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An update on the RFQ process
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As we have promised, I wanted to update you on the Request for Qualifications (RFQ) process to have a provider to become the operator of the adult centers in Hamilton County. In late July, REM Ohio/Mentor Network, Person Centered Services and Active Day submitted statements for the RFQ.
After a detailed review of the statements, all three providers were interviewed last week. The process was designed to ensure that all providers have the opportunity to explain how they intend to operate in accordance with the terms specified in the RFQ. We considered each vendor's information in light of who best meets the needs of the people served, is aligned with what families want, and represents the best option for staff employed at each of the three adult centers.
Based on this process we have selected one of the three vendors as best able to meet these requirements. The selected provider will now enter into negotiations with Hamilton County to lease or buy the buildings and equipment. Due to the need to complete these negotiations, we have been advised by the County purchasing department that we are not able to announce the successful vendor at this time.
Our hope is that these negotiations will be completed promptly and that we can begin the process of transitioning services in a timely manner. We will continue to provide you with information as we are able.
These times of major change are hard for everyone involved. I want to assure you that our longstanding tradition of caring about people with disabilities, their families and our employees will continue.
Alice C. Pavey
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Home Modifications Help Family
Earlier this summer, Morgan Lee would often sit in her kitchen in awe.
"I couldn't believe it that I was able to get in the kitchen," she said. "I would find myself just sitting in here because I could. I even startled my mom a few times!"
This May Morgan's family worked with Hamilton County DD Services to modify the kitchen. Contractors removed some cabinets, installed new counters and created a lower space that allows her to get in and out of the kitchen. They also added a high-arc motion-sense faucet so Morgan can turn water on and off easily.
Before these improvements, Monica Lee said her daughter, who is 14 years old, couldn't get her wheelchair in the kitchen to help with dishes or cooking. It was also difficult to find a place for Morgan to work with her school tutor to complete assignments.
"It's great to see the expression on her face because she has the freedom to be able to come in by herself and be able to do things without help," Monica said. "It's made a world of difference and allows her to be independent."
Morgan added that these changes are helping her with new skills. "I'm learning how to stand and get stronger every day," she said. "I like to be able to help my mom or my teacher or nurse."
Photos provided by the Lee family
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Aug. 17 was the first day of school at Bobbie B. Fairfax and Margaret B. Rost schools. See more photos from the first day
on
our Facebook page
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Have a wonderful year everyone!
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Employment Success
Meet Zachariah, whose network of support -- from his parents and his transition team to his job coach and manager -- has helped him be successful at Panera. Read his story on our Employment Spotlight blog.
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By Diana Mairose, Advocacy Support Advisor
People with disabilities have a right to vote. Voting is a way your voice can be heard and can allow you to be independent while making choices that concern your life. Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 8. Here are some important tips and reminders:
- You can vote if you are registered and at least 18 years old by Election Day.
- If you have a guardian, you may still vote.
- To vote in this November's election, you must be registered to vote by Oct. 11. You can register as a new voter or update your address/name, by visiting the Hamilton County Board of Elections website or calling 513-632-7000.
- If you vote in person, you must have an ID or information with your name and current address listed, such as a bank statement, paycheck or utility bill.
- If transportation is difficult, you may also vote at home using an absentee ballot. You can then mail your ballot back to the Board of Elections or drop it off in person. More information about absentee ballots is on the BOE website or by calling 513-632-7039.
- You may have someone to help you vote at the polls or at home.
- Early voting begins on Oct. 12. You can vote by mail or during set hours at the Board of Elections, 824 Broadway St. in downtown Cincinnati.
You may also contact me with questions
by email or phone, (513) 559-6636.
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The Cincinnati Reds and ReelAbilities Film Festival are partnering to host a "Baseball For All" event during the game on Saturday, Sept. 3 to celebrate the lives and stories of people of varying abilities. Available ticket packages include $15 outer mezzanine seats or $50 Riverboat Deck tickets. Both options include a promotional lunch box cooler.
During Baseball for All, Teddy Kremer will be delivering the game ball, Patrick Henry Hughes is singing the National Anthem, and Kyle Weisker, an Oak Hills High School student who is visually impaired, will be announcing for an inning.
Hamilton County DD Services, along with other community organizations, will have an informational table set up in the Fan Zone during the game.
Click here for a flier or
here to buy tickets.
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Streetcar Opening Weekend
The streetcar opens for service on Sept. 9, with activities from ArtsWave, Findlay Market and more planned along the route for the grand opening weekend.
Cincinnati's streetcars
offer 100 percent low-floor boarding from the platforms. No ramps or stairs are needed. For those in wheelchairs, designated areas on the streetcars allow the passenger to ride freely without being secured.
For those who are hearing or vision impaired, all streetcars are equipped with notification boards with visual memos and PA systems with constant audible notifications
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A Right, Not a Privilege
What does real community life look like? Regardless of age, race, gender or disability, we are more alike than different.
Hear Cincinnati citizens share information about their neighborhoods and interests in this great video by Matthew Johnson and Ann Myres. Click here to watch.
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Kidd Center gives back to the community
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For almost a year, Kidd Center has been giving back to the community as part of the Meals on Wheels volunteer program.
It began in September 2015 through the Sycamore Senior Center in Blue Ash when a few people were invited to deliver meals once a week, said Tanikka Williams, a direct support specialist at Kidd.
Julia Doyle has been working at Kidd for eight years and was one of the first persons to volunteer for the program. She is inspired by the idea of giving back.
"I wanted to help people have a good day and make them smile," she said. "I like delivering meals and I like giving back to the community."
Matt Bowling also enjoys serving the community and helps deliver the meals to two buildings in Evendale, where Kidd is located. "I enjoy taking the meals to the people in the building," he said. "We bring the meals to them, and they enjoy our company, and I really like the snacks they have for us".
Williams said Kidd's Meals on Wheels program is a little different because the volunteers take charge. "I started to pull back from day one," she said. "I let Julia, Mat, and Anna kind of take the lead. They pull the meals out, they pack the lunches, they read the paper and know where and what door to deliver the meals to. I just make sure everything goes smoothly and just drive for them."
The volunteers from Kidd have built relationships with some of the seniors based on their personality and kindness to one another.
Story Written By Robert Shuemak
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New Medicaid eligibility requirements
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MUI Hotline |
Family Caregiver Act Advocacy
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On Monday, Aug. 1, the Ohio Department of Medicaid (ODM) began using its new Medicaid eligibility system, Ohio Benefits, for people receiving long-term services and supports.
People enrolled in home and community based waivers or residing in intermediate care facilities for individuals with intellectual disabilities (ICFs), including state-operated developmental centers (DCs), will have eligibility records in Ohio Benefits, rather than the current system, CRIS-E.
Click here for a DODD outlining how Ohio Benefits will overlap with those accessing or providing DD services. Click here for an ODM summary of the disability determination redesign
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The new MUI Reporting Hotline is active. This reporting line will allow staff, providers, and/or others to report an MUI through a voicemail system; there will also be the option to speak with a HCDDS staff if immediate assistance is needed 24 hours a day/7 days per week.
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The Association of University Centers on Disability (AUCD) is asking families and individuals to contact their legislator to support the RAISE Act.
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- Labor Day. Monday, Sept. 5. All HCDDS buildings and offices closed.
- Buddy Walk Cincinnati. 10 a.m. Saturday, Sept. 10 at Sawyer Point. Registration begins at 9 a.m. This one-mile walk and after-party benefits the Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati. More details online.
- Preschool Parent Playtime with Dramakinetics. 10-11 a.m. Saturdays, Sept. 10, Oct. 5 and Nov. 10 at the Mason Community Center. More details online. RSVP via email to Carole Willenborg.
- Leaders in Action. Noon Monday, Sept. 12 at the Support Center, 1520 Madison Road. This group works with individuals with disabilities to learn how to be advocate leaders. Anyone who receives services is invited to any of the meetings.
- HCDDS Board Meeting. 5 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 13 at the Support Center, 1520 Madison Road.
- Franks 35th Anniversary Open House. 1-2:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14 at Franks Adult Center, 5884 Bridgetown Road. Come celebrate the 35th anniversary with an '80s-themed party. Bring photos and memories to share. Call 513-598-2965 with questions.
- Leaders in Action. 6:30 p.m. Wednesday, Sept. 14 at the Support Center, 1520 Madison Road. This group works with individuals with disabilities to learn how to be advocate leaders. Anyone who receives services is invited to any of the meetings.
- Dinner & a movie for adults with autism. 6 p.m. Saturday, Sept. 17 at Envision Cinemas Bar & Grill in Blue Ash. Click here for a flier. RSVP required.
- Health Insurance Marketplace forum. 5-7 p.m. Monday, Sept. 26 at LeBlond Recreation Center, 2335 Riverside Drive. Learn more about the Affordable Care Act and the health insurance marketplace from a federally certified navigator. Register online or by calling 513-803-3846.
- Family Connecting Forum. 6:30-8:30 p.m. Tuesday, Sept. 27 at the Anderson Township library on State Road. Families can discuss ways to connect with others and how we can enhance our friend/social circle. RSVP to Ann Myres via email or by phone, 513-703-2138, by Sept. 21. Space is limited. Click here for a flier.
- Dance with My Daddy. 7-10 p.m. Friday, Oct. 7 at the Colerain Community Center. Free for children and their fathers. Click here for more information. Register by Aug. 31 to be eligible for giveaways.
- Ohio SIBS Conference. Nov. 11-12 at the Embassy Suites in Dublin. Topics include navigating the DD System to Find Good Providers; Protecting People with Disabilities from Exploitation; Self-Care as a Political Act: National Policy Updates for Sibs; and more. Click here for a flier. Registration and more details available online.
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