1. Superintendent says Board will continue on cautious path

At her most recent Family and Advocate Forum, Superintendent Lori Mariucci indicated that during the pandemic the Lucas County Board of DD will continue operations with an emphasis on caution. She said that the health and safety of the individuals served, their families and staff will continue to be paramount; therefore, the coronavirus safety protocols are continuing. Unfortunately, out of 88 counties, Lucas County has the second highest number of deaths of individuals with developmental disabilities.

The County Board has created a Post-Pandemic Committee to discuss protocols for the future. Assistant Superintendent Michele Myerholtz is leading this Committee.

Even though our facilities are still closed, staff are working remotely should you need to contact them.

2. State lawmakers debate the budget

The Senate's version of the budget bill continues to include a state-funded Medicaid reimbursement rate increase for all settings, including HCBS, ADS, ICFs, and more that would raise the reimbursement rate by 2% per year in each year of the biennium. The rate increase was inserted by members of the Senate Finance Committee at the urging of DD stakeholders. The bill is now in conference committee.

3. Arc of Ohio conducts Family Interest Survey

The Arc of Ohio wants to hear from families, self advocates and professionals as it plans future programs and service. Click here to take the survey.

4. Lucas County athlete is headed to the Special Olympics USA Games

Special Olympics USA Games Lucas County Special Olympics athlete Sarah Powers received a surprise announcement this week. She will be on Team Ohio for the 2022 USA Games to be held in Orlando. Sarah, who has been competing with Special Olympics for 20 years, will be competing in Cheer. Pictured with Sarah are her teammates and the Northview High School cheerleaders. The volunteer coach is Melanie Wolfrum.

5. FANS Network seeking volunteers

Follow this link to learn more about FANS and learn about programs to donate time and resources in support of individuals with developmental disabilities.

6. DD Council conducting satisfaction survey

If you are an Ohioan with a developmental disability or a family member, the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Council is asking you to participate in its Consumer Satisfaction Survey. Click here to take the survey.

7. Local groups rally to raise money for inclusive baseball facility

Miracle League of Northwest Ohio is currently building a new fully accessible concession facility. The organization provides an opportunity for kids of all abilities to come together over the love of baseball. Funding is still needed to purchase necessary materials to complete the building and equipment vital to the success of the program.

The Ability Center donated over $8,000 to help fund this project. To celebrate the 100th anniversary of the organization, The Ability Center aims to become the most disability-friendly community in the country. The organization welcomes accessible spaces throughout the community that lead to involvement and enjoyment for all people.

Miracle League board members consulted with Ability Center staff to advise on accessibility and ease of use of the concessions and restrooms at the field. The Ability Center offers this service to local partners to ensure accessibility and ADA compliance.

“When we create more avenues for play for people of all abilities, we all win. Supporting the inclusive work of Miracle League was important for us as we look ahead to creating the most disability-friendly community in the country," said Mallory Crooks, Public Relations Manager for The Ability Center.

8. Ability Center Youth Leadership Forum

The Ability Center is pleased to welcome Brent Anderson as part of our 2021 Youth Leadership Forum. Brent is a self-advocate, entrepreneur, inspirational speaker, humor aficionado and man living with autism. We invite people to join us Wednesday, June 23, 2021 at 3:00 p.m. Register here.

9. Unified Softball teams are being organized

Batter Lucas County Special Olympics has teamed up with the City of Toledo to offer a unified softball league this summer. You do not have to be a softball star to play, but do recommend you know the game and have played at least a little at some point. Click here for all the information and to register if you are interested. Our goal is to have at least 4 teams that will play weekly games against each other.