A Word from our Superintendent | |
Welcome to December! This past year has been filled with progress and growth for the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
We jumped into 2024 with a new strategic plan focused on our mission to support people with disabilities and their families to achieve what is important to them. We established four goals aimed at addressing gaps, including improving service quality and integration, strengthening partnerships and outreach, ensuring financial sustainability and stewardship, and enhancing staff support.
- We started providing monthly opportunities for the Voices Speaking Out Self-Advocacy group to learn about the board and encouraging participation in board meetings.
- We increased awareness of the services and supports offered by WCBDD, including improving our social media presence and having several articles published in the Cincinnati Enquirer and Warren County Post.
- The Provider Development team has been hard at work recruiting new providers and supporting and developing our current providers, including several provider appreciation initiatives.
Read our complete strategic plan here.
We held several agency events this year, including the Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Open House, Egg Hunt, Things That Go! Touch-a-Truck event, Family Fun Day, and Trunk-or-Treat. We will continue to hold all of our annual agency events in 2025, while also introducing new opportunities.
Stay tuned for our 2024 agency report for an in-depth look at this year. We look forward to carrying our momentum into 2025.
As always, if you need anything from us, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Service Coordinator, Early Childhood Primary Service Provider, Transition Coordinator, or call (513) 228-6400. In cases of emergencies, please call 1-800-800-6847. You can also check out our website at www.warrencountydd.org or our Facebook page. Thank you for your support of the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities—we’ll see you again in 2025!
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WCBDD constructs accessible home designed for local people with disabilities
(Mason, OH) — After years of planning and construction, WCBDD has finished construction on a new home that will house four people with disabilities who require 24/7 care.
Most CHAP homes are designed for people with disabilities who can live on their own with limited support. This new home, however, was designed to care for individuals whose only other option may be a nursing home.
Community Resources Director Carol Heil said this CHAP home aims to house residents who can share nursing services, creating an accessible and cost-effective avenue for people who need around the clock care.
In addition to being cost-effective for people with a limited income, many CHAP houses are also modified to be more accessible than most traditional homes. This home was designed to accommodate adults who use wheelchairs and ventilators and have a support staff.
With an obtainable nursing staff and an accessible home, four Warren County residents can reach new levels of independence.
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About CHAP
In Ohio, county boards of developmental disabilities work with nonprofit housing boards to provide housing for individuals with disabilities.
The Community Housing Assistance Program (CHAP) is a nonprofit agency that has contracted with WCBDD for over 30 years to maintain local properties for individuals with disabilities served by WCBDD.
There are 88 CHAP homes in Warren County, including single-family homes, apartment complexes, duplexes, and condominiums. Residents must be eligible to receive services from WCBDD and have financial resources to pay for rent, utilities, and support.
For more information about CHAP, contact Community Resources Director Carol Heil at (513) 228-6516 or carol.heil@warrencountydd.org.
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VSO advocates support peers at Synergy | |
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(Sandusky, OH) — Insightful conversations, a supportive environment, and an opportunity to embrace independence- individuals with developmental disabilities served by the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) took full advantage of the 2024 Synergy Conference in Sandusky, Ohio, from October 2 to 4.
The Voices Speaking Out (VSO) Self-Advocacy group is comprised of adults who receive services from WCBDD who meet monthly to advocate for independence and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities. Nineteen advocates attended the conference at the Kalahari Resort.
The conference aims “To create collaborative experiences that drive change,” and invites participants to sessions that include topics like voting rights, employment, self-direction, technology, emergency preparedness, and more.
Outside of sessions, participants enjoyed networking with other visitors, a dance party, a game night, and Ohio’s largest indoor waterpark.
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Warren County advocates ranged from first-timers to people who have attended every Synergy conference. Regardless of experience, everyone was excited for three days of education, independence, and fun.
Kim Hauck, director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, kicked off the Synergy conference on Wednesday, October 2.
“Each and every one of you plays an important role in making Ohio the best place to live,” Hauck said. “Each of you brings a unique perspective shaped by your experiences, challenges, and triumphs. This diversity is our greatest strength.”
Advocates chose how to spend their time at the conference. During the “Finding Your Place in the Workplace: Employment Stories,” session, advocates shared their workplace experiences and how they found their path to employment.
During a session titled, “Staying Cool in the Face of Crisis,” participants shared stressors in their life and coping strategies to combat those stressors.
Although each session was unique, each included an opportunity for self-reflection, collaboration, and encouragement from peers.
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Advocate Luke Marshall presents his story
Advocate Luke Marshall was featured as a speaker at a session titled, “Be Fearless: You Should Work!” He was joined by Clearwater Council of Governments Benefits & Support Specialist Paula Washek, WCBDD Work Incentive Coordinator Latosha Olinger, and additional speaker, Amanda Stockmaster.
Marshall shed light on how it is possible for individuals with developmental disabilities to work full-time and work their way off of Social Security Benefits. A full-time Houseman with the Marriott Cincinnati Northeast, Marshall has successfully worked his way off of SSI benefits.
Stockmaster, a full-time engineer, also successfully worked her way off of CDB benefits. Both Washek and Olinger were instrumental in supporting Marshall and Stockmaster through the process and offered their expertise in Social Security Work Incentives throughout the presentation.
The advocates came together to support Marshall while he presented, showing support by clapping, cheering, and recording the presentation.
Advocate Michael Yeamans also assisted with the presentation by contributing to Marshall’s PowerPoint presentation and creating the VSO anthem, “Stand Tall,” which was featured in the session.
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Man finds dream job at Cronin through faith
(Warren County, OH) — When Ross Kester, 43, moved to Centerville two years ago, he used his self-determination, kindness, and faith to find a job that turned out to be a match made in heaven.
He doesn’t remember a time before he liked cars. As a toddler, his mother, Michele Kester, recalls a time when she found him in the driver’s seat of the family car, hands and knees scraped from the crawl across the gravel driveway.
As an adult, Ross has extensive professional and personal experience with cars. After 14 years of work experience at car dealerships, he knew he wanted to find a job as a car salesman upon moving to Warren County, but he didn’t know which business would be the best fit.
He took an untraditional route finding a new job— Ross and Michele drove to each car dealership in Warren County and prayed outside each building. They were looking for a sign that they were exactly where the Lord wanted them to be.
On April 26, 2022, Ross picked Cronin Auto Group of Lebanon. Praying outside, he knew that Cronin was right for him. Entering the dealership and meeting the staff, he confirmed the feeling. He was offered a job the same day.
Over the next three months, the management team at Cronin made every effort to make accommodations for Ross before he began work in July. They communicated with Ross, his family members, his support staff, and his previous employer to ask about what accommodations he would need. They created a job description catered towards Ross’ skills.
When he heard about the accommodation Cronin made for him, Ross said it made him want to work harder for them. When he was finally able to start his new job, he was met with a huge welcome from staff members, management, and owners.
The excitement for his inclusion hasn’t died down yet— they still celebrate his presence two years later. From surprise birthday celebrations to constant features on Cronin’s social media, Ross said the Cronin team always bends over backwards to support him.
Ross loves spending time with his co-workers at work, on joyrides, or joking around. He said, “If there was a 24-hour shift, then they would sign me up for it.”
Ross plans to continue his career as a car salesman, stating “Why would I retire from my hobby?”
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During the annual WCBDD In-Service event on October 23, 2024, Superintendent Megan Manuel awarded Cronin Auto Group of Lebanon and Manager Andy Gruber with the Extraordinary Employer Award for their willingness and excitement to hire and support employees with developmental disabilities.
“[Ross] looks forward to every single day of work under Andy’s supervision and leadership,” Manuel said. “In the world that downplays the human element in favor of productivity and consumerism, Andy and his Cronin team know the value of connection, what it means to go above and beyond, and how to make the world a warmer place.”
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WCBDD awards outstanding community and staff members at In-Service awards | |
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(Lebanon, OH) —The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) shined a light on community members who have made a significant impact on individuals with developmental disabilities, WCBDD, and the greater community at the annual WCBDD In-Service event on October 23, 2024.
WCBDD Superintendent Megan Manuel presented 12 awards to WCBDD staff members, community members, and businesses who have made a difference in the local disability community. Learn more about the changemakers below.
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Kelley Castle was awarded the Rachel Rice Advocacy Award for her dedication to the Voices Speaking Out Self-Advocacy group, where she advocates for independence and inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities. | |
Tina Vance, a former WCBDD employee, was honored for her contributions to the Warren County Wildcat Cheerleaders. Manuel said Vance strives to create opportunities for everyone who wants to participate and makes use of their unique abilities. | |
Adam Layton, a Behavioral Support Coordinator for WCBDD, was honored with the Green Hat Award for his supportive, optimistic, and creative approach to helping individuals and families served by WCBDD. | |
Fiscal Coordinator Robin Derickson was awarded the Above and Beyond Award for her willingness to volunteer her time at WCBDD events, including Special Olympics, Trunk-or-Treat, Family Fun Day, DSP Appreciation, the Polar Plunge, and more. | |
WCBDD Remote Supports and Assistive Technology Coordinator Kellie Hampton was awarded with the Innovation Award for her SMART technology studio, a space resembling a studio apartment that will give visitors the opportunity to learn firsthand about assistive technology. | |
Gwen McIntire, a Community Employment Specialist, received the Dave Farmer Award for her dedication to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and advocating for their employment opportunities. McIntire’s daughter, Jill Rasnic, accepted the award on her mother’s behalf. | |
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Service Coordinator Chase Waites was awarded the Superintendent Award for his role as a “quiet leader” in the agency.
“He remains calm in stressful situations. He is highly committed to successful outcomes for himself, his coworkers, and the people he supports. He remains focused on getting things done while maintaining positive, productive relationships with others,” Manuel said.
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Records and Monitoring Specialist Carolyn Bogenschutz was awarded with the Superintendent Award for her dedication to WCBDD.
“She is always willing to assist anyone who needs it, no matter the task and no matter when you need it,” Manuel said. “She is an asset to our agency, the Early Intervention program, and she will be missed when she retires.”
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CRANE ChemPharma & Energy was selected to receive the Friends of DD Award after they donated $6,000 to the Warren County Special Olympics. | |
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Barry Riley, a board member of seven years, was awarded a Friends of DD Award for his commitment to serving on the board. He will soon be retiring from the board to serve as the next sheriff of Warren County.
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Miami Valley Gaming was awarded a Friends of DD Award for their support of Warren County Special Olympics, including raising over $7,000 when they welcomed customers to donate their spare change. | |
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In honor of National Disability Employment Awareness Month in October, Aaron Bowman, who is a member of Voices Speaking Out and a barista at The Coffee Caravan, was featured on the Lebanon City Show to talk about his role in the community.
Congratulations, Aaron!
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Ahead of the 2024 general election, WCBDD developed a voting guide to support individuals with disabilities in Warren County.
The guide, which was reviewed and approved by the Warren County Board of Elections, is written in plain language and walks readers through voting, including:
● Voting during an unforeseen hospitalization.
● Accessible voting equipment.
● Curbside voting and mail-in ballots.
● Requesting assistance for marking your ballot.
● Alternatives to signing a ballot.
● Other topics that pertain to voters with a disability.
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On December 10, WCBDD hosted a Virtual Technology Showcase featuring presentations from a range of remote support providers, assistive technology vendors, and device companies.
Each presentation showcased products and explained how their services can benefit the individuals who use them.
Contact Kellie Hampton to learn about remote supports and assistive technology.
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Complete the Agency Satisfaction Survey
The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is seeking your input. Below, you will find a link to the 2024 Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Agency Satisfaction Survey. We are asking that you take a moment to complete this survey. Your input is important in assessing our agency’s performance with a goal of continual improvement.
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Thank you,
The Warren County Board of DD
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The Early Childhood Team at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) provides support and services to families and their children under age six who are enrolled in services through WCBDD. We provide Early Intervention services, socialization events, parent/caregiver educational opportunities, and support education for the community.
Early Childhood Programs are a part of the Community Resources Division. Early Intervention (EI) services represent the largest portion of the Early Childhood services we provide. The WCBDD collaborates with the Warren County Educational Service Center (WCESC) to provide an impartial initial and annual eligibility evaluation and/or assessment of strengths and needs for all children referred to Warren County EI or “Part C” services under The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA). The team also works together to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) for the child and family.
WCBDD is the main provider of EI services for Warren County, providing service and/or support to approximately 400 children and families per month. EI services provided by WCBDD include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Special Instruction, which is delivered by a Developmental Specialist. Team members can serve as Primary Service Providers (PSP) or Secondary Service Providers (SSP) to the child and family or as part of the consultative team. All specialized services offered by the WCBDD are delivered in environments that are located in the family’s normal daily routines. The IFSP team selects these natural environment locations at the time of IFSP development. The providers utilize methods of coaching with the family and caregivers to build the capacity of the family to support the child during everyday life.
Check out this quarter’s Early Childhood highlights below!
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Goal-Crushing News!
Quinn has been a part of our Early Intervention program since February. She was referred due to a diagnosis of torticollis and plagiocephaly.
Quinn was not a big fan of tummy time or being on hands and knees to crawl in the beginning. Her early intervention service provider, who is a physical therapist, helped support Quinn’s family through evidence-based coaching. She shared and demonstrated a variety of strategies they could use in their everyday routine. By the end of the summer, Quinn was walking!
Quinn and her family have exited Early Intervention services in November after they met their goals!
Way to go, Quinn and family!
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That's a wrap on Playgroup and Open Play for 2024! | |
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Our team was so excited to return to a full-swing playgroup for Early Intervention enrolled families this year!
Prior to the Spring of 2020 and the COVID-19 pandemic, our playgroups had been a staple in providing extra social supports for children and families. During the pandemic, we had success with some “virtual playgroups” and slowly moved back into modified small groups to keep everyone healthy. We were happy to continue supporting people, while families were thankful for the ongoing opportunity for connection.
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Moving into 2024, we took all we learned over many years of offering this opportunity and came back full force with traditional playgroup, accompanied by the new Early Childhood Open Play! Open Play is time on our playground at the Milo H. Banta Center for enrolled children and their families up to age 6! This new opportunity allowed parents, caregivers, and children to play together and make new friends. Outdoor play allowed children and adults to explore and interact, all while getting much-needed fresh air and exercise. Some of the hotter days brought us into the playgroup room, but the fun continued inside!
Thank you to all the families who attended. We hope you have enjoyed your time with each other and made meaningful connections to carry with you!
The next Playgroup session will begin January 28. The next Open Play session will begin April 29. Stay tuned for updates!
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Join our next Early Childhood Playgroup session
Tuesdays, January 28 through March 25, 2025
from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. OR
10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.
at the Milo H. Banta Center, 410 S. East St.
Children enrolled in WCBDD services ages birth to three and their parent/ caregiver are invited to attend our Tuesday morning playgroup for outside play, story time, singing and crafts.
During the 60-minute group, parents/caregivers and their children have the opportunity to connect with one another while participating in a semi-structured playgroup session led by WCBDD Developmental Specialists and Advocacy Coordinator.
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Virtual Toileting Training
Thursday, January 30 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
This 90-minute virtual workshop presented by Envision will provide an in-depth look at the multiple components involved in assessing toileting readiness, determining necessary preparation.
The virtual workshop is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities services. This is brought to you through a contract with Envision.
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Event, Support, and Educational Opportunities Survey
WCBDD Early Childhood team is striving to provide events, supports, and educational opportunities for families in ways that meet your family’s needs. Having positive social opportunities and support is crucial for children and their families. For children, community connections can give a sense of belonging, build resiliency, help in development of social-emotional and other skills. For parents and caregivers, being in touch with other adults through activities and events helps support your family and build relationships within your community.
Our goal is to continually provide ways for you to communicate your family’s needs and interests so that we may develop programming and share community information with you. We ask that you take a moment to complete the survey through the link below to help us better connect opportunities to families receiving services through the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
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Thank you,
Your WCBDD Early Childhood Team
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Resource Corner
Here are a few websites and resources we encourage you to check out!
Ohio Early Intervention - Information about Ohio’s Early Intervention System.
Ohio Department of Children and Youth - Ohio’s Early Childhood Programs and Services for Children and Families.
Zero to Three - Information and Resources on Child Development from birth to age three.
Imagination Library – Sign up to have free children’s books delivered to your home every month.
OCALI - Information and resources to inspire change and promote access to opportunities for people with disabilities.
Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities - The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD) is a statewide nonprofit organization that serves families of infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities in Ohio, educators, and agencies who provide services to them.
Ohio Department of Education and Workforce/Special Education – The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce is a diverse team of passionate, education-focused professionals responsible for overseeing and enhancing the quality of education for each of Ohio’s 1.7 million students.
Pause for Parents, Play for Kids – Pause for Parents, Play for Kids is a 501c3 organization providing rest, support, connection, and fun to special needs kids and their families.
Warren County Ohio, Libraries – Link to list of all Warren County Public Libraries.
Warren County Ohio, Parks - Website for the Warren County Park District and all the many places to get out and experience nature.
Click here to download quick resources for Early Childhood-friendly activities.
We look forward to providing your family with more services and opportunities throughout 2025. You can look forward to Friday Friends at the Park events starting up in spring of 2025. Additionally, more Storytime Strategies and other opportunities to explore our community! For any questions or additional information regarding Early Childhood Services, please contact:
Kelly Brooks, MS
Early Childhood Manager
Kelly.brooks@warrencountydd.org or 513-228-6520
OR
Maria Froendhoff
Early Childhood Manager
Maria.froendhoff@warrencountydd.org or 513-228-6462
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WCBDD and the Miracle League of Greater Dayton celebrated opening day of the Miracle Field in Springboro at Family Fun Day on Sept. 14, 2024. | Attendants pose for a photo at the WCBDD Halloween Movie night, hosted on Oct. 25, 2024. | |
Hundreds of trick-or-treaters and community members visited WCBDD's annual Trunk-or-Treat event on Oct. 14, 2024. The Jeep Lifestyle Group showed off dozens of decorated jeeps. | Illusionist Jake Lindsey performed a free show for individuals served by WCBDD on Nov. 25, 2024. | | | | |
