Community Movie Day is tomorrow!

Join us for a free community event open to all ages and abilities at the Maumee Indoor Theater! Doors open at 1 p.m. tomorrow (Feb. 22) and the movie Inside Out 2 will start at 1:30 p.m. Grab your family, neighbors and friends and enjoy the show! All attendees will be entered into a raffle to win the prize pack pictured here, which includes a DVD of the movie!

Board Meeting Monday

The monthly meeting of the Board of Directors of the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities is at 5:30 p.m. Feb. 24. The meeting is open to the public at Lucas DD's South Toledo headquarters.

DD Awareness & Advocacy Day Watch Party on March 4

Did you miss out on the in-person registration for DD Awareness & Advocacy Day in Columbus? Don't worry, you can still be part of the event with others! Join us 9 - 11 a.m. March 4 as we watch a livestream of the event together at the Board.

Inclusive Zoom Call on March 5

Join the discussion with Lucas DD from 11 a.m. to noon on March 5 for an overview of events celebrating DD awareness month. Wear Orange! Learn about special events in March, share the ways you'll be celebrating, and maybe even play a game! 

SALUTE Meeting (Hybrid) March 10

SALUTE, Lucas DD's self-advocacy group, has their next meeting at 5:30 p.m. on March 10. The guest speaker is Lisa Sobecki, Lucas County Commissioner. Topics include a plan to expand affordable housing in Lucas County and how your advocacy can help, other Lucas County accessibility and inclusion initiatives, as well as the overall role of Commissioners. Questions? Reach out to Deetra Kelly at 419-380-5141.

Lucas DD Night at the Pistons March 15

The Detroit Pistons have once again partnered with Lucas DD for an Autism Awareness Night game at 7 p.m. on March 15 at Little Caesar’s Arena. A portion of all tickets purchased through this link will be donated to our FANS network. You'll also get a free gift from the Pistons as well as the opportunity to shoot a free throw on the court after the game. If you can’t go, please share the link with your networks to help raise money for a great cause!

Statewide Stakeholders Urge Ohio Congressional Reps to Protect Medicaid

As part of continuing efforts to influence national discussions on the future of Medicaid-funded services, members of the Ohio Developmental Disabilities Coalition sent a joint letter Friday morning to Ohio’s congressional delegation, emphasizing the vital role Medicaid plays in the lives of Ohioans with Developmental Disabilities.

The letter outlined key aspects of Medicaid, including its role in helping people with disabilities live independently, secure meaningful employment, and access respite and support services for caregivers. It also underscored Medicaid’s support for intermediate care facilities and other essential services.

Personally reach out to your U.S. Rep. by clicking this link from ANCOR

The coalition urged Ohio's 15 U.S. Representatives and both U.S. Senators to protect Medicaid funding and oppose any proposed cuts to Long-Term Services and Supports (LTSS) and Home and Community-Based Services (HCBS). Additionally, the letter called on Congress to reject efforts to cap, block grant, or reduce federal Medicaid funding.

In addition to OACB, the letter was signed by representatives from the Ohio Self Determination Association (OSDA), Values & Faith Alliance, Ohio Provider Resource Association (OPRA), Ohio Association of Direct Support Professionals (OADSP), The Arc of Ohio, Ohio Health Care Association (OHCA), and People First of Ohio.

Special Olympics Spring Sports Registration for Adults is Open!

It is still be cold out, but it's time to sign up for Lucas County Lightning's spring sports (adults only at this time)! Our coaches and volunteers need time to get everything set for another awesome season. They are offering Volleyball, Tennis, Bocce, and Track & Field. The optional bonus activities, Walking Group and Healthy Athletes, are also back! You can only choose one sport and must register by March 7 to participate! Click here to read the full newsletter.

Little Lightning Spring Newsletter

The Lucas County Little Lightning newsletter was published today. Click here to read the newsletter recapping the winter sports season and spring sports registration information.

Bowling with Heroes Registration is Open!

In celebration of DD Awareness Month in March, individuals served by the Board will have the opportunity to bowl with local firefighters and police officers from noon - 2 p.m. on March 29. Must register to participate! Space is limited. Click here to register an individual. Please email Kelley Watson to register if you are a firefighter or police officer who would like to participate!



Universal Changing Stations Coming to Ohio Rest Stops

Did you know that several Ohio rest stops will have universal changing stations added by the end of 2026? Gov. DeWine held a press conference last month to celebrate the opening of the first rest stops with universal changing tables. Located at the newly redesigned I-71 rest areas in Jeffersonville, the universal changing stations are part of a family restroom, and include an adjustable table in a clean, safe, and private area. 

Learn more about this effort by clicking here to watch the press conference. 

Lucas DD Inclusion Resource Fair

Lucas DD's annual Inclusion Resource Fair is 5:30 - 7:30 on March 19 at St. Clement Hall in north Toledo. This inclusive event features many activities, resources, and giveaways, is open to the public, and is FREE to attend. Click here to register!

Call for Artists! 2025 Lucas DD Art Exhibit

Lucas DD is seeking artwork by individuals with DD to showcase in a public art exhibit. Artwork will be displayed March 24 - 31 at Franklin Park Mall, with an optional "Meet the Artists" event from 1 - 3 p.m. on March 30. Deadline to submit artwork is March 7. Please email marketing@lucasdd.org if you are interested.

Greater Toledo Challenger Little League Sign-Up on Sunday

The Greater Toledo Challenger Little League is designated for mentally and/or physically challenged children ages 5+. There is also a senior league for ages 21+. In-person registration from 2 - 4 p.m. Feb. 23 and 12-2 p.m. March 2. Cost is $45 for 10 weeks, but no child will be turned away because of financial issues. Click headline for full details.

Apps to Support Wellness Webinar on Feb. 24

The PACER Center is hosting a webinar as part of their wellness series. From 3 - 4 p.m. on Feb. 24, their workshop will demonstrate apps that support wellness for teens and adults. Examples will include apps that help individuals understand their emotions, practice calm breathing and guided meditation, track their moods, and develop healthy habits.

F.E.A.R. Factor on Feb. 26

"I can‘t work because I will lose my benefits!" If this statement sounds familiar, this information is for you! Ohio has developed a training series to help individuals with disabilities address their “F.E.A.R.” related to working and maintaining disability benefits. From 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 26, join a zoom call to answer questions you may have about Medicaid Buy In and Workability.

Rare Diseases Day on Feb. 28

February 28 is Rare Disease Day. Click here to access a variety of materials you need to raise awareness and inspire change for the millions of people living with a rare disease. You'll find social media posts, posters, infopacks, tool kits, fact sheets, infographics and more, in a variety of languages!

Acoustics for Autism on March 2

Join Acoustics for Autism in Uptown Maumee beginning at 11:45 a.m. on March 2 for their 18th year celebration! It will be a great day to rock out with free admission, 9 stages, and 100 bands!

Assistive technology for dyslexia (virtual) on March 4

The PACER Center is offering a free virtual session from 2 - 3 p.m. on March 4 highlighting tools to help with dyslexia. This webinar will demonstrate assistive technology tools for reading and writing. It will emphasize helpful technology for individuals with dyslexia of all ages. Must register.

Dungeons & Dragons on March 5

Do you like to play Dungeons and Dragons, or would you like to learn how to play? Join this DD-friendly group every other Wednesday evening, beginning at 7 p.m. on March 5! Sessions are limited to 3-5 players, be sure to reserve your spot today!

List of Grants Available

Need help funding summer camp, therapy, sensory equipment, social skills groups, and so much more? There are grants available to help! Click the headline to check out the list compiled by Parent Partner Tammy Eisenreich. You can also attend her workshops next month at no cost (but some of the grants on this list have imminent deadlines), or schedule a 1:1 session with Tammy to submit grant applications.

Supportive Technology Virtual Learning Sessions

Jennifer White of Able Opportunities will facilitate multiple learning sessions concerning low- and high-tech personal-driven accommodation tools and provide an overview of person-driven tech from February through April. These opportunities are virtual and free to attend!

Click the links below to learn more and register.

·   Low Tech Person-Driven Accommodation Tools

·   High Tech Person-Driven Accommodation Tools

·   Person-Driven Tech

For questions or accommodations, please email technologyfirst@dodd.ohio.gov. 

Free Digital Literacy Trainings

The Arc and AT&T have joined forces on a nationwide program that is bringing digital skills training to people with disabilities and their families. Digital literacy is critical in today’s world to learn, apply for jobs, be socially connected, and more. Unfortunately, for a variety of reasons, people with disabilities are 3 times less likely to go online than people without disabilities. You'll find free, safe and accessible digital skills trainings that accommodate the different learning styles of people with disabilities.

OADSP TRAINING SERIES

Join us from 9 a.m. - noon Feb. 26 for Lucas DD's second monthly OADSP training session; Module #108: Interpersonal Communication. This module focuses on the importance of communication and its role in providing the best services to individuals. Participants will learn about the “Four Approaches to Communication” and how to identify and navigate both the internal and external barriers to effective communication, as well as identifying the qualities of an “assertive communicator." The course also covers the use of “special techniques” for assertive communication, including the traits of an effective listener. 3 hours of CEUs for IA, EI, SSA, Adult Services, and Supt. have been requested. The training meets the requirements of OAC 5123-2-08 Appendix C Annual and OAC 5123-2-09 Appendix A Annual under Components of Quality Care. To register, please e-mail drussell@lucasdd.org.  

Social Skills Resource

Social skills are like any other skill. If you study and practice, you'll get better. You don't need to be born with natural charisma, and it's never too late to learn. Improve Your Social Skills is a comprehensive website with a practical guide to social skills. It contains an abundance of free social skills activities. You'll discover everything that you need to learn the fundamental skills of social interaction - skills like conversation, body language and empathy - as well as strategies for achieving your social goals, whether you want to make new friends, start a romance, or feel more confident in social settings. Learn how to find the people who want to connect with the real you!

Join the Lucas DD Human Rights Committee!

Lucas DD is seeking an individual served by the Board to join our Human Rights Committee (HRC).

The HRC meeting is held hybrid on the 1st Wednesday of the month from 9 a.m. to noon.

• Members are required to attend in person at Lucas DD or online via Zoom.
• Information regarding individuals being presented at HRC will be provided the week prior via email.
• Provided information (OISP and Behavior Assessment) should be reviewed prior to HRC meeting.

Committee Members discuss how to ensure:

1. Individuals with developmental disabilities are supported in a caring and responsive manner that promotes dignity, respect, and trust; that they are equal citizens with the same rights and personal freedoms granted to Ohioans without developmental disabilities.
2. Their services and supports are based on an understanding of the individual and the reasons for the individuals' actions
3. Effort is directed at creating opportunities for individuals to exercise choice in matters affecting their everyday lives and supporting individuals to make choices that yield positive outcomes; and
4. Restrictive measures are used only when necessary to keep people safe and always in conjunction with positive measures.

Individuals who receive, or are eligible to receive, specialized services receive a $50 payment per session attended! If you are interested in being part of this committee, please email Sarah Dodson.

DODD Seeks Input from Fathers of Individuals with DD

Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) continues to build on a collaboration among state agencies, communities, and networks of support to ensure fathers of children with developmental disabilities are supported, engaged, and empowered. 

To keep moving forward, they are asking, "What is a father's current perspective? What are fathers' experiences in systems that support their children with developmental disabilities? What do fathers want? What do fathers need? How do 'systems' and organizations best support fathers of children with developmental disabilities?"

If you are an Ohio father of a child/children with a developmental disability, of any age, please click here to take their short survey.

Attention K-3 Teachers in Lucas County

In celebration of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March, Lucas DD is looking for teachers interested in having someone read a children's book to their students. If you'd like to have someone visit your class, please email marketing@lucasdd.org or call 419-380-4048.

Board Vacancy at Bittersweet Farms

Bittersweet Farms is seeking dedicated and passionate individuals to join its Board of Directors and support its mission of empowering individuals with autism through innovative programs and services. Bittersweet seeks leaders with expertise in construction/real estate, engineering, information technology, marketing/advertising, human resources, autism/education, public administration, and maintenance. Board members provide strategic guidance, support fundraising efforts, and help expand their impact. For more information, email Executive Director Megan Thompson mthompson@bittersweetfarms.org.

Board Vacancy at Preferred Properties

Preferred Properties, Inc. has a current vacancy on its 9-member Board of Directors. The nonprofit focuses on creating housing opportunities through a variety of programs for persons with developmental disabilities. Its goal is to develop housing in such a way that persons living with disabilities are effectively integrated into communities and neighborhoods Learn more at P2Housing.org. If you're interested in being a part of the Board, email Executive Director Cheryl Wilson cwilson@preferred-properties.org.

Inclusion Resource Fair Vendors

If you are a DD friendly business or program and want to connect with hundreds of local families, consider registering as a vendor for Lucas DD's annual Inclusion Resource Fair. The 2025 fair will be from 5:30 - 7:30 p.m. March 19 at St. Clement Hall in Toledo. This event is FREE for everyone to participate but vendors must register. Click here to register your organization.

2025 OhioISP Feedback Survey

The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities invites you to take a survey to express your thoughts, ideas, and suggestions to improve the OhioISP template and process. Share your feedback based on your role in the system. Your input will directly inform updates to the OhioISP. The results of the survey will identify key areas that need updated within the standardized OhioISP template to better understand the needs, preferences, and choices of Ohioans with Developmental Disabilities. 

Friday Update is the weekly newsletter of the Lucas County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

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Have some news or an event to share? Contact Us!

419-380-4000

marketing@lucasdd.org