2 FROM SUPERINTENDENT
It has been a busy start to 2016 for DCBDD, and when reflecting, the word “grateful” comes to mind. Not only did we celebrate Developmental Disability Awareness Month in March with our Lifetime of Giving Awards, but we were also on the March 15th ballot to renew our 2.1 mill levy. This levy represented two-thirds of our organization’s budget and allows us to serve more than 2,500 individuals in Delaware County. Thanks to the hard work of the individuals we serve, their families, community providers, DCBDD staff, and the residents of Delaware County, we passed the levy at an astonishing rate. We are so thankful for the support we have continued to receive from the community. Our staff members are incredibly passionate about the work we do – supporting individuals with developmental disabilities so that they can achieve full inclusion to live, learn play, work, and participate in their communities. It is inspiring to know that Delaware County residents support our mission as well.
To kick off Developmental Disability Awareness Month, DCBDD hosted its annual Lifetime of Giving Awards. During this ceremony, we recognize those who make a difference in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. It is a way for us to say thank you and to share some of the amazing stories we hear every day. This year, DCBDD was honored to have State Representative Andrew Brenner speak at the awards. His message of service above self is one that we strive to practice in our organization, and one that we see embodied by self-advocates and providers daily. It really put into perspective the strong community that we have in Delaware County. We are so lucky to live in a community that truly cares about each other, and is willing to help others. This feeling of immense gratitude will stay with us as we continue with the rest of the year. There are a lot of great things coming up for our community, and we are excited to see what the rest of 2016 holds. As we look ahead, it’s important to remember that change is constant in life. So it’s no surprise that the field of developmental disabilities is seeing significant change across the state in multiple areas of the field, including adult day service programs, community inclusion, integrated services, and Early Intervention. Those of us advocating on behalf of and alongside those with developmental disabilities may have varying beliefs about what is best for the field, but it’s important that we continue to support each other as we adapt to new rule and law changes. At the end of the day, we all want the same thing – to do what is best for the individuals and families of those with developmental disabilities. Thank you for your continued passion to support the individuals we serve.
Racers place third in state at basketball tournament The Racers school age basketball team placed third in the Special Olympics Ohio State Basketball Tournament on March 19, in Hilliard at Heritage and Memorial Middle Schools. More than 600 athletes from all over Ohio participated. The Racers competed against seven teams in the tournament to make it to the quarterfinals.
The team included Jarrod House, Manuel Hurley, Chris Maguire, Zachary Pugh, Jason Ratti, Johnathen Schmotzer, Alex Smith, Ken Brower, Bailey Graham, and Josh Hooks. Mel House, Kent Hurley, and Jamie Hooks coached the team. Congratulations, Racers!