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