Ohio Association of County Boards of DD

06/16/2026

Planning a trip to the Ohio State Fair? The Fair runs July 29-August 9 and offers a variety of accessibility supports to help everyone enjoy the experience, including accessible parking and shuttles, communication boards, ASL interpretation, companion tickets, wheelchair charging stations, quiet rooms, and more.

Sensory-Friendly Morning will take place July 30 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., featuring reduced lights and sounds, sensory activities, quiet spaces, and other supports designed to create a more comfortable experience for fairgoers.

Before you go, check out the Ohio State Fair Accessibility Guide and plan your visit: https://www.ohiostatefair.com/p/visit/accessibility

06/12/2026

When school is out for the summer, many families lose access to the meals their children rely on during the school year. Programs like SUN Meals and SUN Bucks help bridge that gap and ensure children continue to have access to nutritious food all summer long.

Free SUN Meals are available to children ages 18 and under, as well as youth through age 21 with disabilities who have an approved IEP. Families may also qualify for SUN Bucks, which provides $120 per eligible child to help purchase groceries during the summer months.

Find meal sites and learn more at education.ohio.gov/kidseat

06/08/2026

Thanks to a partnership between the Montgomery County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Changing Spaces Ohio, and the National Park Service, a new universal changing table has been installed at the Wright-Dunbar Interpretive Center at Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park!

This addition provides a safe, hygienic, and dignified space for people with disabilities who need adult-sized restroom accommodations, helping ensure more families and visitors can fully enjoy one of our state's most treasured historic destinations. Thank you to Montgomery DD and all the partners who helped make this project possible!

Read more below:

DAYTON, Ohio (WKEF) -- Visitors to Dayton Aviation Heritage National Historical Park now have access to a universal changing table designed to serve people with

05/29/2026

Congratulations to Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities on being awarded a 3-year accreditation by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities—the highest level of accreditation awarded by the state!

This recognition reflects Delaware DD’s ongoing commitment to providing high-quality services and supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Achieving the highest level of accreditation demonstrates a strong dedication to excellence, continuous improvement, and meeting the needs of the community!

We are proud to announce that the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities has been awarded a 3 Year Accreditation by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities! This recognition, the highest award possible, reflects our team's unwavering dedication to high-quality supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families in our community. Thank you to our incredible employees for the work you do every day. This achievement belongs to you!

05/28/2026

To kick off the second day of the 2026 Spring Conference in Columbus, Tim and Bridget Vogt of Starfire explored how strengthening community connections and natural supports can improve quality of life while promoting long-term sustainability within the DD system. Through real-life examples and practical strategies, panelists Achsah Fitzhugh, Greg Greiwe, Nestor and Sophia Melnyk, Alyson Miskimens, and Mike Holmes challenged county boards to view themselves not only as service systems but as community builders that foster belonging, relationships, and shared responsibility. Following the keynote panel, participants attended another 16 breakout sessions, this time focused on Health, Safety, and Wellness, Children and Families, Business Managers, and Communications. Thank you again to those of you who made this conference such a success!

05/27/2026

Congratulations to the Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities on receiving a three-year accreditation from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, which is the highest level of accreditation awarded by the state!

This recognition reflects the incredible work happening every day in Marion County to support people with developmental disabilities and their families. From advocacy and family support to community inclusion and innovative programs, Marion DD continues to demonstrate its commitment to providing high-quality services and responding to the needs of the local community.

Read more about it here: https://marioncountynow.com/news/277772-marion-county-board-of-developmental-disabilities-earns-three-year-dodd-accreditation/

05/26/2026

OACB welcomed more than 500 attendees, dozens of exhibitors, and partners for the 2026 Spring Conference, held at the Hilton Columbus Downtown. Day 1 opened with keynote Kristin Cox (pictured at right) presenting on the challenging belief that leaders must choose between person-centered supports and operational efficiency, offering a systems-thinking approach to improving outcomes while using resources more effectively. Drawing on her experience transforming large government systems, Kristin shared strategies for identifying where results are breaking down and leading meaningful, lasting change in complex organizations. Following her keynote, participants attended 16 breakout sessions within tracks focused on Early Intervention, Board Leadership, SSA, and Human Resources.

Thanks to everyone who attended, sponsored, and presented. Stay tuned for more photos from day 2 later this week!

05/19/2026

The Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council(OSILC) wants to hear from people with disabilities!

Share your experiences, goals, and any challenges you face—whether or not you are connected with Center for Independent Living (CIL) services. Your feedback will help improve services and help OSILC better support people with disabilities in the community.

Please take the survey today using the link below:
https://www.research.net/r/OSILC_Survey

05/13/2026

Spring is the perfect time to get outside, enjoy the sunshine, and explore Ohio’s natural beauty! The Ohio Department of Natural Resources recently released its new Accessible Trails Guide, highlighting accessible trails located at state parks, nature preserves, and wildlife areas across the state. The guide includes trails with flat, stable surfaces designed to help more people experience nature, wildlife viewing, and the outdoors.

Learn more and download the guide here: ohiodnr.gov/OutdoorsForAll

05/08/2026

Congratulations to Goodwill Easter Seals Miami Valley on the grand opening of its new Adult Day Support Center in Hillsboro!
The new center will provide opportunities for people with disabilities to build relationships, participate in their community, and receive individualized support in a welcoming environment. Services include transportation, engaging daily activities, and community-based programming designed to promote independence and quality of life. OACB also recognizes the Highland County Board of Developmental Disabilities for its partnership and support in helping expand services and opportunities for people served in the community.

Read more here: https://www.timesgazette.com/2026/05/04/goodwill-easter-seals-holds-ribbon-cutting/