1. Governor announces Ohio COVID-19 Vaccination Program
Governor DeWine is sharing information about vaccine distribution in Ohio.
Initially, there will be a limited number of vaccines available, and Ohio is committed to making it widely available for those who want to receive it as quickly as possible as shipments arrive. In conjunction with the recommendations of medical experts from ACIP and NAESM, Ohio has identified who will be among the first to receive those very early shipments in Phase 1A, should they choose to be vaccinated:
• Healthcare workers and personnel, who are routinely involved in the care of COVID-19 patients
• Residents and staff in nursing homes
• Residents and staff in assisted living facilities
• Patients and staff at state psychiatric hospitals
• People with developmental disabilities and those with mental illness, who live in group homes or centers, and staff at those locations
• Residents and staff at our two homes for Ohio veterans
• EMS responders
Using all the tools available to help prevent the spread of the virus continues to be critical until a substantial number of Ohioans can be vaccinated. Continuing to wear masks and social distance will reduce your chance of being exposed to or spreading the virus. Proper prevention measures coupled with the vaccine will provide the best protection from COVID-19.
As vaccine supply increases, the state will continue to vaccinate Ohioans who choose to receive it.
Meantime the governor is urging us to follow these guidelines:
2. Applicants sought for opening on the Board of DD
The Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities is seeking to fill a vacancy on its Board of Directors. Applicants shall be residents of Lucas County, citizens of the United States, interested and knowledgeable in the field of intellectual disabilities and other allied fields, and, to the maximum extent possible, have professional training and experience in business management, finance, law, health care practice, personnel administration, or government service. The appointment will be to serve a 4-year term beginning January 1, 2021 through December 31, 2024. Interested applicants will need to complete an Application for Public Volunteer located on website www.co.lucas.oh.us and attach resume. Please submit materials to Benjamin Pushka, Board of Lucas County Commissioners, One Government Center, Suite 800, Toledo, OH 43604, by Wednesday, December 30, 2020.
3. Arc of Ohio is seeking your input on new survey
The Arc of Ohio would like you input in a new behavior support assessment survey for persons with Intellectual and developmental disabilities. Results of the survey will help Arc determine the need for services across Ohio. Take the survey.
4. New Facebook group is for discussion of developmental disabilities issues
A new group on Facebook has started where Lucas County families and professionals can discuss issues, concerns, and questions about dd services. Find the new group and join at https://www.facebook.com/groups/dddiscussion/
5. Donation Drive continues
The Lucas County Board of DD will be conducting a donation drive until December 16 , to collect non-perishable food items, cleaning items, and person care materials. The drop off location will be the the Administration Building at 1154 Larc Lane. Drop off boxes will be at the main entrance. Click here to read the flyer.
6. Special Olympics/Recreation updates
Click here to read or download the virtual calendar for the week of December 14.
Follow this link for information about the upcoming virtual talent show.
7. Assured Health Services has openings
Click here for more information.
8. Ability Center celebrates its 100th anniversary
We want to congratulate the Ability Center on its 100th anniversary! The task at hand is to ensure that the Toledo area is the most disability-friendly community in the country. Watch the centennial reflection here.
9. CommUNITY Filmfest plans a virtual showcase on January 30
Here's an opportunity to break the pandemic boredom and view some of the CommUNITY Filmfest award-winning videos from the previous six years. That will be virtually via Zoom on January 30. And there will be information presented to let you know how to become involved in the 2021 Filmfest. Click here for all the information.
10. Worth Repeating
"Life takes on meaning when you become motivated, set goals and charge after them in an unstoppable manner." -Les Brown