My Life - Fall 2024

MY L IFE

Be A Leader

Safe from Scams

Find out what skills it takes to be a leader in your community

Discover practical tips for protecting yourself from online scams

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Page 14

Seeking Health Equity Freeman Center is closing health care gap for adults with developmental disabilities Page 11

Issue No. 12

Fall 2024

Health Care Access for All The Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities celebrates growth in person-centered health care and plans to open a new location in 2025.

“Having a place where medical resources and behavioral health resources are under one roof, I think makes a huge difference."

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My Life Editorial Team Ryan Braun

Director of Community Relations

Lisa Danford

Community Relations Coordinator

Anna Leah Swafford, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn

Writers & Contributors Anna Leah Swafford, Ryan Braun, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn, Lisa Danford, Sarah Phillips, Jennie Flowers, Kelley Tekeste, Bree Moss, Ann Myres, Meridith Stutz, Christy Gregg, Annie DeGrood, Amber Smith Have a question, comment or story idea? Email magazine@hamiltondds.org or call (513) 794-3300 2

Contents 7

Expand Your Circle

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Having a strong social circle is key to combating isolation and loneliness.

Discover ways to meet new people who share your interests and step outside of your comfort zone.

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Leading the Way What qualities make a good leader?

And how can you gain and practice skills for a leadership role? Selfadvocates from Project CARE share their advice and suggestions to gain experience.

Stay alert to protect yourself from potential scams Each year, people of all ages are victims of online or phone scams. Learn about warning signs and get practical tips to keep yourself and your personal information safe.

In Every Issue News & Notes

Pages 4-6

Leia’s Letter News: Exceptional advocacy, cast your vote, accessible trails, and more

My Voice

Pages 14-16

Meet Five Local Advocates 5 Questions Cincinnati Zoo Director Thayne Maynard

My Life:

Pages 17-19

Access for All Program In Focus Upcoming Events 3

Welcome to the fall 2024 issue! I’m excited to share some wonderful stories as we celebrate three years of My Life.

Our cover story looks at the Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities, which is working hard to promote heath equity.

Our article explores their passion for making health care more accessible.

Another way to improve your well-being is by growing your social circle. Community Navigator Ann Myres shares ideas for meeting new people and making new friends.

But sometimes scammers will claim to be your “friend” so they can ask for personal information. Our story has easy tips for recognizing and avoiding scams to keep yourself and your information safe.

We also explore the topic of developing leadership qualities. No matter your background, everyone has the potential to be a leader. Our partners at Project CARE offer advice help you build leadership and advocacy skills.

Leia’s Letter

If you’re looking for outdoor fun in the crisp autumn air, don’t miss our article about the Cincinnati Zoo’s Access for All program, which makes the zoo more inclusive and enjoyable for everyone. To prepare you for your visit, read our 5 Questions Interview with Thayne Maynard, Director of the Cincinnati Zoo. Thayne shares stories about his inspirations, how he started working at the zoo, and his favorite animal.

Also, as we enter our fourth year, we’re making a small change to publishing My Life two times a year. Look for our next magazine in Spring 2025. We’re incredibly grateful for all the support throughout the years.

Happy reading and enjoy this issue!

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News & Notes

Recognizing exceptional community advocacy Congratulations to Amy Hayden and Sean Vicente, the winners of this year’s John Romer Advocacy Award! Miara Miles and Courtney Meatchem received honorable mentions.

The award recognizes people whose advocacy work on behalf of themselves and others has made a significant impact on their community.

Advocate: Amy Hayden Amy Hayden is an active advocate and community volunteer with Project CARE, Neighbors in Action, Visionaries + Voices, and more. She makes sure the voices of people with disabilities in our community are heard and they have opportunities to share what is important in their lives.

One judge said Hayden “shows hard work, dedication and determination to empowering others.”

Professional: Sean Vicente Sean Vicente works in the Hamilton County Public Defender’s Office. In his role, he has been a selfless and compassionate advocate for people with disabilities who become involved with the criminal justice system. “Sean’s advocacy is unsurpassed and has resulted in countless positive outcomes,” said his nomination.

Amy Hayden and Sean Vicente are the winners of the 2024 John Romer Advocacy Award.

They were honored at the Sept.

10 HCDDS Board meeting.

Honorable Mention: Miara Miles and Courtney Meatchem •

While facing her own challenges, Miara Miles remained passionate about helping others. She created a patient advocacy and peer support program at Cincinnati Children’s and frequently speaks at events to promote inclusion for people with disabilities.

•

Courtney Meatchem is a provider who shows dedication to families. Her support allowed a young man with autism to make progress toward independence.

Meatchem also started Premium Personal Care to continue making an impact.

Miara Miles and Courtney Meatchem received honorable mentions for their advocacy work in the community.

Share Your Feedback Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services (HCDDS) is beginning work on its 2025-2027 Strategic Plan. The Strategic Plan guides the agency’s priorities over the next three years. You can make your voice heard and be part of the planning process by taking a short survey or signing up for a focus group.

Learn more by scanning the QR code or visiting HamiltonDDS.org/survey.

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Make your voice heard on Election Day! Voting is an important way you can take part in your community. It allows you to be independent while making choices that concern your life.

Election Day is Tuesday, Nov. 5. This year, voters will choose a president, representatives for Congress, and local leaders. Many communities also have different issues on the ballot.

Hamilton County has several accessible voting options for people with disabilities. These include: voting by mail, curbside voting, a remote ballot marking system, and voting machines with audio ballots or large text.

Voting Checklist •

You can vote if you are registered and at least 18 years old by Election Day. The last day to register to vote is Monday, Oct. 7.

•

You can ask your guardian, friend or family member to support you when you vote, either at the polls or at home.

•

If you vote in person, you must have a valid photo ID. This is a new law passed in 2023. Bank statements, utility bills or other documents are no longer valid forms of identification.

•

If transportation is difficult, you can vote at home using an absentee ballot. You can then mail your ballot back to the Board of Elections or drop it off in person.

Visit VoteHamiltonCountyOhio.gov for the latest information about in this election. You can also contact Advocacy Support Advisor Diana Mairose with questions, diana.mairose@hamiltondds.org.

The Access Station is available to voters who may have difficulty marking a paper ballot with a pen.

Credit: Hamilton County Board of Elections

The Board of Elections has a secure drop box for voters to return absentee ballots.

Credit: Ryan Braun

Hit the trails this fall Do you like going outside and exercising? Fall is a perfect time to explore! Trail Link is a website that has a list of wheelchair accessible trails in Ohio with descriptions, maps, photos, and reviews. Accessible trails around Cincinnati include: •

Otto Armleder Park, 5057 Wooster Pike. This trail winds around the park near the Little Miami River and connects to Lunken Airport.

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The Newport Southbank Bridge, more commonly known as the Purple People Bridge, connects Cincinnati to Newport. Access it from Sawyer Point or Newport on the Levee.

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Shaker Trace Trail at Miami Whitewater Forest, 9001 Mt. Hope Road, is eight miles of paved trails through wetlands, prairies, and farmland.

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Mill Creek Greenway is an urban trail near Northside. Access it from Salway Street.

Visit TrailLink.com for an interactive map of Ohio’s wheelchair accessible trails.

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Features

How to grow your social circle and make new connections

By Ann Myres Are you interested in meeting other people and making friends, but you don’t know where to start? Don’t worry! A lot of people feel like this.

“Our relationships are a source of healing and well-being hiding in plain sight – one that can help us live healthier, more fulfilled, and more productive lives,” said U.S. Surgeon General Dr. Vivek Murthy. “We must prioritize building social connection the same way we have prioritized other critical public health issues.”

Making connections

Walking groups like PigAbilities Meetups are a good way to meet new people.

Photo Credit: HCDDS To grow your social circle, first think about what you like. Then, think about where people who like those same things gather.

For example, if you like art, you could look up community art classes or groups. In Hamilton County, there are many places where people gather to make art. Urban Sketchers Cincinnati is one group that meets weekly to draw at different locations.

If you try one place and you feel it is not a good fit, don’t give up! Keep exploring other places that match your interests. You will eventually find somewhere you feel welcome and can connect with others.

If you’re having a hard time identifying what you are interested in, you are not alone!

Many people are unsure what they like. If this is the case, then you should try a variety of social groups and events to discover your interests.

You can start by researching local groups at recreation centers, libraries, Meetup.com, or community volunteer opportunities. If transportation is a barrier, there are plenty of virtual options to connect with others!

Connecting with others

Volunteering is another way to meet new people. HCDDS regularly hosts volunteer days at local organizations like Matthew 25 Ministries.

Showing up is the first step to making new connections.

It is also very important to build your social skills. You might need to step outside of your comfort zone, but don’t worry, many other people are probably feeling nervous, too!

Remember that relationships are reciprocal—you can talk about yourself but also ask questions about the other person. It is important to listen and to share information.

Friendships take time, so don’t get discouraged. Keep showing up! After a few times, you will start to get to know people, and they will also get to know you.

HCDDS Community Navigators can help you find interest groups and make social connections. Reach out to Ann Myres at (513) 703-2138 or ann.myres@hamiltondds.org.

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Leading the Way: How to Develop Your Leadership Skills​

By Molly Lyons At Project CARE, we deeply value the inclusion of individuals with disabilities in every facet of our work. Our Self-Advocates are the heart and soul of our program, and we are committed to fostering growth. This includes helping people grow as leaders in their communities to reduce the stigma surrounding disabilities and advance the fight against discrimination.

Self-Advocates resoundingly said good leaders should have effective communication skills. One person said a leader should be dependable, resourceful, and nimble in dealing with any situation or challenge. Leaders should also be caring, empathetic, open-minded, practice cultural humility, and be eager to support others.

“Being a leader is doing the right thing when no one is watching. It's about understanding that no one is perfect, there is always room for improvement,” one of the self-advocates said.

How can you build your leadership skills?

Our team suggests you observe others and participate in new environments. “You can watch people who are in or have been in leadership roles and made a positive impact on their environments or organizations,” said one Self-Advocate.

Building leadership skills takes time. As you work on these skills it’s important to remember all things take practice. You should also be receptive to feedback from your support team and people helping you stay on track.

For anyone who wants to advance into a leadership role, advocates suggested: • Be ready and willing to take the next steps – you could be paving the way for others • Empower your creative side • Get comfortable with gaining new experiences • Have confidence and learn how to be respectfully assertive • Practice self-care to stay grounded, which helps you make thoughtful decisions Taking on a leadership role can be a major responsibility, but it can be rewarding work. People need someone to look to who offers hope and guidance through difficult times. As a leader, you may also experience a sense of accomplishment or purpose.

Project CARE Self-Advocates encourage you to challenge yourself in preparing to move into leadership roles. As you build your skills, you’ll be empowered by influencing change from an underrepresented perspective!

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Several advocates from Hamilton County recently participated in Project STIR, a three-day training to learn about advocacy and connect to others. Anna Leah Swafford said she learned about self-determination and helpful tips to advocate for herself. Amy Hayden learned new tools to “become a better advocate, have even more of a voice, and be a better leader.” Michael Ginn added that the training was a wonderful experience and he made new friends.

Features

Jill Gibboney, chair of the Cincinnati Accessibility Board of Advisors, speaks at the Disability Pride flag raising at City Hall.

Katy Riede and SSA Yoko Nomura at last year’s Neighbors in Action Advocacy Summit.

Where can you gain experience or have an opportunity to be a leader?

Sarah Phillips recently completed the Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and related Disabilities (LEND) program, which helps young professionals and advocates to further their knowledge and skills within the medical field. “I have been incredibly fortunate to meet so many wonderful folks, all of whom are united in the mission of empowering the disabled community to lead the lives they desire,” she said. “LEND gives me the chance to inch closer to the kind of patient advocacy I’ve been imagining for quite some time.”

HCDDS recently hosted an advocacy session focused on speaking up for yourself and others.

Pictured, left to right, are Dakotah Whitley (standing), Michael Denlinger, Michael Ginn, Matthew Brown, Amy Hayden, Diana Mairose, Yoko Nomura, Amber Cowart, and Robert Shuemak.

Photo Credits: UC UCEDD, HCDDS, Provided

▶ Project CARE provides opportunities for people with disabilities to receive a stipend reimbursement while becoming peer support leaders. SelfAdvocates have ongoing training that significantly enhances community integration, diminishes isolation, and lowers the risk of victimization. Email projectcare@ywcacin.org to learn more. ▶ Neighbors in Action is an independent advocacy group for people with disabilities in Hamilton County. Members meet regularly to discuss important advocacy topics and plan connection opportunities.

Email amber.cowart@hamiltondds.org to learn more. ▶ Visionaries + Voices (V+V) provides creative, professional, and educational opportunities for artists with disabilities. Artists working at V+V actively contribute to the greater arts community through creative, educational, and strategic partnerships. Learn more at VisionariesAndVoices.com. ▶ You could also try local organizations that match your interests, neighborhood community councils, or places of worship.

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Features

Smart strategies to protect yourself from scams

By Jennie Flowers and Kelley Tekeste Many people have fallen The internet is a valuable for scams, either through tool most of us use every phone calls or online, and it’s day. We can search for important to stay alert. You information, keep in touch can protect yourself from with family and friends, or being taken advantage of work, shop, and play. As by following these safety with all technology, there tips: are risks involved.

• Trust your gut - If It’s important for people something makes you of all ages and abilities to uncomfortable, it is okay to know how to use internethang up, disconnect, or not connected devices in a respond. safe and appropriate way.

This can minimize risks • A friend is someone to ensure people are not you spend time with and putting themselves or can trust. Not everyone is others in danger.

Michael Ginn checks his text your friend. Friends will messages. Technology can Whether you are not usually ask for your make it easier for people to communicating by phone, personal information like fall victim to scams, whether text, email, or online, it is it’s email, phone calls, text account passwords or bank messages or social networks. important to remember account numbers.

Photo Credit: Amy Hayden that we are all vulnerable • If it sounds too good to be to potential scams. Michael true, it probably is. You will Ginn recalls two times people tried to scam never be asked to give money or your him. bank account information if you have “I answered the phone, and they said my won a prize.

Social Security number was suspended. If I wanted it back, I would have to send them • Never tell a stranger or someone money,” he said. “I know that you don’t lose you just met online where you live or your Social Security number like that.” where you work.

Another time, someone called and told • If you don’t recognize a phone number, Ginn they were from the Internal Revenue let it go to voicemail. You can always Service (IRS) and he was going to be audited. call the person back if it is safe.

“They said if I did not send gift cards from Walmart to the IRS, they would send the • It is OK to say no. If someone makes you feel uncomfortable, you can unpolice with a warrant for my arrest,” he said. friend, unfollow or block them.

“The gift cards tipped me off because you don’t pay the IRS with that.”

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Cover Story

Seeking Health Equity UC Health Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities celebrates growth and equity in providing care for adults with disabilities

By Meredith Stutz and UC Health When Kathleen Sheil walks into the Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities off Burnet Avenue, she’s greeted by the smiling faces of staff and the radiance of the artwork on the walls.

In the exam room, Dr. Lauren Wang, the Medical Director at Timothy Freeman, MD, Center enters with a warm smile. She shares a laugh with Sheil when an ear check is ticklish. You could sense their ease with each other.

“Dr. Wang is an amazing person,” Sheil said. “She really is. And she really cares about each and every one of her patients.”

Sheil is 43 years old and has Down syndrome.

She loves her job, family, soccer, and hanging out with friends. For

Center Director Dr. Lauren Wang with two of her patients, Kathleen Sheil and Blair Baker.

years, she and her family have trusted UC Health with her primary care.

The Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities was founded in 2022. It’s named after the late Dr. Timothy Freeman, a pioneer who spent more than 30 years focusing on care for adults with disabilities. The center provides interdisciplinary care for adults with disabilities starting at age 18.

“This is where the joy of your heart meets what the world needs,” said Dr. Wang, explaining her passion for working with adults with disabilities.

“This huge,

Jessieon O'Neal takes a patient’s blood pressure.

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underserved population of adults is transitioning from the pediatric system into adulthood without the same resources and services in the adult system. That was what lit my fire to go into this work.”

The Freeman Center's mission is to advance healthcare for adults with developmental disabilities by providing person-centered, coordinated, and interdisciplinary care, educating health professionals, and partnering with the community.

Their connections to different medical specialties are what set the Freeman Center apart from other practices.

“If you see a patient with Down syndrome, they might also need a pulmonologist to help with their sleep apnea, or an ENT to help with recurrent ear infections. We have those resources in an academic health system,” Dr. Wang said. “The other really important thing is continuity of care. If a patient's admitted to the hospital and we have that communication and collaboration, then it's a seamless experience for the patient.”

Catriona Shaughnessy listens to a patient’s lungs with a stethoscope.

Dr. Corey Keeton is another UC Health physician providing care at the Freeman Center. He’s also an assistant professor in the departments of Psychiatry and Behavioral Neuroscience, and Family and Community Medicine at the University of Cincinnati.

“Having a place where medical resources and behavioral health resources are under one roof, I think makes a huge difference,” Dr. Keeton said. “It not only makes a difference for the patients, but also can make a big difference for families and caregivers.”

Blair Baker is another patient who works with Dr. Keeton and Dr. Wang.

Baker, 40, has cerebral palsy and scoliosis and is nonverbal. He uses a wheelchair and communicates with his eyes.

His mother, Linette Johnson, is Baker’s main support and said the Freeman Center has made a world of difference. “He’s more smiley now, and he feels more connected,” Linette said of how she’s noticed a physical and emotional change in her son. “The Freeman Center can relate. When you have a doctor that can communicate and relate to the heart issues of a mother for an adult child who is not understood in the community, it's awesome.”

Olivia Peace talks to a patient about their medical history.

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Dr. Aurora Rivendale and Dr. Corey Keeton are the psychiatry leads at the Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities.

Dr. Wang takes pride in the “village” she has helped to cultivate with her staff at the Freeman Center. She said she is focused on health equity and helping people of all abilities have access to the personalized healthcare they need to lead healthy lives.

“We're the welcoming access point here to all the other things that UC Health has

to offer,” Dr. Wang said. “How do we break down the barriers and make our system a more welcoming place?”

The Timothy Freeman, MD, Center for Developmental Disabilities is set to expand to an off-site, intentionally designed location on Victory Parkway in early 2025.

Photo Credits: UC Health

The Freeman Center did a community needs assessment to see what adults with developmental disabilities want in health care. The feedback helped to guide the work and development of the center. The focus is on primary care and behavioral health, and they also offer: • • • • • •

Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Dietary support Clinical pharmacist Mental Health Therapy Social work Behavioral Support

• • • • •

Nurse Care Coordination Condition-specific health consultations Healthcare transition planning Community Navigation In-person and virtual healthcare visits

To get connected or learn more, visit: FreemanCenter.org 13

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.

Con editorialtact our sharing team about your v magazine @hamilt oice! ondds.or

g

Jassmen Moran Colerain Township • 28 years old During the summer, I volunteer on weekdays to help people at Taylor’s Pointe Nursing Home.

I visit and do arts and crafts with them, like coloring or making string ladder bracelets. I also like talking to the residents and playing bingo with them. It feels so good to help people. When I am not volunteering, I like going to Dave & Buster’s because it’s fun to play games there.

Sydney Gibson Silverton • 29 years old An issue that is important to me is having more accessibility for people with disabilities. We should have the same opportunities as people without disabilities to access information, services, products and environments. As the newest member of LADD’s Empowerment Committee, I am now able to join the voices of others with disabilities to advocate for accessibility. My family inspires me because they show me that even though I have a disability, nothing can stop me from doing the things I want to do.

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My Voice

Steven Anderson North Bend • 36 years old I am passionate about human rights. They are very important to me. Everyone deserves to be treated right, regardless of who they are. I also advocate for disability rights and gay rights. I stay active by speaking out and teaching others to be respectful and not hurt people with labels. My biggest accomplishment is being a finalist for the 2024 Upstander Awards, and my inspiration is my friend Werner Coppel, a Holocaust survivor.

He encouraged me to speak out about injustices like the Holocaust, so it would never be forgotten.

Dana Perry North College Hill • 45 years old I took a comedy class at Newport on the Levee, and it was so much fun. I always love to make people laugh because I can be so goofy. When I did my performance, everybody in the audience laughed ,and they thought it was great. It was one of the most enjoyable times of my life. I feel that, especially today, we all need to be able to laugh at ourselves and have a sense of humor about things.

Dylan Feltner Bridgetown • 26 years old I’m really into '80s rock & roll and metal. I love to listen to “Hear ‘n Aid”, a charity album from the '80s that included more than 40 heavy metal musicians and raised money for famine relief.

I also like to watch professional wrestling. My favorite wrestlers are Sting, Bray Wyatt, Brian Danielson, Cody Rhodes, and Chris Jericho. My role models are my friends and my family.

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5

questions with Thayne Maynard, director of the Cincinnati Zoo and Botanical Garden

How did you get into this field?

I grew up in Florida and there was no air conditioning. As kids we spent our summers down by a lake or a river. We would catch turtles, lizards and snakes—our prize was if we could catch a baby alligator. That led me to studying biology and getting my master’s degree in wildlife biology. And almost by chance, I ended up working at the zoo. It was just the right place at the right time.

What is your favorite animal and why?

Without a doubt, my favorite animal is everybody’s favorite animal: Fiona the hippo. Her impact has been so remarkable.

Fiona was born prematurely, and now she’s 2,700 pounds. I’ve always wondered, year by year, will people still be interested in Fiona? But you go down there on any day, and there will be people from out of town who came just to see Fiona. It’s crazy.

Who is your inspiration and why?

Jane Goodall is the most beloved and the most respected person in the history of wildlife conservation, and she's still at it. I was very fortunate to help write a book with her 16

called, Hope for Animals and Their World.

Her mission in the latter part of her career is to try to instill more hope in people.

Where is the most unique place you’ve visited?

My favorite place to go is on safari in Africa, whether that’s in Kenya, Tanzania, Botswana or South Africa. One of the most remote places I’ve ever been is the deep rainforests in the Republic of Congo. The zoo is very involved in the Nouabalé-Ndoki National Park, and we partner with researchers there who are protecting the forests and the big apes that live there. The wildest place I’ve been was in Suriname in northern South America to work with field biologists who are studying eight species of primates.

What is your favorite part of your job?

I'm lucky to be in the perfect job for someone like me—I’m an animal person and a biologist, but I'm also a people person. Our purpose is to tell the story for wildlife. We’re fortunate that people really embrace the Cincinnati Zoo. It’s very heartening because when I’m out in the community, I’ll run into people who tell me how much the zoo means to them.

See the extended interview at HamiltonDDS.org/magazine.

Credit: Provided

My Life

Cincinnati Zoo focuses on inclusion

By Annie DeGrood The Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden is committed to making sure that everyone can enjoy nature and wildlife, without barriers. The Access for All program provides a variety of tools to make sure people of all abilities and their families can enjoy the zoo.

In addition to adult changing tables and sensory-friendly restrooms, Access for All includes: • Two calming rooms for guests who need a private space away from the crowds, plus additional calming spaces throughout the zoo •

Save the dates for some of the Cincinnati Zoo & Botanical Garden’s most popular events!

Sensory bags with noise-reducing headphones, bendy fidget toys, sunglasses, and other portable tools. These are available for check-out at the Welcome Center.

▶ Celebrate HallZOOween during weekends in October. Guests can come in costumes and trick-ortreat at stops throughout the zoo. It also includes illusion shows and special animal enrichment. ▶ PNC Festival of Lights is a holiday tradition that begins Nov. 21 and runs through Jan. 5.

One of Cincinnati’s most amazing holiday light displays, it includes more than 4 million lights and more than 20 different animal lanterns.

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Access pass for rides and attractions for guests who have difficulty or are unable to wait in a traditional line

•

Sensory Map that identifies areas that are crowded, smelly, dark, interactive or loud.

•

ADA-accessible components of the Kanga’ Klimb ropes course

•

Social narratives and visual support maps for visiting the zoo and different animal habitats

Many Zoo employees also received training to better engage with guests who have disabilities.

These employees can be identified by the blue strips on their employee badges.

Learn more about Access for All on their website, CincinnatiZoo.org, under “Plan Your Adventure.”

A calming room offers a quiet space for Cincinnati Zoo guests to take a break.

A sensory map shows loud, smelly, dark, crowded and interactive locations throughout the zoo.

HallZOOween begins on Oct. 12.

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On July 7, hundreds of people joined Envision and the Cincinnati Reds for Abilities at Bat. This yearly event highlights and celebrates people with disabilities in our community while building awareness of disability services. Participants enjoyed an on-field parade, special recognition, a ceremonial first pitch, giveaways and more.

Credit: Envision

For the first time ever, the Disability Pride flag was flying over City Hall this July. Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services, City of Cincinnati leaders, LADD, and many other organizations came together for a historic day celebrating the disability community.

It was inspiring to see so many people attend the kick-off for Disability Pride Cincy and show why inclusion and accessibility matter for everyone!

Credit: HCDDS

This summer, the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame celebrated 2024 inductees Randy Crawford, Shirley Murdock, Donald Lawrence, and Roger Troutman & Zapp.

Founded by Hamilton County Commissioner Alicia Reece, the Cincinnati Black Music Walk of Fame includes interactive attractions along West Mehring Way celebrating the legacy of local musicians.

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My Life

Calendar Gold Over America Disability Town Hall Oct. 1. LADD Training Center.

Join LADD’s Empowerment Committee for a conversation about disability issues with elected officials at the Victory Parkway campus. A virtual live stream is also available.

LADDinc.org

Pumpkin Festival Oct. 11-13. Hamilton.

Celebrate the season in style with food, crafts, entertainment, and more. See some of the biggest pumpkins in the Tri-State and watch live carving demonstrations.

Nov. 2. Heritage Bank Center.

A celebration of world-class gymnastics designed to inspire the next generation of champions. This year’s tour features Olympic goldmedalist Simone Biles.

HeritageBankCenter.com

Jazzed About Art Nov. 8. Woodward Theater.

An annual event benefiting Art Beyond Boundaries. Enjoy an evening with visual and musical artists showcasing their creative collaborations. Tickets include cocktail hour, a catered dinner, and more.

WoodwardTheater.com

Operation-Pumpkin.org

Cincinnati Comic Expo Oct. 18-20. Sharonville Convention Center.

A festival of fandom that celebrates comic books, pop culture, gaming, and more. Meet celebrities, entertainers, and connect with other fans.

CincinnatiComicExpo.com

Market Bleu Oct. 19. Contemporary Arts Center.

A quarterly night market that showcases elevated handmade products and fine arts from across our region. Free to attend.

Holiday O.F.F. Market Nov. 23. Summit Park.

Shop early for the holidays at Summit Park. This event brings together small businesses, artisans, brewers, bakers, farmers and more.

TheOFFmarket.org

Holiday Pops Dec. 13-15. Music Hall.

Create holiday memories with the Cincinnati Pops. Choruses and dancers from around the city bring festive favorites and holiday classics to life.

CincinnatiSymphony.org

MarketBleu.com

The Dent Schoolhouse Now until Nov. 2. Dent.

Advocacy 101 Jan. 28. Sharonville.

A former public school transforms into a haunted attraction each fall.

Special events include a “lights on” tour and weekly ghost tours.

Join We Thrive Together for an inperson advocacy workshop. Learn about tools and resources to build your personal advocacy skills, support network, and more.

DentSchoolhouse.com

WeThriveTogether.org 15 19

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.