A Message from Our Executive Director

Dear Friends:

As we turn the corner into autumn, we enter National Disability Employment Awareness Month, an opportunity to pay tribute to the many accomplishments of America's workers with disabilities. Workplaces where the talents of all people are welcomed, including people with disabilities, are a critical part of our efforts to build an inclusive community and strong economy.

You may not have heard of this designation, but it is extremely important for our mission as an Independent Living Center and for the consumers we serve throughout the region. This initiative is led by the U.S. Department of Labor's Office of Disability Employment Policy, but its true spirit lies in the many observances held at the grassroots level across the nation every year. Employers of all sizes and in all industries are encouraged to participate and recognize the importance of providing employment to people with disabilities.  

In this spirit, CILO recognizes National Disability Employment Awareness Month during October and the theme: Increasing Access and Opportunity. Learn more.

 
For additional information on how CILO can assist people with disabilities in Ohio and Kentucky, please contact Patrick Ober, Advocacy and Disability Rights Specialist at 513-241-2600 (Ext. 116) or by email.
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As always, I want to hear from you. Please contact me at 513-241-2600 (Ext. 211) or by email.

Regards,

Rob Festenstein

P.S. I once again have a $10 gift card to Starbucks to the first person to contact me by email indicating you have read my message.

Are you following us on Facebook and Twitter?

One-on-One Virtual Instruction for Youth Continues!
At the Center for Independent Living Options, we continue to offer Pre-Employment Transition Services for youth with disabilities using Zoom.  Scheduling will be flexible to accommodate students' school and work obligations by offering sessions after school, in the evenings during the week, as well as on Saturdays.  If you or someone you know has a family member that would benefit from Instruction in Self-Advocacy and/or Workplace Readiness Training, please contact Jeanne Menke, Youth Transition Services Specialist, by phone 513.241.2600 ext. 200 or email.  If you have an Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities counselor, they will be happy to assist in getting the process started.  

"Looking forward to seeing you in Zoom-land!" - Jeanne

Independent Living Skills/Peer Support

Increase your independent living skills through a virtual eight week interactive and practical class in partnership with the Mayerson JCC.  Classes begin October 5th! Learn more.

Participate in our Peer Support Groups via Zoom.  Learn more.

Resource:

UCEDD and the LEND Program  have developed a new brochure: "A Guide to Interacting with Police for Individuals with Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities".
 
People with intellectual, cognitive or developmental disabilities get involved as both victims and suspects/offenders with law enforcement and with the criminal justice system. The police are ready to help in many different ways to help us feel safe.
 

Did you know that Ruth Bader Ginsburg was a champion of the rights of millions of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities?  Read more.

Join us in congratulating the following employees:

Larissa Brassell, Ohio Housing Coordinator, celebrating 6 years 
Stephanie Reardon, Kentucky Housing Coordinator, celebrating 3 years

 
Did you know that shopping online with Amazon can benefit CILO? 
Each time you make a qualifying purchase at www.smile.amazon.com 0.5% comes back to CILO! Just sign in with your regular Amazon credentials and select Independent Living Options (Cincinnati) as your charity and begin shopping and supporting. Don't forget Prime Days at October 13-14!

Community Rewards Program
Learn how shopping at Kroger can benefit our programs and services throughout the year. Read more here!


Do you have a question about how you can support CILO?
Contact Debbie Moorehous, Director of Advancement by email 
or phone 513.241.2600 ext. 123 


Do you need our newsletter or other CILO publication 
in an alternative format?
Contact us at 513.241.2600 Ext. 123 or send your request via email.