THIS IS WHAT EMPOWERMENT LOOKS LIKE
THIS IS WHAT EMPOWERMENT LOOKS LIKE
DEAR FRIEND,
Fifty years ago, people with developmental disabilities were devalued and dismissed, tucked away in institutions and lost in a system designed to make them disappear. In 1975, Peggy Geier, along with other determined families, founded LADD and forged a new way. These families were committed to providing education and training that would lead to greater dignity and independence for people with developmental disabilities.
Sue Meyer shared this determination. When her son, Chad, was born with Down syndrome, Sue rejected the advice to institutionalize him. At 44 years old, Chad is thriving and making meaningful contributions to our community. As a member of LADD’s Supported Employment program, he is the assistant manager of the mailroom and a valued employee of KMK Law for sixteen years. This job has been pivotal in fostering Chad’s independence, enabling him to live in his own apartment in downtown Cincinnati. He enjoys riding the streetcar, shopping, meeting friends, and attending Reds games.
With your generosity, LADD offers comprehensive programs to more than 800 adults with developmental disabilities:
• Health and Wellness: Promotes an active, healthy lifestyle through group classes, personal coaching and wellness events, including personalized plans, meal planning and nutrition coaching.
• Remote Supports: Powered by LADD’s proprietary and award-winning Smart Living Systems, Remote Supports utilizes customized smart home technology and wearable devices to create need-specific, predictive supports that help people live more independent lives.
• Smart Homes: Supports independent living fully integrated into the community by building or remodeling small clusters of homes in desirable, walkable neighborhoods. Each home includes smart technology that supports health, safety and independence.
THIS IS WHAT DETERMINATION LOOKS LIKE
TINA DUWEL
Tina Duwel, a resident of Senior Living at Victory Parkway, embodies determination and independence. A year ago, she joined Fit for Life, LADD’s weekly workout class. Initially struggling, Tina’s strength and balance steadily improved with program support, leading to weight loss and newfound confidence. After a challenging workout, she exclaimed, “I feel amazing!” Now, Tina is more engaged in community activities and focused on healthy eating. She inspires her peers, showcasing the transformative power of determination and supportive community living.
SYDNEY GIBSON
THIS IS WHAT EMPOWERMENT LOOKS LIKE
DEAR FRIEND,
Fifty years ago, people with developmental disabilities were devalued and dismissed, tucked away in institutions and lost in a system designed to make them disappear. In 1975, Peggy Geier, along with other determined families, founded LADD and forged a new way. These families were committed to providing education and training that would lead to greater dignity and independence for people with developmental disabilities.
Sue Meyer shared this determination. When her son, Chad, was born with Down syndrome, Sue rejected the advice to institutionalize him. At 44 years old, Chad is thriving and making meaningful contributions to our community. As a member of LADD’s Supported Employment program, he is the assistant manager of the mailroom and a valued employee of KMK Law for sixteen years. This job has been pivotal in fostering Chad’s independence, enabling him to live in his own apartment in downtown Cincinnati. He enjoys riding the streetcar, shopping, meeting friends, and attending Reds games.
Sydney, the front desk receptionist at LADD, is passionate about her work and eager to expand her skills. She is currently taking communications courses at the University of Cincinnati and is enrolled in a 12-week hospitality course through a partnership between LADD and the Visit Cincy Dan Lincoln Institute for Hospitality Leadership. This unique program in Ohio aims to build a skilled and diverse workforce in hospitality. Upon completion, Sydney will earn a certificate that will prepare her for employment in the field and open many future opportunities.
With your generosity, LADD offers comprehensive programs to more than 800 adults with developmental disabilities:
• Health and Wellness: Promotes an active, healthy lifestyle through group classes, personal coaching and wellness events, including personalized plans, meal planning and nutrition coaching.
• Remote Supports: Powered by LADD’s proprietary and award-winning Smart Living Systems, Remote Supports utilizes customized smart home technology and wearable devices to create need-specific, predictive supports that help people live more independent lives.
• Smart Homes: Supports independent living fully integrated into the community by building or remodeling small clusters of homes in desirable, walkable neighborhoods. Each home includes smart technology that supports health, safety and independence.
Sincerely,
Aaron Haslam Board President
Kush V. Kotecha Board Chair
For nearly 50 years, LADD has made significant strides advocating for inclusion and equality. Yet, much work remains. Your support is crucial in empowering adults with developmental disabilities, like Chad, through health and wellness programs, day services, employment opportunities and advocacy. With your help, we can continue to empower others by providing the support and opportunities they need to live independent and fulfilling lives.
Giving to our annual fund ensures LADD’s transformative work continues so that everyone can thrive and be seen for their true potential.
Together, we can create a world in which all people are recognized for their ability and value.
Susan Brownknight Chief Executive Officer
THIS IS WHAT AMBITION LOOKS LIKE
MARC FRIED
Marcus “Marc” Fried dreams of becoming the next Steven Spielberg. In 2023, he co-directed See My Ability, Not My Disability, featured at Over-the-Rhine International Film Festival. His blog shares unique insights on films, restaurants, and Cincinnati events.
Living in a Smart Home powered by Smart Living Systems in Blue Ash, Marc enjoys independence with the support that he needs. At home, he hosts his podcast, CinemarcusLive, interviewing fellow movie buffs and community members about their love of film.
JEWEL BOLT
In 1984, Jewel Bolt became the first resident of Find-A-Way Apartments. For forty years, it has been her beloved home and community. She met her long-term companion, Michael there. They shared many happy years living nearby and working together at The Christ Hospital until his passing in 2017. Despite his passing, the Find-A-Way community continues to provide Jewel with steadfast love and support highlighting the vital role of community in her life.
THIS IS WHAT INDEPENDENCE LOOKS LIKE
Name as I/we would like to be recognized: I would like this gift to be anonymous.
Phone
MARGARET B. GEIER SOCIETY $1,000+
Yes, I want to empower adults with developmental disabilities to live, work and connect! I would like to make a:
Gift in the amount of: $
Pledge in the amount of: $
Pledge payment schedule to begin (date including year):
Gift of Stock (see reverse)
Check payable to LADD
Credit Card (check one)
Secure donations can also be made online at laddinc.org/ac See reverse side for other ways to give.
Card No.
Exp. CVV
Name on Card
YOUR DONATION HELPS OTHERS LIVE AN EMPOWERED LIFE.
100 Provides Community Engagement Activities for five individuals, offering meaningful experiences that foster connection and inclusion.
250 Supplies Wearable Technology to empower one person with tools that promote community-based independence and safety.
500 Delivers Supported Employment Services to help one individual gain meaningful employment, fostering independence and professional growth.
$ 1,000 Funds a month of Health and Wellness programs, empowering individuals with disabilities to lead healthier, more active lives.
$2,000 Furnishes one room in a LADD Smart Home, creating a comfortable and accessible living space for residents.
TO DONATE ONLINE, VISIT LADDINC.ORG/AC OR SCAN THE CODE
LADD BOARD OFFICERS
Kush V. Kotecha, Board Chair
Aaron Haslam, President
Will Goering, Vice President
Robert “Chip” Heidt III, Vice President
Maggie Palazzolo, Vice President
Emily Geier Vollmer, Secretary
Michael A. Head, Treasurer
CHIEF EXECUTIVE OFFICER
Susan Brownknight
Guided by the belief that every person has ability and value, LADD empowers adults with developmental disabilities to live, work and connect.
DIRECTORS
Wendell E. Anderson
Kathleen Arar, M.D.
Andrew J. R. Brennan
Robert S. Bullock
Jack Geiger
Shelley F. Goering
Chris Lidel
Patrick J. Mathews, CPA
ADVISORY BOARD
Phyllis Breen
Christopher A. Carlson
Anthony G. Esposito
Vallie C. Geier
Gary J. Gruber
Karri Haffner
Susan Cutler Harris
Poppy Hawkins
Francie Hiltz
Betsy A. Mullin
Peter Neihoff
Alena L. O’Donnell
Kim Vincent
Erika Watson
Michael A. Weber
David Zimmerman
Emmy Hobson
Marie Huenefeld
John Lanier
Kate Lawrence
Michael S. McGraw
Donald L. Mellott, Jr.
Esther Lee Pederson
Charles A. Pettengill