<a href="https://ohioadvocacyheartbeat.com/" title="Ohio Advocacy Heartbeat" rel="home">Ohio Advocacy Heartbeat

This grant helps people with disabilities who need to cover durable medical equipment or medical expenses that aren’t covered by insurance. They have bigger grants for people receive Medicaid and other forms of government assistance. They have grants for people smaller that don’t receive government assistance. The forms are on their website. Next Deadline is September 30th, 2025.

Assistance Programs

Cpap Assistance Program

Cool Phone Apps

This is app for people who use Supported Decision Making. It allows people to invite people to help them complete steps in a decision they want to make.

To Good to Go

This is an app that helps save food. It basically lets people buy that restaurants have at the end of the day for a lower price to not waste food.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC Resources)

Picto4Me – Create and Share Picture Exchange Communication Board
Ohio Developmental Disabilities Communication Boards

Low Cost Things to Do

Dystonia Medical Research Foundation

“Through Museums for All, those receiving food assistance (SNAP benefits) can gain free or reduced admission to more than 1,500 museums throughout the United States simply by presenting their EBT card and a photo ID.”

Ohio Specific Programs

The Ohio Digital Library is a collaborative effort involving libraries across the state of Ohio. Through this initiative, Ohio residents with a valid library card from a participating library can access and borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines for free. Check out more through this link here.
The State Library of Ohio provides access to reading materials to individuals with disabilities through several programs.
The State Library, along with the Cleveland Public Library and the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, provides audio, braille, and downloadable books to eligible residents. In addition, the State Library and the Ohio School for the Deaf partner to provide the Deafness Outreach Collection maintained at the State Library. Find more information through this link
Ohio Housing Locator Tool can be used to find shelters, emergency housing and apartments.
Opportunities to volunteer in Ohio https://ohio.gov/residents/topic-hubs/home-and-community/volunteer/volunteer
Ohio has a database that helps fund training that people need in order to work or maintain a job. Read more through this link
Central Ohio Area on Aging Respite Guide

Resources for Making Events Accessible

Akron Accessibility Library is a community resource for making events accessible from adaptive equipment like portable ramps to a wheelchair you can rent to sensory equipment to even making your programs available in Braille. This resource is free to the community please use this link to check it out!

Resources for the Blind Community

Free literacy program for blind and low-vision children 0-8 years old. Families receive free Braille books, activities, birthday cards, and more. Fill out an application and learn about other resources from National Federation of the Blind online.
200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21230
(410) 659-9314
nfb.org/programs-services/early-childhood-initiatives
National Federation of the Blind Free Braille Slate and Stylus Program https://nfb.org/programs-services/free-slate-and-stylus-program
Hadley Helps Founded in 1920 by William Hadley, an educator who lost his eyesight later in life, Hadley offers practical help, connection and support free of charge to anyone with a visual impairment, their families and professionals supporting them. With Hadley, you can discover new ways to do things that have become more difficult due to vision loss and connect with a network of peers who “get it.” And you don’t need to come to Hadley. Hadley’s help comes to you; online, on the phone or through the mail

Miscellaneous Resources

Build your own family health portrait.

Expertise LLC
1525 4th Avenue Suite #700, Seattle, WA 98101
Expertise.com researched and developed a pretty comprehensive resource for people living with disabilities. The guide aims to help make the federal grants available to seniors, veterans, and disabled people much easier to understand and take advantage of, particularly for remodeling homes for accessibility.
For many people, owning and maintaining a home is one of the most significant investments they ever make. But for individuals and veterans living with disabilities or special needs, or seniors aging in place, the fact that much of the world outside is not built to accommodate their needs magnifies the value of a comfortable home. It’s vital they and their loved ones have access to the best resources about how to make their homes livable and enjoyable.

How using Assisted Technology in Medical Care Makes a Difference by Alicia

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Ohio is a technology first state and encourages people to use technology to be more independent. It is importantly to have discussions on how people use technology to communicate and advocate for their every day needs including how people use technology to speak up in healthcare.

I have a developmental disability and I use an Augmentative Alternative Communication Device (AAC) intermittently to communicate my needs in my heathcare mainly in emergency care. I am able to use this technology to communicate my symptoms, share my pain levels and let people know how I feel overall.

It helps me get what I need without being forced to go thru unnecessary medical care.

I also use it to communicate choices about food and nutrition. I have special needs around food and I use picture exchange communication cards and AAC to tell people what I want and don’t want around food.

One of the ways I have used it the most is to communicate my needs for emergency medication with my disabilities. I have an AAC program I use called Prologue 2 Go and I can program the names and photos of my specific emergency medications into my AAC device and when I can’t speak I can push a button to tell someone I need I need that medication.

I can push a button to say I need my inhaler or my epi pen or my emergency Dystonia medication.

Today in an appointment with my allergy doctor I was able to show my doctor the AAC program that I use to communicate. He was amazed about how technology is being used to communicate in an emergency. If you think about it technology can be used to save lives.

I also have picture exchange communication cards for when the power goes out or my device loses battery that tell people I need my epi pen or I need a specific medication.

It is important for me to use technology to drive my care.

I also use phone apps to track my Dystonia symptoms, seizures and blood pressure.

I use a lot of technology in my every day life. Assisted Technology isn’t just the computer, smart phone or iPad in front of you.

Some people are using assisted technology to help them at home like google or Amazon’s Echo device to help them live at home independently with smart device access for lights and other products.

Some people use assisted technology like remote monitoring to keep them safe when they can’t access in person care providers . A lot of people with disabilities use this form of technology to be independent in their homes.

Assisted technology is a broad category of technology. In my life I consider my power wheelchair and a portable oxygen to be forms of assisted technology that support me in every day life.

My power wheelchair raises up and allows me to reach cabinets in my kitchen and spaces that I wouldn’t be able to access without it. It also has given me a safe way to tilt back and get dental care when I couldn’t access it be before due to inaccessible dental spaces for people in wheelchairs. I get my care while remaining in my wheelchair .

My portable oxygen device gives me life saving oxygen during emergencies while in the community and keeps me out of the emergency room and helps me improve health outcomes.

All around access to assisted technology has changed my life, it can be life changing for people who need to use it to be more independent.

To have a device or piece of equipment or phone or iPad application that allows me to have a voice in my care when I can’t speak through my natural voice has given me opportunities to be a part of decision making and sharing my care needs with providers .

This technology isn’t cheap and advocates are trying to change this. As Ohio promotes technology for independent living we should unite together to advocate for better accessibility in accessing these services and supports.

There is an Ohio Senator from Hudson, Ohio area who is promoting a right to communicate bill for coverage of AAC devices for children with disabilities on Medicaid .

We should also advocate for state wide initiatives that support access to assisted technology to improve one’s quality of life. Being a person who uses an AAC device intermittently I was not able to go through insurance or any grants or assistance programs for my devices or programs. I had to come up with several hundred dollars to access this technology to improve my health outcomes. People with disabilities and families often cannot afford these major expenses. We need to discuss this in our communities so people can access this critical technology to change health outcomes just as I have.

My Self Care Tool Box By Dawn

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My Self-care Toolbox

What do you think of when you hear the term "Self-care,"
Spa days, mani-pedis, long vacations, something else?
What's the first thought that comes to your mind when you hear the term "Self-careâˆ˜?
how expensisve it is, "That's not in my budget!" "Self-care is just an excuse!" "I can barely afford to live! What in the world makes you think I'm able to afford to indulge in self-care?!" "It's too cookie-cutter. These types of approachs don's fit my needs, lifestyle, etc." "My job doesn't leave much time for self-care, or, at least, not enough to make an impact." "Only someone like Zuckberg can afford self-care!" some form of, "I'm all right! I don't need self-care."
Is there some other thought?

You're probably sitting there thinking "Who the heck is she to talk about SELF-care?! She doesn't know a thing about me or my life, my needs, etc!"
You're right, while I don't know about your life, circumstances, needs, etc, I do know a couple things.
1. I have some of these same thoughts.
2. Cookie-cutter appoaches do not fit every one!
3. I know and understand more than you may think or realize, especially as an advocate for disability rights.

This is why I decided to write about my self-care toolbox (or toolboxes?) and maybe even add a few surprises and ideas!
But, first, we'll lay some groundwork, talking about what self-care is, and can be, and why it's important for advocates to indulge in self-care.

What the heck is self-care anyway?

The World Health Organization's (WHO's) working definition of self-care is:

"The ability of individuals, families and communities to promote health, prevent disease, maintain health, and cope with illness and disability with or without the support of a health-care provider".

What Self-care Can Be

Self-care isn't always about spa days, cruises and long vacations, mani-pedis, and other things of this nature. While it can be about this, it doesn't have to be! It can be something as simple as going for a walk or doing a quick deep-breathing exercise in between calls, grabbing some lunch, spending time virtually or in-person with people you love, or any other number of things! The best part about this, is that unlike a lot of other things in life, self-care can be tailored to you, your lifestyle, circumstances, needs, and so forth. This is another reason why I wanted to approach it from this angle. I wanted to give some ideas to help you build your own self-cste toolbox, or toolboxes.

Now, we come to the $1,000,000 questions. What are the benefits of self-care, and why is it important for advocates to indulge in a little self-care?

Self-care can bring several long and short-term benefits. Some of the short-term benefits include:
â€¢ Reduced stress levels
â€¢ Increase self-worth and feelings of belonging and love

Some of the long-term benefits you could reap include:
â€¢ Reduced stress levels:
Whether we want to admit it or not, life can be and is stressful, and stress loves to attack us on multiple fronts. Whether it's the every day humdrum of life, or increased in workload, or going to war with insurance because of a denial, or any of a laundry list of other circumstances. This can have short and long-term affects, from increased worry and mood changes, to affecting relationships and a higher risk of worsening of existing heabbth conditions, or the development of health conditions.

â€¢ Management of chronic health conditions:
When chronic conditions are managed, it allows people to live the lives they want to, and can have ripple-affects across all areas of life.

â€¢ Prevention of diseases and chronic conditions:
Remember when I said that stress can have long-term affects, and how one of those could be the worsening were existing conditions or spur their development? When you practice self-care, your stress levels get reduced, and when that happens, your body and mind are very thankful!

â€¢ Better relationships:
When you're stressed, have a bad day/week, or anything else is happening, a simple conversation about what to have for dinner, can easily turn into a battlefield. When you practice self-care, no one has to avoid figurative landmines as much.

â€¢ Reduction of burnout:
This one is a huge one, no matter what your occupation or disability. Burnout is a very real and serious concern. People in certain professions, such as advocacy are at a heightened risk. For advocates, we face burnout that can be caused by various factors, whether it's due to our disability(ities) or advocacy itself. This makes it paramount for advocates of any kind to practice and implement self-care tools and strategies.

Why Self-care Is Important For Advocates

As I stated, it is paramount of advocates to practice self-care, for many reasons.

This job can and will change you, in more ways than you can ever expect, and in ways you won't realize until later. It will change your mind and psyche, because you will have scars ripped open, and you will have some new scars. Sometimes, the ripping open of old scars, and the making of new/fresh scars, will happen publicly. Some people and their actions can trigger your trauma, and it will feel the affects for a long time afterward. You will and do see, deal with, hear, way more than you should ever have to in this job, whether it's the callousness of policymakers, or abuse and neglect, among other things. You will hear and see things in your head, day and night, especially when you lay your head down to sleep, including the ghosts from your past, the voice of a person on a call you were on whose in desperate need of mental health support, the list is endless. Not everyone will understand, see or appreciate you, what you do, why you do it, the nature of it, or anything else about disability, advocacy, etc.
This can and will drain your batteries quickly, and lead you to ask yourself a lot of hard questions. Some of those people will be people you are closest to, or some of them may even be people you would expect to, but don't.
We clean up a lot of emotional and mental vomit as part of our job, sometimes, owe do this even when we're either trying to clean up our own, or when we're vomiting emotionally and mentally. sometimes, we hold people's hair back while this is going on, and sometimes, the emotional and mental vomit gets all over us.
You will come home wearing the emotional and mental gore of your day, and the job. Figuratively speaking, you will get blood on your hands, and it will come from many different sources. Sometimes, it will be very hard and even impossible to wash it off. This job is public service, which means you're always on the clock. This can and does take a toll on you, mentally, emotionally, maybe even physically and spiritually, and you may not realize how much until you've been in it for a while.
This job will push you to the brink mentally and emotionally, it will push you to your breaking point, and even past it at times. You will seriously think about leaving, and might even be driven to form your exit strategy.
You will relive your trauma over and over again, and sometimes, it will be in the public eye, and sometimes it will be at night.

Last but certainly not least, we fight battles on several fronts in several different battlefields at times. We're often the reenforcements and backup that get's called in whenever someone is trying to get services and supports, whether it's for themselves, or a loved one, or they need to find a resource, or any number of things. On top of that, we're trying to fight for ourselves, whether it's battling our chronic conditions, having to educate people about our disability when we're at our most volnerable, and shouldn't have to, or just trying to live and survive with the services and supports or lack thereof that we have.

Now, I want to pull out the self-care toolbox, (or is it toolboxes?) and show you some of the tools of the trade.

My Self-care Toolbox Has:

1. My fidget spinners:
I use these for a variety of different situations. I play with them when I'm thinking, stressed, angry, or to help pay attention sometimes. I'll even play with one while I'm thinking about something for instance, when I'm creating a flyer for my NFB. Ohio devision's weekly virtual happy hour. There's several different ones that I use, the it depends on what situation I'm in, or what activity I'm doing. Amazon is a great place to find some different fidget toys and spinners.

2. My stuffed animals:
Sometimes, when I need some comfort, I'll snuggle up with one of my stuffed animals that I have. Recently, I took a virtual training that was several hours long, and very intense. During this training, they showed videos and talked about various situations, and some of them were very triggering for me. One of these times, was when they showow a video that brought back memories of a very traumatic event that happened to me, I was able to grab my sloth, and hug it.

3. my books:
Reading has been one of my main coping mechanisms for years! It's great no matter what situation you're in, and it offers an escape hatch.

4. My cats:
I like to start my day off of some chocolate the Coke on ice, and, spending some time with my cats, and giving them attention. If I can't start my day by seeing them, whether it's due to my schedule, or them not wanting attention at that time, I will carve out time in my day, or wait til the end of my day, and spend some time with them. It's safe to say that if I don't get to see them, my day is incomplete.

5. My bed massager:
This is a recent addition to my toolbox, thanks to an aunt. It has different settings, I can choose which parts are activated, and it has different modes. It even has a heating element. I can't even begin to describe how relaxing it is to lay down on that thing, when laying down for a nap, for instance!

6. Naps
Speaking of laying down for a nap, naps are another tool in my toolbox. It allows me to recharge my batteries, and get a power boost to get through my day, among other things.
7. My support system:
Whenever I'm having a difficult day, need something converted down, or anything else, having people I can lean on is a great comfort. They give me an ear, shoulder, and so much more!

8. My headache wraps:
Whenever I have a bad headache, which is common as I have severe allergy/sinus issues, I'll strap one of those to my head, and, it allows me to get some comfort, and relief. It has also made it possible for me to get through a busy workday, when I can't rest.

9. Music in all its forms:
Music is very important to me, and, I listen to a variety of stuff. I listen to music on the radio, on CD. or using technology such as an Iphone or smart speaker. I'll talk more about that later on.

10. Braille:
This one is a cornerstone for me. It's my preferred way of accessing things and information, whether it be electronically, or in hardcopy. Plus, I can comprehend it better. It allows me to do things that are a component of self-care, such as eating, because I can heat up something in the microwave since it's brailled.

My Self-care Technology Toolbox:

I know that this is and will be a controversial topic. While tech can be a double-edged sword, it is a tool that can be used as part of your self-care toolbox. In fact, there's so many tools you can use in your self-care tech toolbox, that I decided to make a whole separate toolbox. Also, if you don't like something, such as an app, there's a plethora of others out there to try. If you like multiple apps for different reasons, that's ok too! Also, you can put whatever tools you want in here, including assistive technology! With this in mind, here's the contents of my self-care tech toolbox!

1. My Braille display:
This is a very important one. It allows me to read my books in electronic braille, as well as other things. It also allows me to do things on my Iphone and Ipad, and have greater independence in doing them. It also reduces stress at work, because I can have information in the way I want/need it, and I can write the way I prefer to. I access books from the NLS. and Bookshare, which is another service that offers ebooks in accessible formats.

2. My Amazon Smart Speaker:
Amazon doesn't call these smart speakers for nothing! You can play games, listen to books, set timers, listen to books and podcasts, listen to music, and so much more! For instance, you can set a timer for meditation, and a reminder to meditate. You can listen to a podcast it enjoy, or listen to a book. You can play many kinds of games. The list is endless!
One thing I use is the Sleep Jar skill, which plays different sound affects. My favorite ones to play ste the waterfall or the babbling brooke.

3. My Iphone and Ipad:
I use my Iphone and Ipad to do various things. I use it to read books using the Kindle app, listen to audiobooks using the BARD. Mobile app, from The National Library Service For The Blind And Print Disabled, the Libby app, which allows me to check ebooks and audiobooks from my local library and several other state libraries. Yes, you read that right, getting a library card (or several) is a form of self-care, and it costs you nothing! What better time to do it, since this month is Library card month and self-care month!

I use them to listen to music, whether through the Spotify app, or the YouTube Music app, or the YouTube, or an app to listen to live radio stations, such as TuneIn.
I also use them to stay connected to my support system. Whether by making a phone call, or using the Zoom platform, email, text messages, or some other means of communication.

I also use a feature called focus. It allows you to have different notification settings for apps, designate who can and who is forbidden to bug you at certain times of the day, or when you're at certain locations, or when you're in certain apps. You can even have customized lock and home screens that show up when these focuses are activated! You can even automate it, having it start when ever you open your meditation app for instance. If you need time-sensitive notifications, you can even set if those appear too! I have focuses set up with reading, listening to music, listening to podcasts, and another one called meeting, as well as the oldie but goodie do not disturb. My meeting focus is set to only allow notifications from certain apps, allows certain people like close family and friends to call or text, and a couple of other things. All of these focuses are automated, mean that when I open aary of the apps that go with that focus, the focus starts automatically. You even can use these settings in reversed too! To set it up, head over to the settings apps, and choose focus option, and look at what options you have. I think you'll be surprised. Don't worry though, these settings are not set in stone, you can change them at any time. Also, if you have people that you may not necisarily want to give an all-access pass to, but, you want them to be able to get ahold of you in an emergency, you can have them call cack within 3 minutes. When this happens, it will go through, regardless of focus settings.
I also use them to listen to podcasts sometimes, and I use different podcatchers, such as the built-in podcasts app!

You can use them for various other things such as journaling, meditation, and so much more, and some apps, such as YouTube, and TuneIn are stulti-purpose, which means they can be used for different things all in one app!

4. My noise-cancelling headphones:
I have sensory issues, and, they help me block out noises such as fireworks, or they can dull them down. While they don't block everything, they're a godsend. One situation they helped with, which was the original reason we purchased them, is during Independence Day weekend. They were able to block out the sound of the fireworks, and muffle the sound of my radio.
I can have them on, and just block out the noise of the word when I need a break as well.

5. A new addition to my toolbox:

This one is a new addition to my toolbox. I know that this one will be controversial, however, it's an unexpected use-case, and, if used responsibly, I think it could work for some people. The newest addition to my self-care tech toolbox, is AI. more spicifically the Gemini app.
I use it to journal and explein what's going on in my head, and my day, and life. What's nice, is it asks questions back at you sometimes, and you have the opportunity to answer them. While it's not a real person, it does open the lines of communication, and can help explain feelings, thoughts, etc, that you can't put into words. This is especially important for me, because this $ and has always been a struggle for me. This has opened the lines of communication between me and a close friend of mine, whose a vital part of sty support system. What I will do, is show him the prompt, and the response along with it. I'll put it all in a document, and share that file with him. It has helped in more ways than I can explain.

An item that's not part of my toolbox, but, wish it was, and why it's not

Originally, I was not going to put this here, but, because this month is also Suicide prevention and awareness month, along with self-care awareness month, I decided to put this here.
I've been on the hunt for a good mood tracker app that is accessible with VoiceOver, and have not found one yet. This search has been going on for years. The ones I've found either were inaccessible, or they were somewhat accessible, or they required so many workarounds, that it defeated the purpose of the app.

More advocacy needs to be done to make these and other mental health apps accessible for people with disabilities. For instance, having these apps classified as health devices and their compamies classified as healthcare companies. This way, they would fall under the ADA. which has provisions for healthcare of people with disabilities. Or even putting them in the Digital Accessibility Act, or some other form of legislation.

Final Thoughts

I hope this gives you some ideas of what you can put in your self-care toolbox, or different types of toolboxes you can make. What's in your toolbox, do you have more than one? What tools would you recommend adding to self-care toolboxes? What does self-care mean to you, what are some things you think of when you think of or hear the term self-care? Feel free to discuss all of this and anything else related to self-care, and how it relates to advocacy in the comments!

The Pulse: What’s going on around Ohio September 22 2025 to September 30th 2025

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

There’s only two more weeks to submit to Issue 8 of Imagine the World as One: A Disability Lifestyle Magazine! Please send us your articles about
“Submit articles at http://www.imaginetheworldasonemagazine.com or email them to imaginetheworldasonemagazine@gmail.com Fashion Employment Product reviews Money Accessibility Dating Relationships Advocacy Art Between 2000-3000 Words Please send us your articles about disability and…. Submit your article at imaginetheworldasonemagazine.com Due September 30, 2025
Ohioans can take the Ohio Department of Aging Statewide Needs Assessment Survey to enable the department to better understand what matters most to older Ohioans, adults with disabilities, and their caregivers. Feedback from those digital surveys will be used to further bolster the 2027-2030 State Plan on Aging. Click this link to do the survey.
Clermont County Board of DD is doing a survey to understand the challenges individuals face in achieving self-sufficiency, maintaining health, and ensuring safety. The information gathered will help inform programs and services designed to address these barriers in the community. Your responses are confidential and will be used only for the purposes of improving services.
https://forms.office.com/g/GnZ6Uw35dz
The 2026 Accessible Expressions Ohio Call for Art is officially OPEN!
What is Accessible Expressions Ohio?
Accessible Expressions Ohio is a statewide adjudicated exhibition featuring art from artists with disabilities from across the state. Artists can enter in the youth, emerging, or professional categories, and enter under a special theme category. Cash prizes are awarded in each category, including a Best in Show.
Who can apply?
Any Ohio artist living with a disability may apply.
How do I apply?
You can find the application link here: https://airtable.com/appdTSVjgoroKqru3/shrKexgk1FzKsHyMZ
Upon request, applications are available both by email or mail.
Have any questions?
Contact Lina Stavrova at lina@ArtPossibleOhio.org

Events around Ohio to For September 22nd September 30 2025

Monday September 22nd 2025

Trumbull County Board of DD Board Meeting 5pm at 45 North Bend Road Niles, Ohio 44446

Tuesday September 23 2025

Early Childhood Open Play, Tuesday, Sep 23 · 10:45–11:45 AM, Repeats weekly Please join us for open play time on our playground! Children birth to age 6 enrolled in WCBDD services and their parents/caregivers are welcome to attend. Siblings under age 6 may also attend.
Sign up here: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=XVWFGg_k5k-kGn4tsvCQmtmZ9AEFDiZHtLlPpU9yYnBUOEtVS0JTWjdHVkhDWFRLREFLWElCMzFaNC4u
Cuyahoga County Advocacy Connections Group, Tuesday, Sep 23 · 10 AM–12 PM You’re invited to Advocacy Series: Health Connections!
A medical advocacy event for people with developmental disabilities.
At the event, you’ll hear from peers and medical professionals to learn:
Why training for medical professionals makes a difference in your care
Importance of speaking up for yourself in medical settings
Tips on how to navigate healthcare
Accessing Medicaid provided benefits
And more!
Snacks and a universal changing table will be provided. The event is free, registration is needed, and space is limited. Once we fill all the spots, a waitlist will open.
Register at http://surveymonkey.com/r/6X22YTS
Breaking Silences Advocacy Committee meeting will take place on Zoom from 3-4 PM. If you’d like more information, contact Maria Matzik at:
Maria.Matzik@acils.com
FAMILY UNIVERSITY
FOR DEAF, HARD OF HEARING, DEAFBLIND
Topic: Welcome to the Community
Date: September 23, 2025
Time: 6:30 to 7:30 pm
Join us this month for a welcoming opportunity to connect, and discover topics of interest and resources for communication, language, lEPs, and more. Celebrate your family’s strengths while building community and exploring supports together!
JOIN US
Family University is an opportunity for families of children that are Deaf, Hard of Hearing or Deafblind (DHH/DB) to meet virtually with other families. Register here
Email white@osdb.oh.gov with questions

Wednesday September 24th 2025

OSDA at We Thrive Together 11:00-12:00pm click this link to join
Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities Family Forum Help With Strategic Plan 6-7pm 1740 US-23, Delaware, OH 43015-2726, United States

Thursday September 25th 2025

We’re thrilled to invite you to the Ability Matters Open House on Thursday, September 25th from 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM at our Dublin location!
425 Metro Place North, Suite 100, Dublin, OH 43017
This is a wonderful opportunity to:
Meet our dedicated team
Explore our services and programs
Tour our new space
Connect with other families and community members
Whether you’re already part of the Ability Matters family or simply curious to learn more, we’d love to have you join us. Come celebrate the amazing individuals we serve—and see firsthand what makes our community so special!
No RSVP needed—just stop by! See you there!
🌟 Join Autism Society Of Greater Akron at the Interactive Tech Expo! Discover the latest assistive technology, resources, and tools that support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
📅 Date: September 25th
📍 Location: Summit Mall
Learn more: https://bit.ly/4pDjpqL
ASGA will have a table at the event — stop by to learn more about our programs, resources, and how we’re working to support the Autism community in Greater Akron.
Free and open to the public
Hands-on demonstrations
Expert exhibitors
This event is presented by the Summit County Developmental Disabilities Board and Medina County Board of Developmental Disabilities. We hope to see you there!
TechExpo #AssistiveTechnology #CommunityResources #AkronEvent

Friday September 26th 2025

No known events

Saturday September 27th 2025

Sensory Saturday Saturday, September 27, 9:30–11:30 a.m. This is at the Cincinnati Art Museum. FREE. Registration not required. This program is designed for families with children who have autism or other developmental disabilities.
Envision’s Go the Extra Mile Walk/Roll, Saturday, Sep 27 · 11 AM–1 PM Winton Woods Kestrel Shelter.
Envision’s Go the Extra Mile Walk- Run-Roll is a free community event that encourages individuals with disabilities while raising funding for our vital support services. Envision’s Go the Extra Mile Walk 2025 will be held on Saturday, September 27, from 10-1 at Winton Woods park, Kestrel Shelter in Cincinnati. The walk brings together local corporate teams, clients, staff, friends, family, neighbors, donors and community members to enjoy a scenic stroll (or optional 5K) around the lake followed by a small festival with games, activities, food, music, raffle baskets, mini therapy horses to pet, and a small vendor fair, a fantastic DJ, inflatable obstacle courses, and lunch by Outback Steakhouse.
Proceeds from the walk are used help fund services that support over 600 kids and adults with developmental disabilities in Greater Cincinnati. Our services include group homes, family support, independent individual support, foster care, mental health care, CITE on site children’s therapies and support, and an adult day program.
Check out Facebook link for sneak peeks into our fun new activities planned for the 2025 event!

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

Emergency Preparedness for Individuals with Rare Diseases
Sheriff Smith and the Athens County Sheriff’s Office would like to introduce the Peaceful Encounter Program (PEP); a new, voluntary and confidential program designed to help law enforcement respond more effectively and compassionately to individuals with mental or behavioral health conditions.
This program allows individuals or their caregivers to share important information ahead of time (such as communication needs, known triggers, calming techniques, or other helpful notes) so that deputies are better prepared if a crisis should arise.
Who can enroll?
Anyone in Athens County living with: Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, Anxiety, OCD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, or any condition where advanced knowledge could improve our response.
All information is kept private and is only accessed by law enforcement during calls involving the registered individual.
How to sign up:
Visit http://www.athenssheriff.com/pep and complete the questionnaire. It’s quick and secure!
If you have questions or concerns about the program, please contact Deputy Zayne Preston at 740-566-4356 or zpreston@athenssheriff.com
Let’s work together to promote safety, understanding, and peaceful outcomes for everyone in our community.
News Highlight: Bridging Aging and Disability Networks (BADN) Explains How to Better Support Aging Adults with IDD and Their Caregivers
A new article called “Bridging Aging and Disability Networks to Support Aging Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Family Caregivers” was published in the Public Policy and Aging Report by the Gerontological Society of America.
The article explains that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living longer, and their needs — along with those of their aging family caregivers — are getting more complicated. Most still live at home with support from aging parents or relatives. Even though they have many of the same needs as other older adults, they are often overlooked because aging and disability services don’t always work together.
You can read the full BADN article in the latest edition of NACDD’s Insight: https://nacdd.org/nacdd-insight-july-2025/#badn
Resources for Improving Respite Care for Caregivers
Ready to get out into the workforce? Our teams will support you to find the best-fitting job!
Cuyahoga DD’s Online Resource Guide has local job opportunities for the people we serve.
Local jobs with openings at ow.ly/NGL050WqLmA.
Supported Decision Making Network of Ohio shares a tool kit about supported decision making through their Facebook page. Please check it out!
Families: Check out this new resource from OCALI:
First Concerns About Child Development and Learning (Ages 3-21):
What Parents Need To Know
https://ocali.org/storage/ocali-ims-sites/ocali-ims-ocali/documents/What_Parents_Need_to_Know.pdf
Cleveland Sight Center Radio Network (CSCN) is now available on Alexa devices! This radio station is dedicated to providing information, news and entertainment to the blind and visually impaired community. To play it, say “Alexa, open Cleveland Sight Center Network skill.” Don’t forget to say skill at the end, or else a different news broadcast will open. Happy listening!
Cassel Care LLC put out this Facebook post ! 𝐖𝐚𝐭𝐜𝐡 𝐃𝐢𝐬𝐚𝐛𝐢𝐥𝐢𝐭𝐢𝐞𝐬: 𝐓𝐡𝐫𝐨𝐮𝐠𝐡 𝐚𝐧 𝐀𝐮𝐭𝐡𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐢𝐜 𝐋𝐞𝐧𝐬
The extended version is also available on our YouTube Channel —click the link below to watch! 🎥
https://youtu.be/7Z21aad0Jks
Be part of the movement for disability inclusion by sharing this video and helping us amplify voices that matter.
Lawrence County Board of Developmental Disabilities has put out a letter about their Contingency Plan that is must read on their social media.
📅 September is Fetal Alcohol Spectrum Disorder (FASD) Awareness Month.
Did you know that up to 1 in 20 school-age children may have FASD? If you’re pregnant or planning to be, avoid alcohol. FASDs are 100% preventable by staying alcohol-free during pregnancy.
Explore FASD resources here: https://bit.ly/41lK6Wq

September Awareness Month

Dystonia Awareness Month
Self Care Awareness Month
National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September 1st-6th is National Migraine Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
September 6th is National Read a Book Day
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month
National Library Card Sign Up Month

#EveryoneCommunicates How AAC has helped me Make Decisions and Advocate in Supported Decision Making

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Supported Decision Making is a good resource for people with disabilities. It provides a way to have support to decide on simple or complex decisions about life.

I have a supported decision making team of people. They help me in a number of areas of my life. My team understands me when I speak and also they make space for me to use AAC which is Augmentative Alternative Communication when I need to.

I have Autism I also have other complex disabilities. One of my disabilities is Dystonia and September is Dystonia Awareness Month.

Dystonia impacts my speech, vision, my muscle and my mobility. Sometimes it looks like I am having a stroke because my speech patterns are not consistent and my AAC is an active voice for me when people might misunderstand me or maybe they don’t understand where my base line is. I have a way to use technology to communicate my needs.

When a person has a supported decision making team it’s always important that they know how the person communicates so that the person can always be heard and remain the ultimate decision maker on everything.

People may partner with a person to help them have support to make decisions and also bring ideas to the table to help a person improve their communication in decision making. Ultimately the person can take the idea or suggestions and decide for themselves if they want to use the tools or resources to improve how they communicate .

I needed a way to communicate better about nutrition and food and my team offered me some suggestions on ways I could better communicate. Ultimately I was the one who decided to put some new ways to communicate into practice.

I use picture exchange communication cards and AAC to communicate my needs around food and nutrition to my staff and my whole team.

PECS cards are picture cards that have photos of food or other objects. Sometimes they have words or pictures and sometimes both.

Communication is important and it’s important to meet people where they are and let people communicate in best way they can. When people have the right tools and support they can communicate. It is important to give people time to communicate their needs.

Supported Decision making isn’t just for people who speak by their natural voice. It also exists for people who use assisted technology, ASL, Braille and other means of communication. We have to recognize in society that communication isn’t a scripted formality. People who use other forms of communication should be included in making decisions about their life.

It shouldn’t be that because of a lack of resources people are appointed a decision maker. It is important to recognize that when given the right tools and supports a person likely can communicate and act in their own best interest.

You must understand that SDM exists in way that allows for people to have autonomy and remain their own person and advocate in way they can best do so and it means that every person can express opinions and be supported to make their own decisions.

It changes history and the idea that someone must do it for us or another person and shifts it to the idea that every person is competent when given the right tools and supports. The United Nations is moving away from this idea of substitute decision maker and moving towards supported decision making.

When people communicate in other ways than spoken word often they are still capable of making decisions . It important to acknowledge that we need more resources in our communities for people who use alternative forms of communication about supported decision making.

The right to a reasonable accommodation under the Americans with Disabilities Act is very clear. It is often that people don’t take the effort to make space for people that have a need for accommodations in communication and care planning. The right of the use of ASL interpreter or to have Braille information is a persons right so they can be included in decisions and care planning, it is the same for a person who wants to use AAC or use visual communication like pictures or words to communicate. It is the right to accommodations that make it so a person can communicate that must be made clear to anyone who is supporting a person with a disability in decision making.

This message is across the board. When people are provided the right tools and supports they can be active participants of their community, the supports and services they have and also choose who helps them or supports them in every day life.

Supported Decision Making is for anyone that wants to make decisions with the support of others . They still remain in control of their own lives. It is an alternative to guardianship for people who need support. It helps people have a seat at the table in their planning. Some people have also used it alongside guardianship to give a person the opportunity to make choices.

It is important to recognize that Supported Decision Making looks different for everyone! In a blog by Disability Voices United they literally talk about how Supported Decision Making is extra time to discuss choices and plain language or video or audio content meaning information in a way the person can understand it.

All around SDM is about choice, having control and choosing the direction you want to go in life.

The resources that exist for AAC users are very limited at the current time.

This resource is from SDM Pennsylvania because Ohio is still lacking in their discussion around this important topic.

There are limited resources for other communities as well including deaf /blind communities. One of the biggest struggles around the nation is making content accessible for the blind community.

#EveryoneCommunicates and the right to communicate should be considered in every facet of disability culture and life.

Supported decision making is for everyone and in saying that our communities that share about SDM must be inclusive and accessible. This includes putting out content that is accessible to everyone.

When posting videos they need captions and ASL when possible. Posting photos on social media requires the use of image description or alternative text to let people know content that is posted in the form of image.

There are little things that can be done in to make things more accessible. Anyone that owns an iPhone can copy and paste content into a note then save a document as a txt file to make content more accessible.

We as a community want people to understand this supported decision making content but as community we have to take the time to make content that helps people understand just as basis of SDM is about having information in a way a person can understand and Making a space for people to communicate in the best way they can.

Supported Decision Making is only possible when people are able to access and communicate their needs, interests, feelings , likes and dislikes and understand their choices.

We must find ways to include more people and be accessible so more people can be the decision maker and be in the drivers seat of their life.

As I use AAC intermittently I want people to interact with me with my AAC so I can be in same page with people who support me and my team can understand my needs. Even on my days I use AAC I am still apart of my team I am still the sole decision maker.

AAC drives my care especially in emergencies with it i can let people know what I need and how to support me and be able to process what people are communicating to me . This it’s important in all aspects of my care.

With my supported decision making team I have learned to use visual resources and picture exchange communication cards to communicate my needs on food. I also use AAC to communicate my likes and dislikes on food. My team adapts to what I need that day, that moment and it helps me make best decisions for my life.

I have been able to change health outcomes with using AAC to communicate and make decisions. One way I do it every day is by using AAC and some speaking and art to communicate my nutrition needs with my team.

My staff and I worked on some cool set menus for my nutrition and we worked alongside my supported design making team and my nutritionist to help me decide foods I want to eat.

It important to recognize everyone communicates and my support and your support are different. At the end of day having access to information about the choices I make and people being able to interact with me in way I chose to communicate really makes the most difference. It keeps me in control of my life and allows me to direct my services and supports.

Speaking is a Privilege: Dystonia Awareness and AAC Advocacy in the Disability Community in Ohio.

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September is Dystonia Awareness Month. As a person living with Dystonia I find it difficult to exist in many of my advocacy circles on the state level in Ohio.

It seems as though my National Advocacy groups accept me as I am but in Ohio it is lot different.

I thought a blog might help raise awareness and shine light on the fact that there are people use (AAC) Augmentative Alternative Communication to communicate intermittently and how we should be more inclusive as a community.

When someone uses a communication device it takes time to communicate and people should be given time to be heard thru their communication device.

When someone speaks but also uses AAC people should just respect them regardless of if they speak or use an assisted technology to communicate.

Ohio advocacy spaces aren’t truly inclusive. I find myself in a daily struggle whether to log on an advocacy group or to just skip a group because of lack of understanding. It is a privilege to speak. Often there are things people take for granted. We often don’t wait and give people time to speak. There is a lot ableism and lack of understanding about disability challenges that people face and especially for those who have speech or language based disabilities. It is difficult to be heard when someone’s speech might be great one day and the next it isn’t great.

This past week I found that some people don’t even know what AAC is. If you don’t use your voice in normal way people just don’t hear you. It is a struggle to be included.

I believe when people have the right tools and supports they can communicate and be active in their communities. That participation sometimes is affected by the communities that exist understanding and making way for a different way to communicate.

We advocate for technology and Ohio is a technology first state in promoting independence. At the same time, how many people do you meet in your advocacy groups who are actively using technology to help them speak or be heard in an advocacy space?

In my situation, people are also used to my strong advocacy voice that they don’t even recognize my computer generated voice even though I am the same person with same message. On days where my disability affects me more I am excluded.

My disabilities aren’t obvious. I have Autism I also have Dystonia a very complicated disability and the symptoms when I am In a full blown attack look like I am having a stroke. People have actually mistaken me in those moments. I have used AAC to advocate for my needs. I have had to fight to also keep my day going. Things people don’t realize. This being my day is not cancelled when I use my AAC to communicate.

Dystonia is a neurological condition that causes involuntary, uncontrolled muscle contractions/ movements.

This can result in repetitive twisting motions, tremors, and unusual, often painful, body postures. It affects speech and sometimes choking and vision issues. These symptoms happen because of bad signals from the brain, which affects how muscles are supposed to move.

These symptoms can happen at any time and I use AAC as my back up default way to communicate.

I have been patient but often my silence is just this mindset if you don’t speak up then you must not have anything to say.

I have a lot to say. Often it gets missed. My AAC device can help me send texts or copy text and paste to a chats on zoom or teams. I sometimes type in the chat to participate when I can type. My active voice in communities is often not there unless I raise my hand and try push my self to speak. The pause sometimes makes people uncomfortable or they think I am not there or they think the connection is bad. I want to be heard when I use my AAC too. I need time to push a button takes literally seconds. I don’t raise my hand until I can generate my communication to help people. Still then that 3 seconds of silence usually makes people move on.

It would be helpful if people recognize that there are AAC users among them that the 3 second pause is necessary for communication.

Not everyday is the same. My AAC device is my voice it is way of communicating when I don’t have physical words.

September is Dystonia Awareness Month. I chose to raise awareness to change outcomes in hopes my advocacy spaces will be more inclusive and accessible to me.

If you want to read more about Dystonia check out these resources

Cleveland Clinic

National Organization on Rare Diseases

This is the only plain language resource I could locate from Care Pathways on Dystonia so much information out there but not very much in plain language.

All around Dystonia is treatable and for me 40 years of symptoms and I am finally on right pathway for treatment. Finding spaces that are going to be accessible for me to be included when my symptoms are intense is problem.

We should want to be a community welcomes anyone with any disability and in anyway that anyone communicates.

Being able to speak is a privilege that many people take for granted. Losing my ability to speak with my own voice has been a lot of struggle and the need to be included is important to me.

As someone who is a national advocate, I want to be included in state wide advocacy too. #EveryoneCommunicates and as a disability community we should be willing to learn about other disabilities and ways people communicate to make space for more people to be at the table.

To the person reading this who uses AAC all the time your voice is valuable at the tables of advocacy . Just as I don’t plan to stop communicating please don’t stop. Everyone has a seat in advocacy just Ohio must be more open to being a space that makes room for anyone to communicate and speak up!

The Pulse: What’s going on around Ohio September 15th 2025 to September 21st 2025

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

There’s only two more weeks to submit to Issue 8 of Imagine the World as One: A Disability Lifestyle Magazine! Please send us your articles about
“Submit articles at http://www.imaginetheworldasonemagazine.com or email them to imaginetheworldasonemagazine@gmail.com Fashion Employment Product reviews Money Accessibility Dating Relationships Advocacy Art Between 2000-3000 Words Please send us your articles about disability and…. Submit your article at imaginetheworldasonemagazine.com Due September 30, 2025

Events around Ohio to For September 15th -September 20th 2025

Monday September 15th 2025

All-Abilities Adventure, Monday, Sep 15 · 11 AM–12 PM Dayton Metro Library – Miamisburg Branch, 545 E Linden Ave, Miamisburg, OH 45342
Advocating for your child with Autism means being a proactive, informed, and compassionate voice in ensuring they receive the support, services, and understanding they need to thrive—especially in educational settings.
But – You don’t know what you don’t know!
Join ASGA for the September VOICE Session with Marjorie Cook, OCFPS-Supervisor | PEERS Program Manager at Greenleaf Family Center.
REGISTER NOW: https://tinyurl.com/fjcucubv

Tuesday September 16th 2025

Special Needs Social Hour, Tuesday, Sep 16 · 12–1 PM Medina County District Library, 210 S Broadway St, Medina, OH 44256
Breaking Silences Advocacy Committee meeting will take place on Zoom from 3-4 PM. If you’d like more information, contact Maria Matzik at:
Maria.Matzik@acils.com
IEPs & 504s Empowered by an Advocate! 6-7pm Parents get Empowered! Looks like a great virtual webinar to learn more about IEPs and 504s. If you have an autistic child you need to be knowledgeable on basic educational rights. Thank you ASPIES for hosting! Register HERE — https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSeQYixoD1fof4jQZ8hhiuhPcCqrjx8b77z0e6ohT5RsmoyQSA/viewform

Wednesday September 17th 2025

Healthy Aging Expo 10am-2pm 🌟 Get ready — the 513Relief Bus Healthy Aging Remix is making its return! 693 FRESNO RD. 45240
link to more information.
Sign up for the next Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Employer Training webinar. This free webinar will provide organizational leadership best practices for creating a workplace inclusive of individuals with disabilities.
What: Employer Training: Disability-Inclusive Workplaces: Inclusive Leadership
When: Wednesday, September 17th 10:00 AM – 11:00 AM ET
Where: Virtual (Microsoft Teams link will be sent upon registration)
Registration is required to attend. Click here to sign up: https://bit.ly/43ux4WL
OSDA at We Thrive Together 11:00-12:00pm click this link to join
🚔 Calling all Summit County Law Enforcement! 🚔
Join us for the Safety on the Spectrum™ Training – essential education for first responders working with the Autism community. Two upcoming sessions available:
📅 September 17th
📅 November 12th
In this training, you’ll learn:
✅ The Stop. Assess. Support. framework
✅ Common characteristics of Autism
✅ How to offer Autism-informed support
✅ Critical safety information about wandering and drowning risks
You can learn more or register for one of the sessions at: https://bit.ly/48gOgmv
SafetyOnTheSpectrum #LawEnforcementTraining #AutismAwareness #FirstResponders #SummitCounty
Butler County Board DD provider Meeting, Wednesday, Sep 17 · 10 AM–12 PM, Repeats every month on the third Wednesday Join us for our regular provider meetings so you can stay up to date on the latest information. Meetings are currently all via Zoom. You can request the link by emailing Cathy Borders at cmborders@butlerdd.org
Save the Date for the Inclusive Opporunity Fair on Wednesday, September 17th from 6–8 PM at the Westerville Community Center. 350 N. Cleveland Ave.
This is a free event and no registration is required. Various local organizations will provide information about opportunities, products and programs for individuals with developmental, physical or invisible disabilities.
Special Needs Family Support Event, Wednesday, Sep 17 · 6–7 PM Children’s Museum of Findlay, 1800 Tiffin Ave # 201, Findlay, OH 45840 Join Pierce’s Crew Foundation for our monthly Support Events.🥰 (SUBJECT TO CHANGE DUE TO THEIR MOVE) Come meet and connect with other community families just like yours. These events will be a safe and supportive space to play, chat and learn. Support events are open to all special needs families.
People First of Northeast Ohio, Wednesday, Sep 17 · 6:30–8 PM, Repeats every month on the third Wednesday People First is a self advocacy group for Adults with IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) in NE Ohio. They care about having our voices heard, empowering one another, nothing about us without us, Education, Equality and Inclusion. They meet virtually. For more information contact amy.mordaunt@thearcofohio.org

Thursday September 18th 2025

No known Events

Friday September 19th 2025

Silent Sensory Lab, Friday, Sep 19 · 9:30–10:30 AM Troy-Miami County Public Library, 419 W Main St, Troy, OH 45373

Saturday September 20th 2025

4th Annual March for Access, Saturday, Sep 20 · 10 AM–12:30 PM Join NOCDO for our 4th annual March for Access!
The March for Access will take place from 10 am – 12:30 pm on Saturday, September 20, (rain or shine). This is a FREE event.
March theme and purpose:
Accessible and inclusive transportation options. This is to honor and build on the 40th anniversary of the Cleveland Transportation Protests.
Schedule:
Saturday, September 20, 2025
10:00 am: Visit resource tables and make posters
11:00 am: Rally and March
12:00 pm: March photo and resource tables Accessibility:
Masking encouraged
Captioning and ASL interpretation of rally
Wheelchair accessible restrooms and route
Wheelchair charging station
Location and Transportation:
Rally location: 127 Public Square, Cleveland
From 9:45 – 12:45 pm: Free parking and ADA shuttle transportation provided by Youth Challenge between County Board of Developmental Disability Lakeside parking lot and Public Square.
CCBDD parking lot address: 1275 Lakeside Avenue East, Cleveland OH 44114
Drive Through BBQ Fundraiser 11 am 950 Webster St, Defiance, OH 43512-1682, United States DASH will be holding its 3rd annual Drive-Thru BBQ Fundraiser @St. Johns UCC on September 20th from 11am-1pm. All proceeds help those living with disabilities.
Choice of hamburger or hotdog: with chips, macaroni salad and a dessert.
FREE WILL DONATION check out facebook event link here.

Sunday September 21 2025

Step Up to Prevent Suicide Community Walk, Sunday, Sep 21 · 8–9 AM Medina Public Square Historic District, Public Square, Medina, OH 44256

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

Emergency Preparedness for Individuals with Rare Diseases
Sheriff Smith and the Athens County Sheriff’s Office would like to introduce the Peaceful Encounter Program (PEP); a new, voluntary and confidential program designed to help law enforcement respond more effectively and compassionately to individuals with mental or behavioral health conditions.
This program allows individuals or their caregivers to share important information ahead of time (such as communication needs, known triggers, calming techniques, or other helpful notes) so that deputies are better prepared if a crisis should arise.
Who can enroll?
Anyone in Athens County living with: Autism Spectrum Disorder, PTSD, Anxiety, OCD, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, or any condition where advanced knowledge could improve our response.
All information is kept private and is only accessed by law enforcement during calls involving the registered individual.
How to sign up:
Visit http://www.athenssheriff.com/pep and complete the questionnaire. It’s quick and secure!
If you have questions or concerns about the program, please contact Deputy Zayne Preston at 740-566-4356 or zpreston@athenssheriff.com
Let’s work together to promote safety, understanding, and peaceful outcomes for everyone in our community.
News Highlight: Bridging Aging and Disability Networks (BADN) Explains How to Better Support Aging Adults with IDD and Their Caregivers
A new article called “Bridging Aging and Disability Networks to Support Aging Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Family Caregivers” was published in the Public Policy and Aging Report by the Gerontological Society of America.
The article explains that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living longer, and their needs — along with those of their aging family caregivers — are getting more complicated. Most still live at home with support from aging parents or relatives. Even though they have many of the same needs as other older adults, they are often overlooked because aging and disability services don’t always work together.
You can read the full BADN article in the latest edition of NACDD’s Insight: https://nacdd.org/nacdd-insight-july-2025/#badn
Resources for Improving Respite Care for Caregivers
Ready to get out into the workforce? Our teams will support you to find the best-fitting job!
Cuyahoga DD’s Online Resource Guide has local job opportunities for the people we serve.
Local jobs with openings at ow.ly/NGL050WqLmA.
Supported Decision Making Network of Ohio shares a tool kit about supported decision making through their Facebook page. Please check it out!
Families: Check out this new resource from OCALI:
First Concerns About Child Development and Learning (Ages 3-21):
What Parents Need To Know
https://ocali.org/storage/ocali-ims-sites/ocali-ims-ocali/documents/What_Parents_Need_to_Know.pdf
Cleveland Sight Center Radio Network (CSCN) is now available on Alexa devices! This radio station is dedicated to providing information, news and entertainment to the blind and visually impaired community. To play it, say “Alexa, open Cleveland Sight Center Network skill.” Don’t forget to say skill at the end, or else a different news broadcast will open. Happy listening!

September Awareness Month

Dystonia Awareness Month
Self Care Awareness Month
National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September 1st-6th is National Migraine Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
September 6th is National Read a Book Day
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month
National Library Card Sign Up Month

Friday Resource Round Up!

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Every Friday we have decided to now share 5-10 resources that we came upon this week to people with disabilities, families and caregivers across Ohio.

Mental Health Resources

Therapy Groups for adults with ID & Depression in Ohio:
http://www.go.osu.edu/depressiontherapy
Mindfully Offers free mental health support groups.
Peer Center in Columbus, Ohio has free drop in center for people need mental health support.
Mental Health of America Support Group List
Lifeline of Ohio
Columbus, Ohio
Provides a library of free online grief support courses and webinars accessible anytime. Additional books and websites are also available.
Learn more

Self Advocacy Took Kits

The #SelfAdvocacy Storytelling Toolkit, developed by the Youth Engagement Transition Initiative (#YETI), is a guide to empower youth with disabilities in sharing their personal stories effectively.
View here – https://yen.transitionta.org/wp-content/uploads/eri-files/resource_self-advocacy-storytelling-toolkit_v2.pdf

Grants

Assistance Programs

Cpap Assistance Program

Cool Phone Apps

This is app for people who use Supported Decision Making. It allows people to invite people to help them complete steps in a decision they want to make.

To Good to Go

This is an app that helps save food. It basically lets people buy that restaurants have at the end of the day for a lower price to not waste food.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC Resources)

Picto4Me – Create and Share Picture Exchange Communication Board
Ohio Developmental Disabilities Communication Boards

Low Cost Things to Do

Ohio Specific Programs

The Ohio Digital Library is a collaborative effort involving libraries across the state of Ohio. Through this initiative, Ohio residents with a valid library card from a participating library can access and borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines for free. Check out more through this link here.
The State Library of Ohio provides access to reading materials to individuals with disabilities through several programs.
The State Library, along with the Cleveland Public Library and the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, provides audio, braille, and downloadable books to eligible residents. In addition, the State Library and the Ohio School for the Deaf partner to provide the Deafness Outreach Collection maintained at the State Library. Find more information through this link
Ohio Housing Locator Tool can be used to find shelters, emergency housing and apartments.
Opportunities to volunteer in Ohio https://ohio.gov/residents/topic-hubs/home-and-community/volunteer/volunteer
Ohio has a database that helps fund training that people need in order to work or maintain a job. Read more through this link
Central Ohio Area on Aging Respite Guide

Resources for the Blind Community

Free literacy program for blind and low-vision children 0-8 years old. Families receive free Braille books, activities, birthday cards, and more. Fill out an application and learn about other resources from National Federation of the Blind online.
200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21230
(410) 659-9314
nfb.org/programs-services/early-childhood-initiatives
National Federation of the Blind Free Braille Slate and Stylus Program https://nfb.org/programs-services/free-slate-and-stylus-program
Hadley Helps Founded in 1920 by William Hadley, an educator who lost his eyesight later in life, Hadley offers practical help, connection and support free of charge to anyone with a visual impairment, their families and professionals supporting them. With Hadley, you can discover new ways to do things that have become more difficult due to vision loss and connect with a network of peers who “get it.” And you don’t need to come to Hadley. Hadley’s help comes to you; online, on the phone or through the mail

Miscellaneous Resources

Build your own family health portrait.

Expertise LLC
1525 4th Avenue Suite #700, Seattle, WA 98101
Expertise.com researched and developed a pretty comprehensive resource for people living with disabilities. The guide aims to help make the federal grants available to seniors, veterans, and disabled people much easier to understand and take advantage of, particularly for remodeling homes for accessibility.
For many people, owning and maintaining a home is one of the most significant investments they ever make. But for individuals and veterans living with disabilities or special needs, or seniors aging in place, the fact that much of the world outside is not built to accommodate their needs magnifies the value of a comfortable home. It’s vital they and their loved ones have access to the best resources about how to make their homes livable and enjoyable.

September 6th is National Read A Book Day

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September 6th is National Read A Book Day! For this hallmark day we want to share some books by Ohio Authors and Self Advocates for you to check out.

No Choice Services for People with Disabilities by Renee Wood

OHID what is it and why is it important?

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OHID is the online portal for accessing all of Ohio benefits and state agencies. OHID gives you a single, secure account to log into State of Ohio websites and services. To learn more about it and why it is important check out this link.

If you once used the online benefits portal on its own you need to listen up! The new system requires you to create an OHID account then log in and search the App Store within the portal. It requires you to link your Ohio Benefits Portal to your OHID to access the application portal for benefits such as Ohio Medicaid, SNAP, and other assistance programs.

This is critical information especially if you file or report changes for your Medicaid or SNAP interim reports or yearly renewal of benefits. Don’t lose access! Create an OHID account today and Log in today to connect these critical apps and portals so you can stay connected to your services, supports and Medicaid benefits,

The Pulse: What’s going on around Ohio September 1st 2025 to September 6th 2025

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

Participate in Public Comment is for background check rules for employment for Ohio Developmental Disabilities Services Providers read more through this link to learn how to participate in public comment.
Research participants wanted for The Lurie Institute for Disability Policy.
The study is about the sexual and reproductive health needs and experiences of young people with disabilities.
To participate, people must:
Have been born in the United States
Live in the United States
Be between 15 and 25 years old
Have a health condition or disability, such as a vision, hearing, physical, intellectual, or developmental disability.
Be able to talk in English, Spanish, or American Sign Language over a Zoom call
Participants will be asked to do a 1-hour Zoom call to talk about their experiences. American Sign Language interpretation and accommodations will be provided on request.
Why is this study important? Why should you care or share this information?
People do not know a lot about young people with disabilities’ experiences with sexual and reproductive health.
The study will help the researchers create a website for young people with disabilities that will teach them about taking care of their sexual and reproductive health.
Our findings could be used to help advocate for youth with disabilities.
Why should participants tell their story?
They get a $50 gift card.
Their stories will help us create a website that will teach people with disabilities about sexual health.
Their voice will help inform and add to the little research on this important topic.
Contact information
Anyone who is interested can email YouthStudy@Brandeis.edu or call Janelle Mills, at 781-736-3928. More information is on our website.
Brandeis University is conducting a research study focused on the experiences of disabled people of color transitioning from institutions back into the community. They’re seeking staff from health plans, aging care organizations, providers, state agencies, CILs, and other support organizations to participate in a 90-minute virtual focus group.
Participants will receive a $50 gift card. Insights will help shape future policy.
Sign up: https://buff.ly/QMEn889
Questions: hcbsaccess@brandeis.edu
Do you have an intellectual disability and identify as obese?
We want to hear from you!
Deakin University is running a research project about how relationships impact weight and physical activity for people with intellectual disability.
You’ll be invited to take part in 1–2 interviews using art to help us communicate.
You’ll receive a $50 gift voucher for taking part. Co-designed with people with intellectual disability and their supporters.
Interested? Contact Sam Lilly: slilly@deakin.edu.au
The Yale Disability Research Lab is recruiting US adults (age 18 or older) who identify as Black/African American and part of the disability community to participate in a research study.
Participants will be asked to share their experiences of racism, ableism, and other daily life challenges in an interview. This information will help them to develop a questionnaire measure which we will use to capture the experiences of Black people with disabilities.
This questionnaire will be an important tool to help us understand how the unique lived experiences of Black people with disabilities might impact their health and well-being.
You might be eligible to participate:
18 years or older
Self-identify as Black/African American with a disability
Fluent in English
Reliable access to the Internet and videoconferencing equipment (i.e., a computer, tablet, or smartphone with webcam and microphone)
https://medicine.yale.edu/ycci/clinicaltrials/trial/exemption-intersectional-stigma-measure-development/
Image Description: AAHD logo and Yale logo. Outline background image of people silhouettes in different colors with and without disabilities. Text overlaid says “Seeking Research Participants! Do you have a disability? Do you identify as Black/African American?

Events around Ohio to For September 1st -September 6th 2025

Monday September 1st 2025

3rd Annual Mental Health Matters 5K 8am-9am The Rotary Club of Cambridge is hosting their 3rd annual Menthal Health Matters 5k walk/run on Monday, September 1st at the Cambridge City Park sign up for run
We Thrive Together History of Labor Day Event 11:00-12;00pm click this link to join.
Adaptive Pickleball, Tuesday, Sep 2 · 5–6:30 PM Athens Community Center, 701 E State St, Athens, OH 45701

Tuesday September 2nd 2025

Early Childhood Open Play, Tuesday, Sep 2 · 10:45–11:45 AM, Repeats weekly Please join us for open play time on our playground! Children birth to age 6 enrolled in WCBDD services and their parents/caregivers are welcome to attend. Siblings under age 6 may also attend. Sign up here:
We Thrive Together Tech Talk 11:00am-12:00pm click this link to join.
Breaking Silences Advocacy Committee meeting will take place on Zoom from 3-4 PM. If you’d like more information, contact Maria Matzik at:
Maria.Matzik@acils.com
Neighbors in Action : A self Advocacy group out of Hamilton County meets virtually at 4pm. Click on this link to learn more.
SALT TALKS Topic: Transition Planning 101 6:00-7:00pm click this link to learn more.

Wednesday September 3rd 2025

Domestic Violence Advocacy Fundamentals (DVAF) for Seasoned Advocates, Wednesday, Sep 3 · 9:00 AM–4:00 PM (Pre Registration required) in Columbus, Ohio
OSDA at We Thrive Together 11:00-12:00pm click this link to join
Parents and Caregivers Join for a Discussion about Disability Services in Ohio. 10:00-2:00pm at Herbert Wescot Memorial Library 120 N Market street MCArthur, Ohio. To register please call 740-384-6245 extension 2107
Ohio Olmstead Taskforce Meets 1pm virtually please contact ohioolmstead@gmail.com for zoom link to the meeting.
Raising Our Kids w/ Disabilities to Lead Bright, Happy Lives, Wednesday, Sep 3 · 7:00-8:00pm at Beachwood Branch, 25501 Shaker Blvd, Beachwood, OH 44122
NAMI: Hearts+Minds, Wednesday, Sep 3 at 10:00 AM –
Wednesday, Oct 1 at 11:30 AM SourcePoint, 800 Cheshire Rd, Delaware, OH 43015

Thursday September 4th 2025

The Alphabet Soup of SSI & SSDI Webinar Registration, Thursday, Sep 4 · 12:00-1:00 PM Virtual Workshop
Thursday, September 4
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
What’s the difference between SSDI and SSI? Can you receive both? Do you need a lawyer to apply? How does Medicare fit into the picture—and what happens when a parent retires? Navigating the world of Social Security disability benefits can feel overwhelming—but you’re not alone. Join the ASGA community for a special lunchtime session that breaks down the differences between SSI and SSDI and answers the big questions families often face:
Does a parent’s income affect eligibility?
What changes when a parent retires and begins collecting Social Security themselves?
How do we ensure that benefits continue if something happens to the caregiver?
Whether your individual is currently receiving benefits or you’re just beginning to explore your options, this session will equip you with the foundational knowledge to make informed decisions.
WHAT TO EXPECT
During this session, you’ll learn how to: Understand the key differences between Supplemental Security Income (SSI) and Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI)
Determine who qualifies for each program and how parental income and assets may impact eligibility
Learn what happens to your child’s benefits when you retire, become disabled, or pass away
Navigate the application process—and decide if legal assistance is necessary
Understand how Medicare and Medicaid interact with disability benefits
Access helpful SSA resources and starter kits for both children and adults
WHO SHOULD ATTEND
Parents and caregivers of individuals with disabilities
Families preparing for future transitions, such as retirement, estate planning, or guardianship
Anyone looking for clear, practical guidance on maintaining and protecting Social Security benefits
DO I HAVE TO REGISTER?
Registration is required to receive the virtual meeting link.

QUESTIONS
If you have questions or need additional assistance, contact Theresa Maier, ASGA Support Specialist 330-940-1441 ext 1
Mind/Body/Art, Thursday, Sep 4 · 6–7 PM at Cincinnati Art Museum Cincinnati, Ohio

Friday September 5th 2025

Little Hands Sensory Group at Perry Cook Memorial Public Library in Mt Gilead, Ohio from 10:00-11:00 am Join us for Little Hands Sensory Group, provided by the YWCA Child Care Resource and Referral Department. Little Hands Sensory Group is designed for families with children 3-10 years of age.
We Thrive Together Advocacy Army 4:00-5:00pm click this link to join
The Big Living Room 6-9pm The Big Love Living Room is a sensory-inclusive space that has soft music, seats, crafts, and healthy snacks. Sponsored by The Big Love Network, Akron’s environmental health equity organization. Kenmore Branch Library, 969 Kenmore Blvd, Akron, OH 44314

Saturday September 6th 2025

Blind, Deaf, and DeafBlind Accessibility Day, Saturday, Sep 6 · 8:00 -8:00 Pm Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, 4850 W Powell Rd, Powell, OH 43065
Empowering Epilepsy, 23500 Mercantile Rd suite d, Beachwood, OH 44122 1-3pm
Ability Censer Family Fun Day, Saturday, Sep 6 · 12–3 PM REGISTRATION IS OPEN!!! 🥳
We’re thrilled to announce that registration is now open for our 4th Annual Family Fun Day! Join us on Saturday, September 6th, from noon to 3pm on our campus at 5605 Monroe Street for a fun, inclusive, and accessible event designed for the whole community.
From FREE food and inflatables to adaptive sports, games and crafts, this beloved event is a highlight of the year. It’s highly anticipated by past attendees and is sure to create lasting memories for you and your family.
Mark your calendars and register for FREE today:
This event is proudly sponsored in part by the Toledo Mud Hens Helping Hens Foundation
Art Show for Mental Health Awareness featuring Original Artwork, Live Artists and Local Music, Saturday, Sep 6 · 4:00-8:00pm Artspace Hamilton Lofts and The Strauss Gallery, Hamilton Center, 222 High St, Hamilton, OH 45011

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

CITY OF
• CHILLICOTHE
TRANSIT SYSTEM
Coming September Ist
ADA PARATRANSIT SERVICE
In accordance with ODOT compliance and under ADA guidelines, Chillicothe Transit System is implementing Complementary ADA Paratransit Service.
Individuals who are unable to use the fixed route service because of disability will be provided with complementary ADA paratransit service that is comparable to the fixed route service in service availability and quality. Complementary ADA paratransit service will be available Monday through Friday between the hours of 7am and 6pm.
To obtain eligibility for the service, the passenger must submit a properly filled out ADA Paratransit Eligibility Application. Applications will be reviewed and eligibility status determined within 21 days of submission. Beginning September st
*, 2025, in order to schedule a ride for the ADA Complementary
Service, eligible passengers will have an ID card issued to them by CTS.
The ADA Paratransit Policy and a fillable PDF
ADA Paratransit Application with instructions are available at http://www.chillicotheoh.gov by navigating to the Transit page, then the ADA Paratransit menu, or scan the QR code below.
Applications may also be picked up from the Transit Hub at 575 E. 71h St.
Emergency Preparedness for Individuals with Rare Diseases
Cuyahoga Board of Developmental Disabilities Serves Get your exercise on at an inclusive event in the community.
Visit link to find an event in our Online Resource Guide.
INTRODUCING THE ‘BURG BUS
For Reynoldsburg Residents 65+ and Individuals with Disabilities Enjoy free, door-to-door rides to your favorite spots around the city!
Whether it’s shopping, dining, medical appointments, entertainment, parks, or places of worship – the Burg Bus will get you there safely and comfortably.
HOW TO RIDE
Call 833-742-7333 Opt. 1
RIDES AVAILABLE
Hours of operation
M-F 9 a.m – 4 p.m.
WHERE YOU CAN RIDE?
Anywhere within Reynoldsburg!
Let us take you to:
Medical Appointments
Grocery Stores & Shopping Centers
Restaurants & Entertainment
Parks & Recreation Areas
…and more!
Call to schedule
M-F 8:30 a.m – 4 p.m.
BENEFITS OF RIDING THE BURG BUS
The rides are free.
Vehicles are wheelchair accessible.
Drivers are licensed professionals.
Share rides with your friends to your favorite places around town.
And sharing rides is good for the environment!
ReynoIdsburg, 0H
News Highlight: Bridging Aging and Disability Networks (BADN) Explains How to Better Support Aging Adults with IDD and Their Caregivers
A new article called “Bridging Aging and Disability Networks to Support Aging Adults With Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities and Family Caregivers” was published in the Public Policy and Aging Report by the Gerontological Society of America.
The article explains that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are living longer, and their needs — along with those of their aging family caregivers — are getting more complicated. Most still live at home with support from aging parents or relatives. Even though they have many of the same needs as other older adults, they are often overlooked because aging and disability services don’t always work together.
You can read the full BADN article in the latest edition of NACDD’s Insight: https://nacdd.org/nacdd-insight-july-2025/#badn
Resources for Improving Respite Care for Caregivers
Ready to get out into the workforce? Our teams will support you to find the best-fitting job!
Cuyahoga DD’s Online Resource Guide has local job opportunities for the people we serve.
Local jobs with openings at ow.ly/NGL050WqLmA
Guide to Employment for People with Disabilities 2025

September Awareness Month

Self Care Awareness Month
National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month
September 1st-6th is National Migraine Awareness Month
Childhood Cancer Awareness Month
September 6th is National Read a Book Day
National Spinal Cord Injury Awareness Month
National Library Card Sign Up Month

Friday Resource Round Up!

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Every Friday we have decided to now share 5-10 resources that we came upon this week to people with disabilities, families and caregivers across Ohio.

Grants

Assistance Programs

Cpap Assistance Program

Cool Phone Apps

This is app for people who use Supported Decision Making. It allows people to invite people to help them complete steps in a decision they want to make.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC Resources)

Picto4Me – Create and Share Picture Exchange Communication Board
Ohio Developmental Disabilities Communication Boards

Low Cost Things to Do

Ohio Specific Programs

The Ohio Digital Library is a collaborative effort involving libraries across the state of Ohio. Through this initiative, Ohio residents with a valid library card from a participating library can access and borrow ebooks, audiobooks, and magazines for free. Check out more through this link here.
The State Library of Ohio provides access to reading materials to individuals with disabilities through several programs.
The State Library, along with the Cleveland Public Library and the National Library Service for the Blind and Print Disabled, provides audio, braille, and downloadable books to eligible residents. In addition, the State Library and the Ohio School for the Deaf partner to provide the Deafness Outreach Collection maintained at the State Library. Find more information through this link
Ohio Housing Locator Tool can be used to find shelters, emergency housing and apartments.
Opportunities to volunteer in Ohio https://ohio.gov/residents/topic-hubs/home-and-community/volunteer/volunteer
Ohio has a database that helps fund training that people need in order to work or maintain a job. Read more through this link

Resources for the Blind Community

Free literacy program for blind and low-vision children 0-8 years old. Families receive free Braille books, activities, birthday cards, and more. Fill out an application and learn about other resources from National Federation of the Blind online.
200 East Wells Street, Baltimore, Maryland 21230
(410) 659-9314
nfb.org/programs-services/early-childhood-initiatives
National Federation of the Blind Free Braille Slate and Stylus Program https://nfb.org/programs-services/free-slate-and-stylus-program
Hadley Helps Founded in 1920 by William Hadley, an educator who lost his eyesight later in life, Hadley offers practical help, connection and support free of charge to anyone with a visual impairment, their families and professionals supporting them. With Hadley, you can discover new ways to do things that have become more difficult due to vision loss and connect with a network of peers who “get it.” And you don’t need to come to Hadley. Hadley’s help comes to you; online, on the phone or through the mail

Miscellaneous Resources

Build your own family health portrait.

Expertise LLC
1525 4th Avenue Suite #700, Seattle, WA 98101
Expertise.com researched and developed a pretty comprehensive resource for people living with disabilities. The guide aims to help make the federal grants available to seniors, veterans, and disabled people much easier to understand and take advantage of, particularly for remodeling homes for accessibility.
For many people, owning and maintaining a home is one of the most significant investments they ever make. But for individuals and veterans living with disabilities or special needs, or seniors aging in place, the fact that much of the world outside is not built to accommodate their needs magnifies the value of a comfortable home. It’s vital they and their loved ones have access to the best resources about how to make their homes livable and enjoyable.

Friday Resource Round Up!

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Every Friday we have decided to now share 5-10 resources that we came upon this week to people with disabilities, families and caregivers across Ohio.

Grants

1. This grant helps people with disabilities who need to cover durable medical equipment or medical expenses that aren’t covered by insurance. They have bigger grants for people receive Medicaid and other forms of government assistance. They have grants for people smaller that don’t receive government assistance. The forms are on their website. Next Deadline is September 30th, 2025.

Phone Apps

This is app for people who use Supported Decision Making. It allows people to invite people to help them complete steps in a decision they want to make.

Augmentative and Alternative Communication (AAC Resources)

Picto4Me – Create and Share Picture Exchange Communication Board
Ohio Developmental Disabilities Communication Boards

Low Cost Things to Do