We believe people should have choice and control over where and how they live their lives. Our Community Living Programs help people achieve their goals for independent community living.

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Katelyn Merzke

Meet Katelyn, one of our consumer engagement specialists. Katelyn is a graduate of Owens Community College with degrees in psychology and Occupational Therapy Assisting. She comes to us with an extensive background in advocacy, working with different groups from military families to children with disabilities. She also currently serves on the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association state board. A native of northeast Ohio, she moved to Toledo 20 years ago after meeting her husband. They are raising two boys together and are always looking forward to their next trip to Disney World.

Katelyn’s current responsibilities include facilitating a grant program funded by the Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council (OSILC). Emergency and disaster resources are available for individuals living with paralysis through this grant opportunity. Resources increase safety, security, and emergency preparedness of individuals with paralysis in their homes and communities. Katelyn works with individuals on the development of a comprehensive Individualized Emergency Preparedness Plan along with receiving a Personal Emergency Kit. Participants will also have the opportunity to attend informational sessions.

Medical Equipment and Supplies Abroad Foundation, Inc (MESA) ships medical equipment to poverty-stricken communities around the world. MESA collects and distributes medical equipment from their warehouse in Fostoria, OH and gifts items to our lending program and in turn, we provide items that benefit their needs. We value this mutually beneficial partnership.

Any item, piece of equipment, or product that is used to increase, maintain, or improve functional capabilities of individuals with disabilities is considered an assistive technology device. The Ability Center has a robust AT lending and gifting program that includes switch adapted toys, instruments, and leisure items; alternative input and output devices for computers; virtual devices (kindles, iPads, Chromebooks); and durable medical equipment. Equipment donated to our program is refurbished for lending and gifting to folks with disabilities.

Amazon’s Kindle Fire is a cost-effective way to access the internet and applications. Kindle Fire’s cost around $50 and have accessibility features including touch screen, voice activation, and screen magnification capabilities. The Kindle can be connected to the Internet for browsing, checking email, streaming shows, and engaging with friends and family. The Kindle Fire is available in the AT lending closet for our consumers to trial to increase independent living.

Prep your garden for spring or surprise your mom for Mother's Day! Purchase from Lakewood Flower Market this weekend and 20% of sales will be donated to The Ability Center's Youth and Transition Program.

Youth with disabilities create a customized plan to help gain independence in areas of recreation, employment, self-advocacy, and transition. Free classes teach young adults ages 13-24 with disabilities skills for independent living, competitive employment, or community-based living.