My Life Winter 2024

MY L I FFE E

Winter Blues

Game On

Learn about Seasonal Affective Disorder and how to get help

Video game systems put an emphasis on accessibility for all

Page 7

Page 8

Business Boom Entrepreneurs with disabilities follow passions to profits Page 10

Issue No. 9

Winter 2024

Small Business Success Stories From pet bandanas and paintings to mini cheesecakes and greeting cards, four entrepreneurs with disabilities are making their mark in the community.

Morgan Godfrey, Aaron Strait, Maggie Neumann, and Jakob Sidney have all followed their dreams to start their own businesses. Each entrepreneur has a loyal fan base inspired by their creativity.

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My Life Editorial Team Ryan Braun

Director of Community Relations

Lisa Danford

Community Relations Coordinator

James Harley, Anna Leah Swafford, Amy Hayden, Michael Ginn

Writers & Contributors Michael Ginn, Amy Hayden, Lauren Jones, James Harley, Anna Leah Swafford, Ryan Braun, Lisa Danford, Anna Hall, Krissy Vinson, Courtney Combs-Mock

Have a question, comment or story idea? Email magazine@hamiltondds.org or call (513) 794-3300 2

Contents 7

Mental Health Matters Many people feel sad as the seasons change. But how do you know if it's more than just winter blues? Learn about Seasonal Affective Disorder, the symptoms, and how to get treatment.

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Adaptive Video Gaming Video games are an increasingly popular way to relieve stress, have fun and make connections. The good news is that developers recently leveled up their accessibility options for all players.

Job Coaches Offer Strategies for Success Some people might need on-the-job support to thrive in community employment. A job coach or other specialist can help you develop skills and solve problems. "We help our clients learn on their own to progress and excel at work."

In Every Issue News & Notes

Pages 4-6

Leia’s Letter News: Winter sports, travel tips, be a leader, connection opportunity

My Voice

Pages 14-16

Meet Five Local Advocates 5 Questions Ohio DODD Director Kim Hauck

My Life

Pages 17-19

Tips to Build Healthy Habits NEW! In Focus Upcoming Events 3

Welcome to the winter issue of My Life magazine!

Although it's cold outside, I hope our collection of articles will warm your spirits and inspire you during these short winter days.

Our cover story celebrates the passion and determination of local entrepreneurs pursuing their dreams. Aaron, Maggie, Jakob, and Morgan are creating and selling art, sweet treats, and stylish accessories. Their stories are a testament to what is possible when we pursue our passions.

Maybe you're not ready to start a business, but you have been thinking about working. If so, check out our story about job coaches. A job coach can support people with disabilities and share strategies for employment success. This can make it easier for you to land a job you love.

Outside of work or school, many of our readers are avid gamers. James Harley explores adaptive games in his feature article. You'll learn more about new and inclusive options that ensure everyone can play video games.

Leia’s Letter

The season's shorter days can also bring on Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), which is more than just "winter blues." HCDDS Psychologist Dr. Lauren Jones explains the symptoms, as well as effective strategies for understanding this condition and prioritizing your mental health.

In addition to our mental health, our physical health is important, too. Local fitness instructor Anna Hall dives into the benefits of exercise and shares simple ideas to start an exercise routine.

Lastly, I'm excited to share our 5 Questions interview with Kim Hauck, the Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.

She shares her personal reasons for getting into this field, her goals for the future, and more.

I hope you're looking forward to this new year as much as I am—happy reading!

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CVG Airport Joins Hidden Disabilities Sunflower Program Traveling through an airport can be stressful for passengers, especially people with disabilities or medical conditions. More than 215 airports, including the CincinnatiNorthern Kentucky International Airport (CVG), participate in the Sunflower Lanyard program.

This worldwide initiative aims to raise awareness and support people who have autism, hearing loss, anxiety, or other conditions that may not be readily visible.

Employees and volunteers at many airports and other public places identify the sunflower as a symbol that a person may need additional assistance and patience.

Wearing a lanyard does not expedite security or other airport processes. Rather, it allows an individual to voluntarily share that they may need a helping hand, more understanding, or more time. At CVG, all airlines, concessions, and TSA personnel are aware of the program and how they can help travelers.

Email info@cvgairport.com to request a free sunflower lanyard that can be mailed to you. Travelers can also stop by the information desk on the baggage claim level of the airport to get a lanyard.

The sunflower lanyard is for travelers with disabilities or other conditions not readily visible. It indicates to airport personnel that a person may need more time or patience.

News & Notes

Instructors at Perfect North in Indiana offer adaptive ski and snowboard lessons for people with disabilities, including a seated option.

Hit the Slopes for a Cold Weather Adventure!

Have you ever wanted to try skiing or snowboarding but didn’t know how to get started? Perfect North Slopes in Indiana has a Snow Sports School that offers a variety of group or individual lessons.

They also have adaptive instructors to work with people who have a wide array of disabilities. This includes hearing or vision impairments, amputees, spina bifida, cerebral palsy, intellectual disabilities, and more.

To join the adaptive program, adults and children must be able to hold their head upright through rough terrain and breathe without using special equipment.

Perfect North also has a sit-ski program and a limited amount of adaptive equipment available to rent.

The winter sports resort is located about 30 miles from downtown Cincinnati.

Visit PerfectNorth.com or call (812) 5373754 for more information about adaptive programs.

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PigAbilities training group restarts soon

Photos by Lisa Danford. People with disabilities and their supporters walk at Friendship Park in 2023. They were training for the annual PigAbilities event in May.

Learn to become a leader!

The Ohio Developmental Disabilities (DD) Council is accepting applications for new members. This Council is a statewide leadership organization that improves independence, productivity and inclusion for people with developmental disabilities and their families in community life.

Members come from all over Ohio, are appointed by the governor, and attend multiple meetings per year. Ohio DD Council recruitment is always open, and you can apply any time.

To be part of the Council, you must be a person with a developmental disability, a family member, or work at an organization or agency supporting people with developmental disabilities.

To apply, you can complete an online membership application at DDC.Ohio.gov.

You can also contact Donna Foster at (614) 644-5538 or donna.foster@dodd.ohio.gov.

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Dozens of athletes with disabilities joined the PigAbilities Meetups last year.

In 2024, Hamilton County Developmental Disabilities Services partnering with Queen City Running once again for a fun way to get fit and train together.

Meetups are 2-3 p.m. Sundays and will cover distances ranging from 0.25 miles to 1 mile, along accessible routes. Each Meetup offers a chance to socialize and connect with others while getting ready for PigAbilities, a one-mile event for participants and their supporters to run, walk or roll at their own pace and cross the official Flying Pig Marathon Finish Swine! »

Feb. 25 – LeBlond Rec Center, 2335 Riverside Drive

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March 3 – Mill Creek Greenway Trail (Salway Trailhead), 4400 Spring Grove Ave.

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March 10 – Theodore M. Berry Friendship Park, 1135 Riverside Drive

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March 17 – Francis RecreAcres, 11982 Conrey Road

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March 24 – LeBlond Rec Center

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March 31 – No Group Meetup

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April 7 – Mill Creek Greenway Trail (Salway Trailhead)

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April 14 – Theodore M. Berry Friendship Park

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April 21 – Francis RecreAcres

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April 28 – LeBlond Rec Center

PigAbilities is Saturday, May 4.

Learn more and register at FlyingPigMarathon.com

Is it “Winter Blues” or Something More?

Features

Seasonal Affective Disorder can impact your mood and daily life

By Dr. Lauren Jones

Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD) is a form of depression. It’s called Major Depressive Disorder with Seasonal Pattern because it begins and ends during the same seasons every year.

About 1 in every 20 people experience SAD, mostly during fall and winter. For people with this depressive disorder, scientists believe winter’s shorter days and decreased sunlight might lead to changes in the body’s internal clock and the brain chemicals that affect mood.

SAD can cause a person to feel exhausted and out of sync with their usual daily schedule. Changes in brain chemicals can also make it harder to feel positive, be in a good mood, or find motivation to start or complete daily tasks. Seasonal Affective Disorder is more than just the “winter blues” and longing for spring and sunshine to return. Symptoms of SAD are similar to other forms of depression and not something you should ignore when you notice them.

Signs of SAD can be mild or severe and can include the following symptoms: ◇

Feeling sad, down or having a depressed mood most of the day, most days for two weeks

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Losing interest or pleasure in activities you usually enjoy

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Problems sleeping – usually sleeping too much

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Appetite changes – usually eating more and craving carbohydrates, sometimes with weight gain

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Feeling sluggish or having low energy

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Increased movements that don’t have a clear purpose, like pacing or handwringing. It can also include slowed movements or speech that are slow enough for other people to notice a change

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Having difficulty thinking, concentrating, or making decisions

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Feeling guilty, hopeless or worthless

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Having thoughts about death or ending your life

There are several treatments for Seasonal Affective Disorder (SAD), including medication, light therapy, and cognitive behavioral talk therapy. It is important to talk to your healthcare provider about your symptoms to find out if you have SAD and get the treatments you need to live and feel better.

A person with SAD or other types of depression might feel guilty, hopeless, or worthless, and might have thoughts of death or ending their life. If you or someone you know has thoughts about suicide, this is a mental health emergency, and you should call 988.

You can also text 988 at any time to reach counselors who can help. Call 911 if you or someone you know is in danger or needs medical help right away.

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GAME ON Adaptive Tech Makes Video Games More Accessible

By James Harley Just like sports and movies, video games are a big part of the entertainment industry.

For many people, video games are a way to connect with others, relieve stress, and have fun. With new adaptive technology, it’s now easier for people with disabilities to play video games and be as competitive as their counterparts without disabilities.

“It’s still in its infancy, but video game accessibility is gaining traction,” said Austin Scott, who helps run a monthly gaming group for The Bridge Adaptive Sports and Recreation.

“A lot of developers are starting to consult charities and people with disabilities to make their games more accessible, but there is still a long way to go.”

Scott hosts the monthly adaptive gaming evaluations at Velocity E-Sports at Newport on the Levee. At these sessions, people with physical disabilities can try out different adaptive controllers to see what works best for them.

But the fun doesn’t stop when the session is over, said Danny Meyer, executive director of The Bridge Adaptive Sports and Recreation.

Before people leave, they get instructions to set up the system or games at home.

“Gaming is universal,” he said. “Anyone can play any game, and we can help set it up so you can play with someone across the country or in your own home.”

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Charles McDonald learns how to use an Xbox controller with one hand so he can play video games with his sons.

Taylor Spradling is a regular at the monthly video game meetups hosted by The Bridge Adaptive Sports & Recreation.

Features (Left) The Xbox Adaptive controller Photo by Microsoft (Right) The newest adaptive video game controller on the market: The Sony Access Controller Photo by Sony

Xbox Adaptive Controller

Sony Access Controller

The Xbox Adaptive controller has been on the market since 2018. This controller was designed for people with limited mobility in their hands. Players can connect different equipment—custom buttons, trigger inputs and other assistive devices—to control the game. It works with any Xbox console or Windows PC.

Sony released its Access controller for the PlayStation 5 system in December.

It features swappable buttons and stick caps to help with mobility needs, as well as an adjustable stick length for more comfort and control. The controller is wireless so you can place it in different positions to suit your needs, like wheelchair trays or other flat surfaces.

In-game options In addition to adaptive technology, most new games have a variety of accessibility features. These include voiceover, large text options and easier to control features. For example, you can set up the game to hold down the button instead of having to constantly push a button. You can find accessibility options in the game settings.

AbleGamers AbleGamers is a non-profit that offers one-on-one support to empower people with disabilities to experience gaming, provides grants for assistive technology, and collaborates with industry leaders to influence accessible game design and development. Their website, AbleGamers. org, has a knowledge base with how-to articles for different disabilities, games, and systems to help video game players.

Jerrica Stone, left, tests out different adaptive controllers with Danny Meyer at Velocity E-Sports.

The Bridge Adaptive Sports and Recreation is hosting its next Adaptive Gaming Evaluation from 7-9 p.m. Wednesday, Jan. 24.

Visit TheBridgeAdaptive.org/Programs to register.

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Business Boom Entrepreneurs with disabilities follow their passions to profits.

By Lisa Danford

Paw-sitively Stylish

Morgan Godfrey loves her two dogs, Bailey and Charlie. They’re a constant inspiration for her business, Made by Morgan, which sells scrunchie-style dog bandanas.

Godfrey, 24, found her passion in sewing.

Her mom, Jenny, likes making quilts and asked her daughter to sew with her. Quilts are big projects that require a lot of time. It was also getting expensive to buy all that fabric, Godfrey said, so her mom suggested a smaller project—making bandanas for Bailey and Charlie.

Godfrey launched Made By Morgan in October 2022, followed quickly by a series of craft shows. “I really wanted my own business, and I like doing craft shows.”

The bandanas come in a variety of fabrics—Cincinnati Bengals bandanas are particularly popular. They are scrunchiestyle, which means they have an elastic band to fit around the dog’s neck. That style also means the bandanas can fit every breed from a chihuahua to a Saint Bernard.

She’s also made custom bandanas for potbelly pigs.

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In addition to local shops, Morgan Godfrey frequently sells her dog bandanas at craft fairs.

The Cincinnati Bengals dog bandana (below) is one of her best sellers.

“Morgan took her passion for dogs and her love of sewing, and combined them into something that makes her really happy and proud of herself,” Jenny said.

Godfrey loves sewing and built relationships with local business owners who sell her products in their shops. These include Just Brew and Pet Wants Cincy West, as well as groomers Dog Gone Beautiful and Pampered Pets.

“It makes me happy to see the dogs with their bandanas,” Godfrey said.

Made By Morgan also partnered with the local humane society, SPCA Cincinnati, to provide bandanas for the Adopt-a-Pet fund telethon in February and the Fur Ball gala in April.

Delightful Desserts “She believed she could, so she did” is Maggie Neumann’s mantra. The 25-yearold always loved baking and now owns Maggie’s Marvelous Mini Cheesecakes. Her customers love the key lime flavor, but her favorites are chocolate peanut butter and mocha.

Cover Story

Maggie Neumann working on cheesecakes in her wheelchair-accessible kitchen.

Neumann has spina bifida and dreamed of working in a bakery. “Most bakeries aren’t wheelchair accessible, so I did not know if I would ever be able to do that,” she said.

Neumann liked making brownies but started experimenting with baking in muffin tins during the pandemic. One of those experiments would become her signature item – a mini cheesecake. A former teacher tried her cheesecakes and loved them so much, she placed an order for a baby shower and Neumann’s dream became a reality.

Neumann and her mom, Michelle, launched the business in June 2020. From their home, equipped with a wheelchairaccessible counter, they’ve made more than 40,000 mini cheesecakes. “It’s gone better than we ever thought it would,” Michelle said. “We divide up the tasks. She’ll work on crusts and whipped cream on one station, and I’ll make the batter on another station.”

Maggie’s Marvelous Mini-Cheesecakes has eight standard flavors, as well as rotating monthly and seasonal flavors like peppermint bark for winter. They take custom orders and sell cheesecakes at local coffee shop Just Brew.

Keeping up with orders, especially during the holidays, is challenging, but Neumann loves interacting with customers and keeping track of expenses on spreadsheets.

They recently launched a website, started hiring interns who also have disabilities, and donate 20% of their sales to nonprofits. “I’m really proud of what I have been able to do,” Neumann said. “It keeps me motivated— always believe you can do more than you think you can.”

Artistic Ambition Aaron Strait has a specific artistic style.

His repetitive strokes perfectly capture the details on iconic structures like the Roebling Bridge.

“I am a great artist, historian and researcher,” he said. Strait, 31, grew up around art and developed his skills during high school. His mom, Dawn, who is also an artist, said her son “has a natural ability and a unique perspective.”

Strait, who has autism and apraxia, had trouble finding a job after high school.

(Above) Aaron Strait painting a cityscape.

A tray filled with signature flavors from Maggie’s Marvelous Mini Cheesecakes. She regularly has orders for parties, banquets and other events.

(Left) A painting of the Roebling Bridge in downtown Cincinnati.

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“I was frustrated, so that’s when we started doing more with his artwork,” Dawn said.

They created Aaron’s Art for Autism, with proceeds going to different disability programs around Cincinnati. Strait said painting feels “relaxing and calm.” He likes using acrylic to paint cityscapes, oceans, and trains at the holidays. “I love painting the different sizes and shapes that make up steam locomotives,” he said.

In addition to canvas artwork, Strait and his mom sell cards based on their paintings.

Sending Smiles

Jakob wearing a sweatshirt with his “Too Cool to Be Typical” design.

A bright blue peacock, with feathers on full display, pops against a whimsical background. It’s one of Jakob Sidney’s favorite drawings.

Sidney, 22, always loved sending and receiving cards. On a cold winter day in 2021, his mom, Jenn, suggested they make Valentine’s Day cards to pass time. “When Jakob was done, I laid them out on the table and thought, ‘there is something special here,’” she said.

She found a printer to make 200 sets, and they opened an online store. The first run sold out in less than two hours. A second order of 500 sets sold out in two days, and they launched his business: Cards by Jakob.

Sidney, who has autism, said he “loves helping send smiles.” His favorite part of the business is packing and shipping the cards, but he also likes keeping track of inventory. “His art is special, sweet, fun and whimsical,” Jenn said. “He works hard, and it’s important for people to understand that there is more to him than the eye can see.”

He built a steady fan base online and through local art and craft fairs. “It makes me feel good,” Sidney said. “Your support fills my whole heart with indescribable purpose.” Recently, Cards by Jakob expanded into calendars, apparel and a children’s coloring book.

Find art, cards, cheesecakes, bandanas and more at Just Brew in Silverton, 6940 Plainfield Road.

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Jakob Sidney's drawing of a tiger. His drawings are a key part of his business, Cards by Jakob.

All photos provided

Features

Job Coaches Offer Strategies for Success

By James Harley and Lisa Danford Having a job coach can allow people with disabilities to work in the community with assistance. A job coach or other employment specialist helps people learn their job duties and understand how to do their work.

Demetrius Scott is a kitchen steward at Hard Rock Casino Cincinnati, where he’s responsible for washing dishes and other cleaning tasks. He’s been working with Laura Kamesar of Easterseals Redwood for more than a year. “I definitely appreciate Laura,” he said. “She’s given me suggestions on what I should do and how to improve.”

Kamesar, who has been a service coordinator for 20 years, said her role is supporting people at their job. “We help solve problems, but most important is to have our clients learn on their own to progress and excel at work,” she said.

Scott is a visual learner and prefers to watch how tasks should be done. He’s detail-oriented but sometimes needs help seeing the big picture. For example, he

Demetrius Scott discusses his job duties with his Easterseals Redwood Service Coordinator Laura Kamesar.

Anna Leah Swafford works at Meijer re-stocking items around the store. She has a job coach from Ikron who checks in with her at least once a month.

used to wait for the dishwasher to finish its cycle before completing other work.

“It’s a quick cycle, but I told him he should continue to do anything else that needs to be done without having to wait for the dishwasher,” Kamesar said. She also had him set an alarm on his phone as a reminder to check the water temperature or let a dirty pan soak before trying to scrub it clean. “He’s very responsive and has improved so much,” she said.

Anna Leah Swafford works at Meijer, where she helps put items back on the shelf. She works with a job coach from Ikron at least once a month. “It’s good having someone check in with me while I do my job,” she said. “My job coach also helps me with computer training or if I have trouble finding an item in the aisle.”

For people considering on-the-job support, Swafford says employment specialists can help with your strengths and weaknesses, in addition to other skills like time management or interpersonal relationships.

Scott recommends people not be afraid of asking for assistance. “What makes me feel good about it is that I’m able to do more things,” he said. “Having Laura’s support and strategies helped me succeed.”

All photos by Lisa Danford

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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

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Jamie Hoskins Colerain Twp. • 35 years old I have fun going to the mall or to Goodwill to shop for clothes. Most of the time I like looking at all the different outfits. I also like watching movies.

Sometimes I watch movies at my house, or I go to the movie theater with my staff.

Diana Mairose Norwood • 45 years old I like to go to bookstores. My two favorites are Joseph Beth Booksellers in Rookwood and Half-Price Books in Kenwood. I like looking at different sections like art, young adult, travel, and reference. I also enjoy the holiday and themed book display tables, puzzles, music, and games. Sometimes when I travel, I visit different bookstores for fun. In the winter, I like to cuddle with a book, a blanket and my cat, Theodore.

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My Voice

Aaron Young Westwood • 31 years old The accomplishment I am most proud of is when I graduated high school in the top 10 percent of my class. I was sitting in the very first row at graduation. I got to walk across the stage to receive my high school diploma and shake hands with my teachers. I felt absolutely great about it and would say it was one of the greatest experiences and blessings of my life.

Jason Waugh Green Twp. • 42 years old I’m part of my community by helping people and working. I work at Outback Steakhouse in Western Hills. I have worked there for more than four years. I get to meet new people and help out my co-workers when they need me. They are all like family. I also like talking to different people I know who come into the restaurant.

Miara Miles Finneytown • 25 years old My greatest accomplishment is getting out on my own and getting into my own house. I liked gaining my independence and making some of my own decisions. I love to write, play video games, and spend time with my dog, Cali. She makes me very happy. I like pushing her around in a stroller on our walks and buying her toys.

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questions with Kim Hauck, Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD)

How did you get into this field?

What are your goals for the future?

When I was young, both of my parents worked in social services. I always thought I wanted to work in a field where I could help people. Then, an uncle who I was very close with, was in a significant car accident. I spent time with him and learned a lot about people who had vision impairments, traumatic brain injury, and about supports people with disabilities need. When I was in college, I switched my major to special education.

First and foremost, my goal is to hear more from people who are living with a disability and their families. I want to make sure people with disabilities have a voice here at the department. We’re also really thinking about the services and supports that people have available to them today, and making sure we are meeting needs in an effective and efficient way. I was also a teacher for many years, so I’m thinking about how we can find kids earlier in their journey, work to keep families together in the community, and help change the trajectory for how they’ll live their life as adults.

What is something you wish people knew about DODD? We are one of 26 cabinet agencies, which means I report directly to the governor. In most states, that doesn't happen.

I think being able to have a seat at the table and talk directly with the governor really shows his commitment to people with developmental disabilities, and his desire to really support people living in the state of Ohio.

Where is your favorite place to visit in Ohio and why?

Hocking Hills is my favorite place to visit. We like to camp and hike. My kids are older, so now my husband and I have time to spend together and reconnect.

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What has been your biggest challenge as director?

When I'm out and meeting with people who have disabilities and their families, they share their needs. As soon as I hear about an issue, I want to go back and take care of it quickly. But I’ve learned that I can’t always do that because it’s something we might need to address as a system. That’s been really hard for me.

Build Healthier Habits in the New Year

By Anna Hall Exercise is essential for our bodies and our minds. It improves our overall health, stamina and muscle strength.

More importantly, exercising consistently reduces anxiety symptoms, improves mood, reduces a range of behaviors, and supports regulation of our emotions. When we exercise, our body naturally releases the feel-good neurotransmitters called endorphins. Endorphins support our body when we feel pain or stress and naturally increase our overall happiness.

Completing a workout is also a chance to practice independence. You can decide when and how long to workout and what type of exercise to do. Building a routine can lead to a more positive body and mind.

A good goal is at least two days of muscle strengthening activity and 2.5 hours of moderate-intensity physical activity per week. Moderate-intensity physical activity is something that challenges your body and increases your heart rate. This could be dancing, a brisk walk, or completing 20 jumping jacks in a row without stopping.

To see results, it’s essential to set realistic and achievable goals. Consider taking ten minutes every day to work toward your goal and build up from there. Small changes make a big difference to support your overall health and well-being.

Anna Hall is a fitness instructor who offers 1-on-1 instruction and group exercise classes for people with disabilities.

My Life

Physical activity includes a large range of activities — think of it simply as moving more and sitting less!

Here are some specific exercises to try: Squat to Chair Protect your knees by keeping your legs bent at 90°.

Seated Hamstring Stretch Keep your leg straight while reaching toward your toes.

Seated Leg Extensions Lift your foot out straight, hinging at the knee.

Seated Arm Circles Make big and small circles. Go clockwise and then counterclockwise.

Arms Overhead March Keep your spine neutral as you march with your knees in the air. Try holding a water bottle overhead for an extra challenge.

Email annaisfabulous@gmail.com to learn more.

Photos by Anna Hall 17

me attendees play a ga Advocacy Summit or d re e er?” and us of “Would You Rath te their choice. ca di in blue flags to

More than 100 people attended the first Neighbors in Action Advocacy Summit on Sept. 30. Everyone had a blast playing games, connecting to others, and sharing what’s important in their lives. “We learn together to speak for ourselves and others to make an impact in the world,” said Neighbors in Action member Amy Hayden. Photos by Lisa Danford.

The Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati (DSAGC) partnered with the National Down Syndrome Society to bring their annual Adult Summit to Cincinnati! The threeday event covered aging and Down syndrome through a wholeperson, comprehensive approach.

Content overlapped ages and subject areas, providing attendees with information and practical resources. Photo by Krissy Vinson.

Visionaries + Voices (V+V) hosted Show of Hands Puppet Festival this fall, offering 11 inclusive art workshops and five performances. V+V paired its teaching artists with professional puppeteers, so everyone had access to adaptive art opportunities. This event was free for the community with grants through ArtsWave, Ohio Arts Council, and donations from the organization’s supporters.

Photos by Courtney Combs-Mock.

More than 1,000 people participated in Show of Hands.

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My Life

Calendar Cavalcade of Customs

Kitchen Skills

Jan. 12-14. Duke Energy Convention Center.

Feb. 20. Tablespoon Cooking Co.

Annual showcase with hundreds of custom cars, hotrods, motorcycles, trucks, and more.

Sharpen your kitchen skills while making a delicious meal during this hands-on cooking class.

DSAGC.org

Autorama.com Katy Ried stands up e, right, to share an idea with the group .

Chad May er, former DSAGC bo ard memb er, Emily Ken dall, DSAG C mom and Co-Found er of Empow er Living, and Megan Bu rger, curre nt DSAGC bo ard memb er.

MLK Day Celebration Jan. 15. Various Locations.

Feb. 25. Kennedy Heights Art Center.

Annual celebration and commemoration of Martin Luther King Jr. in Cincinnati. Events begin at the Freedom Center, end at Music Hall.

Opening for “When Liberation Comes,” an art exhibit, as part of a visual and performing arts series examining Black history from a contemporary perspective.

MLKcoalition.org

KennedyArts.org

Full Moon Stroll

Living Well in the Community

Jan. 25. Smale Park.

Celebrate the first full moon of the new year while learning about nocturnal wildlife.

Telescopes available for stargazing.

CHPL.org/events

Neighbors in Action Feb. 6. On Zoom..

Monthly advocacy meeting to discuss rights, transportation, voting and upcoming events. bit.ly/NIAmeeting

Healthy Relationships Virtual Chat Feb. 14. On Zoom.

A monthly group discussion about healthy relationships, boundaries, and consent.

Email projectcare@ywcacin.org for details.

g artist ick, teachin r Linda Kun h er, wit he and perform erfly puppet. g butt transformin

Voices of Freedom

Begins March 14. HCDDS Support Center.

A 10-week, peer-led series about support, individual choice, and selfdetermination.

HamiltonDDS.org/calendar

Mindfulness Class March 19. On Zoom.

Join a Project CARE self-advocate who leads a session on mindfulness to connect and reduce isolation.

Email projectcare@ywcacin.org for details

Horror Hound Weekend March 22-24. Sharonville Convention Center.

A pop culture convention that celebrates the horror genre with vendors, celebrity meet-andgreets, and more.

HorrorHoundWeekend.com

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Audio version available now, thanks to CABVI’s Radio Reading Service!

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.