Y
L I FE
A hiring manager shares best practices for a standout résumé Land a Job
Page 8
Michael Ginn finds motivation to finish his education
Page 13
More Than Merengue
Mary Ramirez Cook loves to dance. Her passion, along with her son Mathew, inspired her to start a class for people with disabilities. They meet on Wednesday evenings at A-Marika Dance Company in Sharonville, with some dancers coming for 15 years! "It’s a safe zone, where everyone can be happy and carefree,” she said.
Page 10
My Life Editorial Team
Ryan Braun
Director of Community Relations
Lisa Danford Community Relations
Coordinator
Anna Leah Swafford, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn, Sarah Phillips
Writers & Contributors
Anna Leah Swafford, Ryan Braun, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn, Lisa Danford, Sarah Phillips, Brooke Whitfield, Amanda Nageleisen, Ann Myres
7 Banking Basics
A checking account is one of the most important financial tools you can have. Experts from Fifth Third Bank share advice to help you find the best checking account for your needs and goals.
8 Writing a RÉsumÉ
A résumé is an important document that tells employers about your skills and previous work experience. Learn tips to format your résumé and stand out from other candidates.
13 Pursuing My Dreams and Finishing My Education
Michael Ginn was just a few points shy of receiving his high school diploma. Nearly 30 years later, he found the motivation to go back to school and earn his GED.
In Every Issue
News & Notes
Leia’s Letter
News: Increasing event accessibility, New date for Abilities at Bat, and more Pages 4-6
My Voice
Meet Five Local Advocates
5 Questions Podcast Host Nate Turner Pages 14-16
My Life
Cincinnati’s Creative Scene In Focus NEW Things to Do & Word Search Pages 17-19
Spring has arrived, bringing new beginnings and fresh inspiration. If you’re looking to get involved in our region’s vibrant arts scene, find a job, or get motivated to learn something new –you’ll find it in this issue of My Life!
Our cover story shines a spotlight on A-Marika Dance Company, an inclusive dance studio where people of all abilities can express themselves through movement. Learn how this studio is creating a welcoming space for dancers of all backgrounds.
Our feature on résumé writing breaks down the process into simple steps. Whether you’re applying for your first job or changing careers, a hiring manager shares tips to help your résumé stand out.
We also introduce you to Michael Ginn, who recently made the decision to get his GED. His journey is a reminder that it’s never too late to set new goals and work toward your dreams.
If warmer weather has you ready to explore, Cincinnati has excellent options to enjoy music, theater, museums, and more this season.
In this issue’s 5 Questions interview, you’ll meet Nate Turner, podcast host for the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. Learn about his work, his role models, and some of his most memorable interviews.
Be sure to check out photos from local events that brought people together to celebrate inclusion, advocacy, and storytelling. And for a little extra fun, don’t miss our word search puzzle—perfect for a relaxing break!
We hope this issue inspires you to explore new opportunities and enjoy all that spring has to offer. Happy reading!
HCDDS has new website domain
Hamilton County DD Services has a new website and email system. On Feb. 4, our website became HamiltonDDSOhio.gov. Our staff email addresses transitioned to the new domain throughout February.
Please update any browser bookmarks to the new HCDDS web address: HamiltonDDSOhio.gov. If you include a link to our website in your email or other communications, please redirect it to the new address.
Please also update email lists with our new email addresses, which now end in @HamiltonDDSOhio.gov.
Momentum Refresh Coming Back to Cincinnati Events
Momentum Refresh, a fully accessible mobile restroom vehicle, will be back in Cincinnati this year! Hamilton County DD Services is thrilled to bring back Refresh in 2025 for a limited number of events, including Taste of Cincinnati, PigAbilities, Cincinnati Pride, On Point Music Festival and more.
“My experience was really nice. I expected to have to use a porta-potty, which is extremely difficult to use, so this is a lot better,” said one user. “My backup plan is always to have to head home and use the bathroom, so this lets me stay here longer.”
Last year, HCDDS brought Momentum Refresh to 32 different community events. More than 1,100 people used Refresh in 2024, and Momentum provided nearly 1,300 tours!
“It makes the community so much more accessible. It’s just really great to know that I can go someplace now as a disabled person in a wheelchair and be able to use the lavatories,” said another user.
Learn about Refresh’s features and find a list of upcoming events at HamiltonDDSOhio.gov/Refresh
Momentum Refresh, a fully accessible mobile restroom, will be back in Cincinnati this summer
Momentum Refresh was at 32 different community events last year.
Abilities at Bat Moves to May
Abilities at Bat is moving its annual event to the spring. This year’s celebration is Saturday, May 24 during the 4:10 p.m. Cincinnati Reds game against the Chicago Cubs.
The first 750 people who buy an Abilities at Bat ticket will receive a branded tumbler. Ticket prices start at $32. Everyone with an Abilities at Bat ticket also has an opportunity to participate in the on-field parade before the game.
Abilities at Bat supports multiple disability services organizations in Cincinnati. Visit Reds.com/AbilitiesAtBat to get your tickets.
Make Your Voice Heard
This year, many advocates have been speaking up about proposals in Congress that could significantly reduce Medicaid funding. Disability advocacy groups like ANCOR and The Arc have developed
Abilities at Bat, set for May 24, celebrates local disability services organizations.
resources to help you make your voice heard on this topic.
If you need assistance with advocacy, you can reach out to Amber Cowart at Amber.Cowart@HamiltonDDSOhio.gov.
Help plan Hamilton County’s celebration of America’s 250th Anniversary
Hamilton County is preparing for America’s 250th Anniversary in 2026, and you can be part of it! The Board of County Commissioners invites registered voters to join the America 250-Ohio Hamilton County Committee, a volunteer group helping to shape local events.
Led by Clerk of Courts Pavan Parikh and Cincinnati Museum Center CEO Elizabeth Pierce, this committee will highlight Hamilton County’s deep historical roots. Visit HamiltonCountyOhio.gov/250 to learn more about how you can help shape this historic celebration!
Hamilton County Commissioners
Stephanie Summerow Dumas, Denise Driehaus and Alicia Reece with Clerk of Courts Pavan Parikh. Hamilton County is seeking residents to help plan a celebration for America’s 250th birthday.
Banking Basics: How to Find A Checking Account That’s Right For You
By Amanda Nageleisen and Fifth Third Bank
A checking account lets you pay for most day-to-day transactions and is one of the most important financial tools available. Whether you are new to banking or searching for a new bank, asking the following questions can help you find the best checking account for your financial goals:
1 Is there a monthly fee?
If you don’t want to pay a monthly fee, look for a free checking account, such as Fifth Third Momentum® Checking. You may need to complete a certain number of transactions or maintain a minimum balance each month to avoid fees.
2 Is there a minimum deposit or balance?
Some banks require users to deposit a minimum amount of money to open the account. Some checking accounts also require you to keep a certain amount of money in your account. Understanding an account’s minimum deposit or minimum balance requirements can help you determine the best checking account for your situation.
3 Can I get my paycheck early?
Some checking accounts, such as Fifth Third Momentum® Checking or Fifth Third Express Banking®, allow you to get access to the funds in your paycheck up to two days early. This can help with cash flow needs and provide an opportunity to start earning interest earlier.
4 Is there a banking app or bill pay?
If your checking account has a banking app, you can typically make deposits and other financial transactions directly from your smartphone. With bill pay, you can digitally pay everything from rent to credit card bills. That can make it easier to track your money and make progress toward your financial goals.
5 Can I make mobile deposits?
Mobile deposits mean that you can deposit paper checks into your account without visiting a branch or an ATM. That may be particularly important if the closest branch is not nearby or if it’s hard for you to get to a bank during working hours.
6 What kind of overdraft protection does the checking account offer?
Overdraft protection prevents your checks from bouncing if you make a payment greater than the amount of money in your account. It works by linking your checking account to another account, such as savings, or a credit card. Overdraft protection may require additional fees if you use it, so it’s important to understand the terms of the service offered by each account.
7 What’s the interest rate?
Not all checking accounts offer interest, which is money you can earn based on your account balance. Knowing the current interest rates offered for different accounts may help in comparing them.
Show off your skills Tips and best practices for writing a résumé
By Brooke Whitfield
A résumé is a document that shows potential employers your work experience, education, and skills. It helps you make a good first impression and gives hiring managers the information they need to decide if you might be right for their job.
A great way to start your résumé is to use a template. You can find free templates in Microsoft Word, Google Docs, or on websites like Canva and Indeed. Templates help you organize your information in a way that’s easy to read.
The first part of your résumé needs your basic information and a goal statement. Put your name at the top, followed by your email, phone number, and the city where you live. Then write a short goal statement that tells employers what kind of job you want. For example, you might write “Looking for a fulltime retail job” or “Seeking work as an office assistant.”
Next, list your work history. For each job you’ve had, include:
• The company’s name
• Your job title
• When you started and ended the job
• 2-3 short points about what you did at work
• How many hours you worked each week
• Why you left (if you want to share this)
If you haven’t had a job before, don’t worry! You can include other types of experience like volunteer work, school projects, or activities you helped with. Just make sure to clearly label these as volunteer or school experience, so employers understand.
After work history, add your education and include any school you attended. List the school’s name and what degree or certificate you earned. If you’re still in school, you can write “in progress” or your expected finish date.
Many templates also have space for skills and achievements. The skills section is where you can list things you’re good at, like “team player,” “fast learner,” or “good with computers.” If you’ve won awards or received special recognition, put these in your achievements section.
Remember to keep your résumé neat and easy to read. Check for spelling mistakes. Use the same font throughout, and make sure the spacing is even. Your résumé should be one or two pages longnot more. Ask someone else to proofread your résumé before you send it out. They might catch mistakes you missed or have good suggestions to make it better.
Changing Careers
Kia-Myasha Waldron was looking for a change. She had been at Burger King for a few years but was tired of working in a fastfood restaurant.
“I wanted to try a new environment,” she said. Waldron began working with the job development team at Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries. They helped her write a résumé, including how to organize her work history and what skills to include.
In February, Waldron started a new job as a dishwasher in the cafeteria at UC Health’s main hospital. “I love it so far,” she said. “It’s a different environment, I like the people I work with, and there are more things to do.”
Katie Bibee, supported employment manager at Goodwill, says her team currently works with about 80 clients and customizes support to each person’s’ needs. Some people have a very detailed work history while others recently finished high school or haven’t entered the workforce yet.
“When we’re building a résumé for someone who doesn’t have a work history, we look at what kind of transferable skills they have,” she said.
Nicole Stanford, employment services supervisor, added that Goodwill’s employment specialists also work with clients on interviewing and communication skills, as well as building confidence. “We really hone in on the information they give us and put it together to highlight the positive elements they have,” she said.
Delores Hulbert is currently working with Goodwill to get a job at Kroger. She would like to stock shelves or bag groceries for customers. “I’ve learned how to show up to work on time, and stay on task,” she said. “I’ve been working hard, and I want to find something different.”
Kia-Myasha Waldron recently started a new job in the cafeteria at UC Health’s main hospital.
Delores Hulbert is working with Ohio Valley Goodwill Industries to find a new job in the community.
More Than Merengue
A-Marika Dance Company creates community and inspires confidence
By Lisa Danford, with contributions from Anna Leah Swafford
“Jay, do you want to dance?” asks Maddy Scott. “What’s next?” he replies with a smile. Scott is one of more than 30 people filling a Sharonville dance studio on a snowy February evening.
On Wednesdays, adults with disabilities get together for an hour at A-Marika Dance Company. Owner Mary Ramirez Cook demonstrates the steps for each different style. Then, students and volunteers dance their way around the studio as the music plays.
Samuel Meyers loves to do the swing and tango. Samantha Chacksfield likes rumba. Mathew Cook, Mary’s son, says his favorite is merengue.
Ramirez Cook is passionate about dancing—it’s something she’s been doing since she was 3 years old. After having children, she became a ballroom dance instructor for Fred Astaire Dance Studio and then Arthur Murray Dance Studio.
In 2000, Ramirez Cook decided to venture out on her own and founded A-Marika
Anna Leah Swafford and Tim Jones salsa dance.
Mikel Tempfli and Alyssa Smith dance together.
Mary Ramirez Cook and her son Mathew dance together.
Dance Company. The name, pronounced like America, combines her name, Mary, and Erica, the name of her daughter.
Mathew, her youngest child, was born with Down syndrome and was always at the dance studio with her. “This was a whole new road for me,” she said. “He loved to dance, and it inspired me to start a very small program for young adults with Down syndrome.”
Ramirez Cook said Dancing Stars began with five students. Now they’ve grown to more than 60 people with different disabilities who regularly attend.
Meyers has been coming to A-Marika for 12 years. His mom, Susan, said he loves the class and looks forward to it each week. “It’s
a great social opportunity, and he knows all the dances,” she said. “Mary has a great rapport with the students.”
Alyssa Smith has been attending for two years. “My favorite style is tango,” she said, adding that she likes the freedom to add her own flair. “Don’t be afraid to get creative with the dances! You can do the steps, but you can add your own moves, too.”
Chacksfield has been coming for at least five years and likes how dance class lets her try new things. “People try to tell me what
Maddy Scott and Robert League have a blast dancing together.
Lonnie Smith dances with Caitlin D’Avignon.
Davis Ward dances with A-Marika owner Mary Ramirez Cook.
The merengue is a favorite among dancers at A-Marika.
I can’t do, but I can,” she said. “Disability doesn’t matter.”
Ramirez Cook said she makes a few adaptations to teaching different dances, sometimes simplifying instructions or sharing an alternative step. She also has a modified hula hoop that attaches to wheelchairs so all people can participate.
At every class, other dancers volunteer to share their time and talent for cha cha, waltz, foxtrot and other dances. “It’s so much fun,” said volunteer Amy Meiser. “I love how it’s simple steps and everyone can do it.”
Classes cost $5 and all the proceeds go to the A-Marika Dancing Stars foundation, which helps students offset costs for costumes or entry fees to local dance competitions.
For new students, Ramirez Cook likes to tell parents and caregivers that it’s more than just dance. “It’s about learning appropriate behavior, seeing their peers, and developing friendships,” she said. “It’s a safe zone, where everyone can be happy and carefree.”
A-Marika’s dance class for students with disabilities is 6-6:45 p.m. on Wednesdays.
There is no class on the last Wednesday of each month. Classes cost $5 per person and are held at A-Marika Dance Company, 10831 Sharondale Road.
Visit A-Marika.Weebly.com for details.
The merengue is a favorite among dancers at A-Marika.
Mary Ramirez Cook and her son Mathew demonstrate steps for the next dance.
Credit: Lisa Danford
Amy Meiser and Samantha Chacksfield pause for a photo before dance class begins.
What Inspired Me to Finish My Education
By Michael Ginn
In high school, I was just a few points shy of receiving my diploma. Unfortunately, my guidance counselor told me I wouldn’t amount to anything; that I would either end up dead or in jail, and that I’d never have a job. They essentially closed the book on my future, convincing me that I wasn’t good enough to graduate. Throughout my life, I faced similar negativity. People would say I was too old or question why I would even need my diploma. Over time, I began to believe those messages and lost faith in myself.
My decision to return to school was a back-and-forth process. I made many excuses about why I couldn’t go back. Deep down, I wanted to pursue it, but I just didn't dare to take that first step. One night, while I was working the third shift at Kroger, my fiancée, Amy Hayden, took the initiative to look for GED courses online. Initially, she considered asking me if I wanted to try it, but then she decided not to allow me to make more excuses.
She signed me up for the courses and informed me the next morning. Amy gave me the push I needed and reminded me that the rest was up to me. I started classes with Education Matters in September 2023.
The hardest part was getting started and relearning subjects I hadn’t thought about since leaving high school. My confidence was shaky and questions constantly raced through my mind: Why am I doing this? Can I do this?
However, I had a lot of support and people who were cheering me on. For seven months, I went to class and studied. Math proved to be a significant challenge for me, but I passed all four parts of the test. In May 2024, I finally received my diploma.
I never gave up and I’m so proud of myself for achieving this milestone. It shows that we can achieve our goals regardless of what our past told us. We can still earn that diploma, build a better future, and pursue our dreams without being held back by perceived limitations.
Michael Ginn shows off his general equivalency diploma (GED). At age 45, he went back to school to finish his high school education.
Credit: Amy Hayden
Amy Hayden contributed to this story.
My Voice
Hear from the people in your community!
Each issue of My Life features five people who live in Hamilton County. They share their interests, what issues are important to them, how they improve the community, their proudest accomplishments, and more.
Matthew Brown
Silverton • 43 years old
our editorial team about sharing your voice!
Leah Alexander
Oakley • 58 years old
I’m proud of the book I recently published with my sister, Lynne. It’s called Skin Deep: Life Stories in Tattoo Ink. My nephew Alexander Calloway inspired the book. He’s got a penguin tattoo on his forearm. We have nine people with stories and pictures in the book—some of them have two tattoos, some of them have more. We would like to make a second copy that has more stories behind people’s tattoos.
I’m working on becoming a more well-rounded advocate. I’ve been going to various community events because I like to learn about different topics. I’m part of Disability Advocacy Network with my friends, Mike and Dakotah. With how things are trending, we have a really good shot at getting more young people with disabilities involved. My goal is to give the disability system to the next generation in a better place than it was when we got the system ourselves.
Mason • 45 years old Kara Ayers
David Isaacs
White Oak • 63 years old
I am always looking for ways to lend a helping hand and be involved in my community. I’m part of Knights of Columbus, the VFW, senior meetings at St. James Church, and a group of other individuals like me. We have a group where we meet often for outings and on Zoom. We like to help each other a lot and just have fun.
Empowering people to speak up for themselves and understand policies that affect them is important to me. When people learn how to voice their concerns and figure things out together, the sky is the limit! This leads to stronger, more responsive communities where everyone's needs are heard. By building these skills, we create a society where people feel confident tackling local problems, shaping their futures, and sparking real, lasting change.
Kelly Nutter
Colerain Township • 56 years old
My podcast is called “Scoops with Kelly.” It’s on the Collective Visions YouTube channel. I’ve wanted to do a podcast for a long time, and I’ve been starting to get more into it. I came up with the name because I saw ice cream and that just got me thinking. I like talking to people. I try to get interviews when I’m out in the community, like at Torchy’s Tacos and The Healing Center.
questions 5
with Nate Turner, DODD Podcast host and Outreach & Education Coordinator
Why did you take on this role?
I joined the Ohio Department of DD in November 2022, with a focus on elevating the voices of people living with disabilities and engaging our vast community of allies. I am the first person utilizing waiver services who is working full-time on the policy team, so I bring a unique perspective to the podcast. I saw this as a great opportunity to highlight compelling stories from people living with disabilities, their allies, and my colleagues at DODD.
How does it feel to see the podcast grow?
Seeing the podcast grow is incredible, with a recent podcast reaching over 2,000 listeners! I love connecting with people and sharing their stories. I believe this interest is driven by the need to share information and resources, and the podcast offers a unique way to connect and engage with people.
What is one of your most memorable interviews and why?
One of my most memorable interviews was with my friend Renee Wood. We had a wideranging conversation about the importance of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA). Renee shared her personal experiences, highlighting the intricacies faced by adults with disabilities as they transition to independent living away from their families. Our longstanding friendship made the conversation incredibly rich, offering listeners an opportunity to hear two people with
disabilities authentically discuss navigating life with disability.
What other podcasts do you like to listen to?
I regularly enjoy listening to podcasts within the disability space. "Ohio DD Talks" comes to mind, as well as a BBC podcast on disability and mental health, which provides a global perspective. Outside of disability-focused content, I love listening to current events podcasts like NPR One and technology podcasts such as WVFRM.
Who are some of your role models?
My role models include Ed Roberts and Judy Heumann for their groundbreaking disability advocacy. My friend Renee Wood always reminds me to speak truth to power. Additionally, my amazing family and girlfriend Kelsi have been a tremendous source of support and motivation, and I would not have been successful without their love and encouragement.
You can listen to the DODD Podcast on Apple, Spotify, YouTube and DODD.Ohio.gov.
Express Yourself: Cincinnati’s Creative Scene
By Sarah Phillips
It’s truly a wonderful feeling to be able to express oneself and get involved in the rich culture around you. After all, the fine arts are a central part of modern society and provide memorable experiences for many people. Here is a short list of accessible options in and around the Cincinnati area that everyone can enjoy:
Theater programs &
performances
■ Marjorie Book Continuing Education offers a wide range of theatrical productions that are accessible to those with and without disabilities. The organization includes actors and behindthe-scenes crew options for all.
■ Ensemble Theatre Cincinnati and Playhouse in the Park offer a variety of accessible performances throughout their season. These include ASLinterpreted, audio-described, or sensoryfriendly performances, as well as large print or braille programs.
Visual Arts
■ The Cincinnati Art Museum frequently hosts accessible classes and workshops, empowering people with disabilities
to find their creative side. Other accessible experiences include touch tours and audiodescribed tours.
■ The Taft Museum of Art hosts sensory explorations on the second Sunday of each month. This encourages visitors to use touch, hearing, and other senses to experience the museum’s collection.
■ Cincinnati’s Contemporary Arts Center also offers ASL interpretation for public programs, audio-described tours, largeprint text, and sensory bags.
Music Performances
■ Did you know Cincinnati’s Music Hall has a wide range of accessible performances? The Cincinnati Symphony Orchestra offers relaxed performances and ASL interpretation. The Cincinnati Opera hosts audio-described performances and can provide large-print or Braille programs.
■ Music lovers can also find unique opportunities with the Ken Anderson Alliance, which offers both group and individual music therapy sessions, classes about podcasting and more.
To find accessible arts experiences, visit CincyAE.com and use the advanced search. You can select different accessibility needs such as closed captioning, sign language, wheelchair access, and more.
Marjorie Book Continuing Education offers a wide range of theatrical productions for people with and without disabilities.
Credit: Marjorie Book
May We Help found a creative solution to help people roller skate during a recent party at The Place. They used PVC pipe, wheels, and other materials to create four adult-size skating aids that help people with balance. “People loved the skating aids,” said HCDDS Community Navigator Ann Myres. “Many people were sharing them throughout the party. This made it possible for everyone who wanted to skate to be able to try it.”
The Over-The-Rhine International Film Festival, organized by LADD, featured three days of lively discussions, film screenings and one-of-a-kind events. Produced every other year, the festival celebrates films that tell stories about communities whose voices are marginalized in the world. Its mission is to create a sense of shared humanity through stories, conversations and action.
HCDDS and its partners celebrated Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month on March 4 with two different events. In the morning, people came together to learn about advocacy and watch a live stream of DD Awareness and Advocacy Day at the Ohio Statehouse. That evening, HCDDS and the Bridge Adaptive co-hosted a screening of Wampler’s Ascent, which documents Steve Wampler’s attempt to become the first person with a disability to climb El Capitan in Yosemite National Park.
Credit: Leigh Taylor Photography
Credit: May We Help and Ann Myres
Guy in yellow hat: May We Help
Skater: Ann Myres
Credit: HCDDS
Things to Do
July marks the 35th anniversary of the ADA
Cincinnati is once again celebrating Disability Pride Month in July! Plans include raising the Disability Pride flag at City Hall, a community celebration to mark the 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act, and other events. Disability Pride Month is an opportunity to honor the culture, resilience, achievements, and experiences of the disability community. Stay tuned for details on local events at DisabilityPrideCincy.org.
Be part of Flying Pig Marathon weekend
PigAbilities is set for Saturday, May 3! The onemile course gives people of all abilities a chance to walk, run, or roll across the official Flying Pig Finish Swine. Registered participants get a swag bag and medal for completing PigAbilities. Leading up to the race, you can join the PigAbilities Meetups every Sunday from 2-3 p.m. Learn more and register for PigAbilities at FlyingPigMarathon.com.
Find more events at HamiltonDDSOhio.gov/calendar
Word Search: Disability Pride
Instructions: Find these words related to disability rights. See the answers at HamiltonDDSOhio.gov/magazine
Respect
Mobility
Access
Community
Accommodation
Empowerment
Rights
Equality
Advocacy
Policy
Audio version available now, thanks to CABVI’s Radio Reading Services!
My Life is a publication of Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS).
Our magazine empowers people with independent life skills, shares success stories, and promotes opportunities for advocacy and making connections. It’s created by and for people with developmental disabilities.
