7. Respite care can make a difference. 💙
  Here is a fact sheet with helpful information.
  If you need help finding respite care for your child, please reach out to us at Ohio Family to Family.
  Email: Ohiof2f@cchmc.org
  Intake Form
• Want to Help Create Positive Change for Ohioans with Developmental Disabilities?
  Apply to Become an ODDC Council Member!
  ODDC wants members who have personal experience with DD and who understand the needs of their communities. As a Council member appointed by Ohio’s Governor, you will help plan advocacy efforts, support community programs, and work on changes that improve the lives of people with DD and their families.
  Learn more and apply here:
• Did you know you that 24/7 medical support provided by StationMD is a covered service for Ohioans enrolled in the Individual Options, SELF, or Level One waiver?
  StationMD has provided telehealth care for the I/DD community across 22 states since 2016. Their services ensure immediate, expert care without a trip to the ER. All clinicians are trained and specialized in the nuances of working with people with I/DD, including communication differences and co-occurring conditions.
  “They are respectful and value what the person is saying, regardless of how they’re saying it,” said StationMD Account Executive Sarah Davies. “They go the extra mile.”
  Read more about StationMD and the services available in our most recent newsletter: https://bit.ly/4g5ZRqc

This Month in Awareness

• Disability Pride Month
• National Cleft And Craniofacial Awareness And Prevention Month
• National Fragile X Syndrome Awareness Month
• Sarcoma Research Awareness Month
• National Minority Mental Health Awareness Month
• UV. Safety Month
• Juvenile Arthritis Awareness Month
• Blood Cord Awareness Month
• Healthy Vision Month
• National Wheelchair Beautification Awareness Month

For more events check out our main website OhioAdvocacyHeartbeat.com