Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Everyone has unique abilities. Imagine what we can do when we work together.
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Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities The Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) is the primary funder and provider of services for children and adults with developmental disabilities. This county agency provides direct and contracted educational, employment and support services to residents of Mahoning County who meet eligibility requirements. Services are provided at no charge and are supported by local tax dollars as well as state and federal funding. Programs include: • The Early Intervention / Help Me Grow program is designed to ensure Ohio’s children receive a healthy birth and the resources to warrant a healthy and productive start in life. • School-age programs designed to assist children with disabilities to flourish in an environment that is best suited to their special needs. • Adult services designed to increase independence including vocational programs and habilitation services. • Employment Services are available to individuals who have an interest in working in the community. • Senior services and programs for medically fragile individuals. • Transportation services • Case management and Community Services • Administration of waiver programs providing for residential and community-based services. This wide range of comprehensive educational, vocational and support services is provided throughout the life span of each individual served. Approximately 1,400 individuals and families receive services each year from the MCBDD. The Board of Directors of the MCBDD is comprised of seven members who are appointed by the Mahoning County Commissioners or the Probate Judge. The law requires that at least three of the Board members are family members of individuals who either receive, or are eligible to receive, services from the Board. All Board members serve on a voluntary basis with no compensation for their services.
Our Mission: To provide ongoing programs, services and supports which assist eligible individuals with developmental disabilities in choosing and achieving a life of increasing capacity to live and work in the community and to reach their full potential as members of society. Our Vision: Every person eligible for Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities programs will have access to quality services for as long as they need them.
“Can Do! Like You” Developmental Disabilities Awareness Project In an effort to educate the public about the services it provides, the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities is pleased to present this special insert. The theme, “Can Do! Like You,” encourages each of us to focus on the talents and abilities of people and how they make a difference in our community. It encourages each of us to look beyond an individual’s disabilities and see their capabilities. Statewide, and across the nation, organizations devoted to serving individuals with developmental disabilities work to raise public awareness of the many abilities people have, regardless of disability. “Can Do! Like You” encourages people to understand that when people with disabilities are welcomed into local neighborhoods, workplaces, houses of worship, and schools, everyone wins. The purpose of this special circular is to increase awareness of what developmental disabilities are, to educate the public about the services and programs provided by the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) and community partners, and to encourage the public to better understand the individu-
als served. “Through the work we do on a daily basis, our organization focuses on encouraging the public to better understand the individuals we serve,” said Bill Whitacre, Superintendent of the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities. “We encourage people to learn more about the hundreds of people in this community who have developmental disabilities and to recognize that all of us have talents and abilities that we can offer to make this a better place to live,” Whitacre added. Everyone has unique abilities. Imagine what we can do when we work together!
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t is often attitudinal barriers that affect everyday life for people with developmental disabilities. In addressing these barriers through positive awareness efforts, fears and negative attitudes can be replaced with knowledge and understanding. www.mahoningdd.org
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A Message from the Superintendent The Mahoning County Board of Develfamilies gain acopmental Disabilities (MCBDD) is an incess to much credible asset to the citizens of Mahoning needed services. County. MCBDD provides a multitude of Although our sysservices that help provide meaningful outtem has evolved comes for individuals with Developmental over those years, Disabilities. MCBDD recently added Help our mission and viMe Grow and Early Intervention Services sion has remained to supplement school age, adult services, the same; to proSSA and transportation services. It is our vide opportunities hope that providing Help Me Grow and that support peoBill Whitacre Early Intervention Services will set a better ple living a life life course for individuals that are involved that is meaningful with this program. to them. Continuing to strengthen relaFor over 40 years MCBDD and its part- tionships with other agencies and communers have supported individuals and their nity stakeholders will be necessary to
move our system forward in the future and allow us to continue to provide those opportunities. Over the next several years MCBDD will undergo several changes that are mandated by the state and federal governments. During that time it will be more important than ever for our community to work together to support individuals eligible for services through MCBDD. A strong network is in place to meet these mandated changes, but working together is the only way we can promote positive outcomes for the people and families we support. On behalf of the MCBDD Board mem-
bers and the nearly 1,400 individuals and families that you help support, I would like to say thank you to the citizens of Mahoning County. I would also invite you to visit our website, www.mahoningdd.org to learn more about our agency and its partners. Thank you for your support,
Bill Whitacre, Superintendent wwhitacre@mahoningcountyoh.gov 330-797-2827
Board Office: Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities 4791 Woodridge Drive Austintown, OH 44515-5100 Phone: 330.797.2825 Fax: 330.797.2843 www.mahoningdd.org Superintendent Bill Whitacre MCBDD Board Members Jack Gruber, President Joseph Pecchia, Vice President Henrietta Lewis, Recording Secretary Marilee Meloy Peter Noll Gary O’Nesti Anthony Sertick Mahoning County Commissioners David Ditzler Carol Rimedio-Righetti Anthony Traficanti Mahoning County Probate Court Judge The Honorable Judge Robert N. Rusu, Jr.
Front Row: (L to R) Anthony Sertick, Henrietta Lewis, Jack Gruber and Marilee Meloy Back Row: (L to R) Gary O’Nesti, Christopher Sammarone (Board Attorney), Bill Whitacre, Peter Noll and Joseph Pecchia
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Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
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MCBDD Core Values Integrity to instill public confidence in our judgment. Professionalism in our delivery of services and supports. Accountability for what we say and do. Responsibility for our actions and the duties we perform. Flexibility to adapt to changing needs and circumstances. Collaboration with other organizations and groups to increase the opportunities and resources available to help those we serve. Continuity of service delivery so that individuals and families can reliably count on the availability of services and supports in their lives. Objectivity in our decision-making, free from bias or unreasonable influence. Community integration for the individuals we serve to enable them to participate and be part of the community in which they live, work and play. Positive attitude that generates a “can-do” approach to our work.
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities Philosophy Excellence in every aspect of the service we provide is embedded in our Core Values Individualized programs will exhibit “best practices” We will provide flexible, equitable and balanced programs for each individual with developmental disabilities in our county. All programs will: • Incorporate the current “best practices in the field.” • Be integrated into the community to the greatest degree possible. • Reflect the individual abilities and needs of each person we serve. • Display teamwork and mutual respect. • Focus on outcomes so that each individual can achieve his/her maximum capability. Financial strategies will focus on the long-term Prudent budgeting that makes the best use of available resources is the only way to achieve long term stability and offer appropriate accountability to the taxpayers who so generously fund our services. We will maximize all available resources and will not engage in deficit spending that threatens the long-term health of the organization.
Facilities will be attractive, appropriate and accessible All facilities maintained by the MCBDD will be clean, safe, accessible, appropriate and attractive and will comply with all building codes. Architecture will blend into the community to the greatest degree possible. We will be a good neighbor in the communities we serve As a member of the community, the MCBDD will be a prudent steward of the dollars that taxpayers entrust to us. We will be ethical, reasonable and credible in our practices. We will provide the best services possible within the resources available to each person we serve. We will reach out to the community and become involved as individuals, and as an organization, in projects that make a difference.
Personnel will be productive and positive Those employed by the MCBDD will be productive, positive team players focused on advancing the goals of the individuals we serve. Initiative, mutual respect and flexibility are expected at all times to ensure that common interest will prevail over individual self-interest. Ethical and professional behavior will be the norm.
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Think “People First”
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The Rights of Individuals with Developmental Disabilities • To be treated nicely at all times and as a person. • To have a clean, safe place to live, and a place to be alone. • To have food that is good for you. • Be able to go, if you want, to any church, temple, or mosque. • Be able to go to a doctor or dentist when you are sick. • Be able to have people help you, if you need it, with the way you walk, talk, do things with your hands, act or feel. • Be able to have people help and teach you, if you want. • Be able to have time and a place to go to be by yourself.
Language is a reflection of how people see each other. That’s why the words we use can hurt. It’s also why responsible communicators are now choosing language which reflects the dignity of people with disabilities - words that put the person first, rather than the disability. Read on for a short course on using language that empowers. 1. Think people first. Say “a woman who has a disability” rather than “a disabled woman.” 2. Avoid words like “unfortunate,” “afflicted,” and “victim.” Also, try to avoid casting a person with a disability as a superhuman model of courage. People with disabilities are just people, not tragic figures or demigods.
• Be able to call, write letters or talk to anyone you want about anything you want. • Be able to have your own things and be able to use them. • Be able to have men and women as friends. • Be able to join in activities and do things that will help you grow to be the best person you can be. • Be able to work and make money. • Be treated like everyone else. • Not to be hit, yelled at, cursed at, or called names. • Be able to learn new things, make friends, have activities to do, and to go out in the community. • Be able to tell people what you want and to be part of making plans or decisions about your life.
• Be able to ask someone for help and to let others know how you feel or what you want. • Be able to use your money to pay for things you need and want, with help, if you need it. • Be able to say yes or no before people talk about what you do at work or home or look at your file. • Be able to complain or ask for changes if you don’t like something without being afraid of getting in trouble. • Not be given medicine that you don’t need or held down if you are not hurting yourself or others. • To vote and learn about laws and your community. • To say yes or no to being part of a study or experiment.
3. A developmental disability is not a disease. Do not mention “symptoms,” “patients,” or “treatment,” unless the person you’re describing has an illness as well as a disability. 4. Use common sense. Avoid terms with obvious negative or judgmental connotations, such as “crippled,” “deaf and dumb,” “lame,” and “defective.” If you aren’t sure how to refer to a person’s condition, ask. Further, if the disability is not relevant to your conversation, why mention it at all? 5. Never refer to a person as “confined to a wheelchair.” Wheelchairs enable people to escape confinement. A person with mobility impairment “uses” a wheelchair. 6. Try to describe people without disabilities as “typical” rather than “normal.”
“I work hard and I dance with my friends and sing at the dances.”
Source: Ohio Public Images, Inc.
Individual in MASCO day programming
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Spotlight On:
Kaleb Maldonado
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
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o me, Leonard Kirtz School is like family. The whole staff pulls together for every student. ” Parents of a child at Leonard Kirtz School
Leonard Kirtz School
Although small in stature, Kaleb has a commanding presence at Leonard Kirtz School, where he has been attending for two years. Kaleb is a child that melts everyone’s heart within the first five minutes of meeting him. With a captivating personality that seems to draw others to him, he is a very sweet little boy that knows how to make others smile. He is widely known for his sideways glances and smirks. He enjoys watching others and pays very close attention to what they are doing to emulate appropriate behavior. He enjoys the socialization at school and enjoys all of the school’s special events such as dances, parades, and community field trips. As if to show his leadership ability, Kaleb led the Halloween parade as a Navy captain. Through his specific individual educational plan goals, Kaleb has learned to be an excellent worker and enjoys activities that involve interacting with others. Some of Kaleb’s favorite activities are the Physical Therapy program where he has worked on walking with a gait trainer as well as stretching and strengthening programs. Kaleb also enjoys getting in the school pool and enjoying the water as he floats with staff members and classmates alike. Kaleb can also be seen enjoying planting cabbages in the greenhouse as well as working in the gym working with the pegboard!! Kaleb Maldonado is a great ambassador for everything that Leonard Kirtz School offers school aged children with developmental disabilities in Mahoning County!
Located in Austintown, Leonard Kirtz School is a chartered public school, which provides comprehensive programs and education for students between the ages of 6 and 22 with developmental disabilities. The content of the program is designed to provide social, academic, and vocational programs geared to the individual functioning level of each student. All students are from Mahoning County and are placed at Leonard Kirtz School through their school district of residence. It is the Board’s intent that all students who enter Leonard Kirtz School increase their cognition and benefit physically and vocationally, so they may reach their fullest potential. Certified teachers and specialists provide instruction through the implementation of Individual Education Plans (IEP). IEP goals concentrate on developing skills in communication, self-help, functional daily living, social interaction, cognitive development, vocational preparation, and vocational training. Leonard Kirtz School offers related services in the areas of speech, physical therapy, and contracted occupational therapy to those students in need of in-
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y teacher helps me.”
tervention as warranted through a comprehensive evaluation. Other related services available to all students include nursing, transportation, and case management. All students are provided transportation services to and from school and for field trips. In addition to classroom programs, school-age students receive instruction in six departments each week from certified instructors. Departments include;
Student at t Leonard Kirtz School adaptive physical education, swimming, Snoezelen, music, language arts and horticulture. Social activities are an important part of Leonard Kirtz School and include events such as a Halloween party, holiday fest, spring party, prom and graduation. For additional information, please contact Jeff Novak, Leonard Kirtz School Director of Education, at 330-797-2846 or jnovak@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
“Help Me Grow” Early Intervention Program After an absence of nearly ten years, the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities has re-launched the Help Me Grow Early Intervention Program to assist families in the Valley with needed services for children from birth to age three. As stated by the Ohio Department of Health, the Help Me Grow program is designed to ensure Ohio’s children receive a healthy birth and the resources to warrant a healthy and productive start in life. An integral part of Ohio’s prenatal to age three system of supports, the services offered by Help Me Grow equip parents with the means to help their child acquire the early building blocks necessary for long term success. These initial achievements last a lifetime, as scientific evidence strongly suggests that a child’s success is significantly determined by the quality of nurturing in the first three years
of life. The core belief of the Help Me Grow program is that all young children deserve the same opportunities to realize their full potential in life, regardless of economic, geographic, and demographic considerations. The parenting education and child development resources provided to families allows them to maximize this critical period of development in their child’s life, providing a foundation for lasting success. The MCBDD Help Me Grow Early Intervention Program provides Service Coordination for families of children with a developmental delay, disability, or a medical condition that is likely to result in a delay or disability. The Help Me Grow Early Intervention Service Coordinator coordinates a Developmental Evaluation and/or Assessment and a Family-Directed Assessment conducted by a multidisciplinary team to determine eligibility and
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need for service. Once eligibility and service needs have been determined and the family’s priorities have been identified, the family’s Help Me Grow Early Intervention Service Coordinator facilitates the development of the Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP). The Service Coordinator then works with the family to gain access to needed services and monitor service delivery. The MCBDD is proud to be a part of this important program and looks forward to assisting families during this critical developmental period and providing them with needed supports and strategies to promote their child’s growth and development. For additional information, please contact Melissa Leighton, Help Me Grow/ Early Intervention Supervisor at 330-7992967 or mleighton@mahoningcountyoh. gov.
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Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Waiver Program and listing of Community Providers What is a Waiver? You may have heard families and providers in our community talk about waivers and Medicaid. A waiver is a way to fund services for an individual with developmental disabilities. Services that are available through a waiver include respite, transportation, supervision and personal care in your home or in a home that serves other individuals with disabilities. Other services that waivers can pay for are adult day programs and employment services. Families can begin the process to apply for Medicaid and a waiver for their loved one by contacting an SSA in the Community Services Department at 330- 797-2925. MCBDD is proud to contract with the following community partners in providing services to individuals with developmental disabilities in Mahoning County:
Residential Services Accessible Home Services, Inc. Gateways to Better Living, Inc. Genesis Home Infinite PossAbilities Iron and String Life Enhancement Knabe Two Sisters Homes, LLC Leeda Northeast, Inc. Legacy Visiting Health Services New Leaf Residential Services, Inc. Raearc Industries, Inc. Second Phase, Inc. Siffrin, Inc. Threshold Residential Services, Inc. Turning Point Residential Services
HPC (personal care in the home) A Special Touch Home Services, LLC Accessible Home Services Exousia Rehabilitation Services, Inc. Gateways to Better Living, Inc. Golden String Iron and String Life Enhancement Kareng 4 U LLC Lala Love Healthcare Legacy Visiting Health Services Midwest Health Services. Inc. New Leaf Residential Services, Inc. Noble Health Care Raearc Industries, Inc. Sacred Arms, Inc. Second Phase, Inc. Siffrin, Inc. Teaching Excellence Threshold Residential Services Inc. TLM Residential Services Turning Point Residential Services
SUPPORTED Employment Services Accessible Home Services, Inc. Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull, & Columbiana Counties Gateways Industries Infinite PossAbilities In Christ’s Hands Iron and String Life Enhancement Leeda Northeast, Inc. Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities Midwest Innovations, LLC Raearc Industries, Inc. Second Phase, Inc. Siffrin, Inc. Turning Point Residential Services
Adult Day Services Accessible Home Services, Inc. Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull, & Columbiana Counties Gateways Industries In Christ’s Hands Iron and String Life Enhancement Leeda Northeast, Inc. Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities Midwest Innovations, LLC Raearc Industries, Inc. Second Phase, Inc. Siffrin, Inc. Threshold Residential Services, Inc. Turning Point Residential Services Transportation to/from Adult Day Services A Special Touch Home Services LLC Accessible Home Services, Inc. Easter Seals of Mahoning, Trumbull, & Columbiana Counties Friendly Support Services Ltd. Gateways Industries In Christ’s Hands Iron and String Life Enhancement Kareng 4 U LLC Kriebel, Donna M. Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities Midwest Innovations, LLC Raearc Industries, Inc. Second Phase, Inc. Siffrin, Inc. Transit Service, Inc. Turning Point Residential Services
Transportation (general – not adult day services) Accessible Home Services, Inc. Gateways to Better Living, Inc. Golden String, Inc. Iron and String Life Enhancement Knabe Two Sisters Homes, LLC Leeda Northeast, Inc. Legacy Visiting Health Services LHS Family & Youth Services INC Midwest Innovations, LLC New Leafe Residential Services, Inc. Raearc Industries, Inc. Second Phase, Inc. Siffrin, Inc. Teaching Excellence TLM Residential Services Turning Point Residential Services
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e know how important it is to our daughter and to us for her to be with her peers. She is with a dedicated and devoted staff. It wasn’t easy that first day I put her on the bus. I paced the floor all day, accomplishing nothing. But when she got off that bus smiling and excited, I knew we had made the right decision.” Parents of a 59-year old woman in the MCBDD program
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Transportation Services
Transportation to and from the school, day programs, and the senior and habilitation programs is available to any student or adult enrolled in all of the day programs provided by the MCBDD, as well as to individuals who work in the supportive employment program. Transportation is provided five days a week, Monday thru Friday, from 6 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Each year, transportation services are provided to approximately 386 individuals. Consisting of over 34 buses and 17 other vehicles, the Transportation Department fleet logs more than 2,050 miles per work day, 550,000 miles per year, and provides door to door services to passengers throughout Mahoning County. All MCBDD buses are equipped with hydraulic lifts to accommodate the nearly 112 passengers who use wheelchairs. The safety and comfort of MCBDD passengers are top priorities of the Transportation Department. Each bus is equipped with a two-way FM radio. The radios allow bus drivers and dispatchers instant contact in case of emergency, and the radios ensure accurate and timely service to all riders. All school buses undergo a rigid inspection each year by the Ohio State Highway Patrol. Each bus is Board-owned, and maintenance is performed at the Board’s bus maintenance facility located next to Leonard Kirtz School. To ensure the health and safety of passengers, the MCBDD employs a transportation aide for each bus. Transportation aides meet the needs of the riders while on route, so bus drivers may devote their full attention to operating the bus. All drivers must hold a Commercial Driver’s License, and all drivers and aides must maintain CPR and First Aid Certification. Transportation staff also attend in-service training sessions to continue to update their knowledge and skills. Drivers and aides are well-trained, caring professionals and are the “driving force” behind MCBDD programs. For additional information, contact Waymond Grace, Transportation Supervisor at 330-797-2837 or wgrace@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
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Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Adult Services
Spotlight On:
Saul Nasseri
There is no mistaking it. Saul Nasseri is on the move. His work, his accomplishments, his goaldriven efforts, and even his hobbies, are proof of that. Saul is a young man who began receiving services from the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities shortly after graduating from Boardman High School. Saul came to the Meshel MASCO adult day program having already participated in work experiences as part of the high school program. He quickly picked up on using his skills to work in a production group, assembling clamps, packaging and performing other general labor duties. Saul was considered to be a great candidate for the Employment First – Department of Developmental Disabilities partnership program. Administered through Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, services and supports are provided with a goal of competitive employment in the community. Saul has had assessments working as a stock helper at TJ Maxx and is currently learning the skills and duties of a dishwasher at a cafeteria. Saul was among the first group of participants in Opportunities at Work, a unique ten week job readiness and integration program offered by the Employment Services Program of the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities. As part of this program, he was involved in work experiences at a bakery, an office setting and the YMCA. Following completion of that program he became a crew member of the Lawn and Grounds crew, and performs landscaping and lawn work at the Board facilities. When he is not at work, Saul enjoys a variety of activities. He has participated in the area Color Runs and trains daily on an incline treadmill. He is a great swimmer and athlete. Saul has great fashion sense and enjoys choosing and purchasing his own ties. Saul has a very supportive family. His parents and brother have opened a world of opportunities for him. Saul has determination and a positive energy that is contagious. He will be a great employee for one lucky business!
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The Adult Services Program provides services and funds a wide range of habilitation and vocational services for adults with developmental disabilities who are 16 years of age and older. Services are provided in a variety of settings, including two day program sites, employment and training services, and programs for retirement and individuals with intensive medical needs. Habilitation activities are geared toward increasing the independence and quality of life for each individual. Activities may include training or assistance with the activities of daily living, social and recreational experiences, and functional academics. Ancillary services such as speech, physical and occupational therapy are available when needed. Social activities such as field trips, picnics, holiday parties and the annual softball game are popular. Evening activity nights with themes such as Elvis Night, Bike Night, Classic Car Night and the Halloween Party are the most popular social events. Volunteer help from parents, staff and caregivers is an important part of the success of these activities. Mahoning Adult Services Company (MASCO), Inc., a nonprofit company, operates as the business entity for the two day programs under contract with the MCBDD. MASCO, Inc. employs adults enrolled with the MCBDD. Approximately 355 individuals are utilizing the services provided by the Adult Services program at the Bev and Meshel programs located in Boardman. MASCO, Inc. employees engage in a variety of subcontract work procured from the local business community. Examples of production work include assembly, packaging and sorting. Staff provide supervision and assistance to the individuals employed at the adult day programs who are paid in accordance with the U.S. Department of Labor Standards for day program settings. Further information about the Adult Services Program may be obtained by contacting Toni Scurpa, Adult Services Director, at 330-797-2914 or tscurpa@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
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taff should be commended for their outstanding professional qualities and work ethic.” Survey response
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he day program that my son attends has been a blessing for me as well as for him. It is a place he can go to be with his peers and feel a sense of friendship. It is his workplace where the smallest task that he completes is a large achievement, which gives him a feeling of self-worth. When he is happy and content I am happy and content for him.”
Parent/guardian of an individual in the Adult Services Program
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“I
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
like being in my new home. I like my job and I like helping other people.” Individual in the Employment Services Program
Employment Services The Employment Ser vices Pro gram is available to individuals who have an interest in working in the community. Through agency partnerships, a variety of services and supports are available to individuals so they may achieve their desired vocational goals. Many individuals are currently working at sites throughout the community thanks to the MCBDD Employment Services Program. Individuals begin the employment process at the assessment and planning stage. During this phase, individuals choose the members of their planning team, develop goals, and
identify supports needed to reach their goals. MCBDD Employment Specialists use the planning team’s recommendations to develop a job that best suits each individual’s goals. Services are coordinated with other agencies that serve people with disabilities, such as the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities Agency (OOD). On the job training and coaching is also available to assure the success of the individuals in the program. The job coach’s responsibilities include the implementation of support strategies, direct instruction of job tasks and related behav-
ioral skills, developing friendships in the work environment, and documenting the individual’s progress. Upon completion of the training process, follow-along services are available to ensure the long term success of the individual working in the community. All individuals with developmental disabilities have the right, and should have the opportunity to become participating members of the community through employment. For information about MCBDD Employment Services, contact George Gabriel at 330-799-9035 or ggabriel@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
Provider Spotlight: Gallagher’s Lunch Bucket Gallagher’s Lunch Bucket was created by Golden String Inc., a MCBDD Community Provider, in collaboration with the Oak Hill Renaissance Center. Gallagher’s employs over 25 adults with disabilities through Golden String Inc. and the Purple Cat. The “Lunch Bucket” provides employees an opportunity to work in a full-fledged restaurant
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where the employees learn skills in cooking, baking, food prepping, and customer service. The employees participate in all vocational areas of running the restaurant. Gallagher’s Lunch Bucket is located in the lower lever of the Oak Hill Renaissance building (former Southside Hospital) 345 Oak Hill Ave. Youngstown, Ohio 44502. Light
breakfasts and lunches are served Monday thru Friday in the former cafeteria area of the building from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. Daily specials feature made-to-order sandwiches as well as soups, salads and desserts. For more information on Golden String Inc. and Gallagher’s Lunch Bucket visit www.goldenstringinc. org.
is job means everything to him. He loves to work and has much better awareness of activities going on around him.” Parent of an individual in the employment program.
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Spotlight On:
Diane Robinson
Diane Robinson has worked for MCBDD for many years as a Program Aide. She has worked in a number of MCBDD Adult Services sites since her high school graduation. Most recently she has worked at the Centre @ Javit Court. Diane has an excellent work ethic and when asked about the most rewarding and favorite parts of her job, she names each and every task that is assigned! Diane has done something truly remarkable this past year; she has gone beyond her comfort zone. In the past few months she has enrolled herself in swimming and computer classes and has started working to further develop her reading skills. Diane’s courage and dedication to improving herself reminds us all that learning is a lifelong journey. We admire Diane for this quality as well as her dedication her to family. Diane is most proud of her role in raising her 20 year old daughter, who has recently graduated from high school and found employment. Diane loves her life, traveling, her family, friends, and her job.
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Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Senior and Habilitation Program The Adult Services Senior and Habilitation Program is located at the Centre @ Javit Court and is geared to serve the individual needs of older adults with developmental disabilities or those in need of more intense medical care. The 21,000 square foot building features include wide hallways, indirect lighting, colored floor pathing, sky lights and large windows in all program areas. There are nine pod or program areas, four spacious changing rooms, large restrooms, a multi-sensory room, a kitchen and lunch room, a therapy pool, outdoor pavilions and a memory garden. Senior Program: The Senior Program is designed to serve the individual needs of older adults with developmental disabilities. This program was created because the need for services for older adults with developmental disabilities has consistently increased over the last several years. This day program emphasizes recreation, arts, leisure activities, and socialization for adults who are 55 and older, including
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hank you for caring for my son. I appreciate everything that is done for him.”
crafts, exercise, socialization, memory therapy, music, choice making and community outings. All services are based on an individual plan developed by an interdisciplinary team, in accordance with the individual’s choices, desires, and preferences. Habilitation Services: The Centre @ Javit Court’s Habilitation Services Program is designed to serve individuals with complex medical and physical needs. Most of the individuals in this program receive nursing services for seizure disorders, breathing difficulties and even issues with eating. Several individuals receive nutrition via a feeding tube and some require continuous oxygen for breathing. Individuals in this program require total assistance from staff to complete all daily needs in the areas of movement, eating, toileting, medical care and activities. Many persons in the Habilitation Program require the use of a
Survey response from a parent wheelchair for ambulation. Each individual spends time daily outside of their wheelchair for stretching, range of motion, relaxation and therapy. Staff utilizes adaptive rocking chairs, therapy tables, floor mats and bean bag chairs in order to accommodate this goal. Staff at the Centre utilizes one of the ten automatic or manual lifting devices to move individuals from their wheelchairs to the changing rooms or program areas. Another feature of the Habilitation Program is the therapy pool which is used for aquatic therapy by specially trained therapists. The Aquatics Program is designed to strengthen individuals in the water, so that they may receive land therapy in the future. Further information about The Centre @ Javit Court may be obtained by contacting Toni Scurpa, Adult Services Director at 330-797-2914 or tscurpa@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
Self-Advocacy Self-advocacy is about bringing people with developmental disabilities together to create a strong voice with others that will be heard enough to make a change. It’s about making legislators and communities aware of individuals’ needs and the needs of others. Self-advocacy involves people with developmental disabilities making decisions in all aspects of their life: having optimal health, choosing where they want to live, experiencing emotional well-being, selecting their own friends, becoming employable, and being a viable part of the community. People with developmental disabilities have the right to possess the necessary tools to succeed in life and to be given the opportunity to make a difference. MCBDD believes that people with developmental disabilities have the right be self-advocates. These rights include taking control of their lives to assert their own interests, to express creativity and needs, understand their rights and to be empowered to make decisions to the best of their abilities. Learning about and practicing peer advocacy People with developmental disabilities have the skills can enhance a person with developmental right to make their voices heard and the right to disabilities role and improve confidence to make decisions that affect an individual’s life. speak up and recognize that their voice matters.
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Saturday, October 24, 2015
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Community Services The mission of MCBDD Community Services is to support individuals in determining and choosing life goals and/or services; to aggressively work toward that attainment; to work with families, guardians and natural supports to access, provide and/or enlist whatever assistance or support is needed in any life area, including protective intervention; and to maintain the individual as the focus while coordinating services across multiple systems. Over 800 individuals are currently receiving case management services through Community Services. Service & Support Administrators are employed by the MCBDD and follow rules written by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities to provide a variety of services. Service & Support Administrators make sure that individuals with developmental disabilities receive the services they want and need to ensure a high quality of life.
Eligibility is determined after a series of questions are answered by or on behalf of the person applying for services. What services do Service & Support Administrators provide? • Information and Referral • Service Placement • Service Coordination • Crisis Intervention • Major Unusual Incident Investigation/Reporting • Service Monitoring If you or someone you know thinks they are eligible for MCBDD Community Support services, call Vince Paolucci at 330-799-2942 or vpaolucci@mahoningcountyoh. gov. If you have an emergency, call Help Hotline at 330-747-2696, and ask for the MCBDD Service & Support Administrator on call. Service & Support Administrators are on call 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
Self Determination and the Person-Centered Planning Process Self Determination is a framework that helps an individual with disabilities to design and receive needed services and supports. Individuals and their families meet and work with county board staff to develop an Individual Service Plan (ISP). Self Determination Means: • People have the freedom to choose and design the support they need to pursue the life they envision. • People have the freedom to plan their own life and to pursue things that are important to them with support. • People have the freedom to experience the same life opportunities as other people their age. • People enjoy the freedom of economic independence and security with opportunities to earn income. • Each person has authority over their own individual support budget. • People take responsibility for decisions in their own lives and for the support money allocated to them. Individual Service Plan (ISP): An individual service plan (ISP) is like a map. It helps the individual to navigate a path to success that they themselves help to design. The ISP contains goals for the individual to help them to become as independent as they would like to be in a particular life area. Supports are listed as well so that staff, family and friends know what services are needed and what assistance to provide without compromising the individual’s independence. An Individual Service Plan is unique for each individual and includes what he or she sees as important in reaching his/her life’s goals.
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Spotlight On:
Michelle Mills
From the minute one meets Michelle Mills her joy for life and enthusiasm are evident. Michelle takes great pride in being independent in both her social and vocational life style. Michelle works for MCBDD Adult Services in the Food Service Program at the Meshel MASCO location. She assists in the preparation, distribution, and purchase exchange for those individuals accessing items for meals and break time. Not only has Michelle excelled in the tasks performed, but she has engaged in positive social interactions with her peers and provided outstanding and friendly service to customers as well. Currently, she is in employment development at “That’s a Wrap” where her personality and ambition are evident as she continues to progress with her life’s goals and dreams. Michelle and her family have chosen the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities along with Siffrin, as resources in habilitation, vocational, social, and transportation support to assist Michelle in forging her own path. Michelle’s success and achievements are evident to her family, friends and fellow employees.
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Employment Locations MCBDD is grateful to the following businesses and organizations that provide employment opportunities for the individuals we serve: • AGC Glass • Carousel Center • Centre @ Javit Court • Coney Island Hot Dog Shoppe • Gia Russa • Giant Eagle, Canfield • Home Depot • Leonard Kirtz School • MASCO • MCBDD Meshel MASCO • MCBDD Bev MASCO • MCBDD Centre @ Javit Court • MCBDD Bus Garage • MCBDD Community Services • NEI Janitorial • Pine Industries • Pizza Hut • Plaza Donuts • Poland Medical Center • Ruby Tuesday’s • Sandwich Factory • Sparkle, Cornersburg • Stonebridge Restaurant • Subway, Canfield • That’s a Wrap • Sam’s Club Boardman • Wedgewood Pizza
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Provider Spotlight: Gateways to Better Living With locations throughout Mahoning County, Gateways to Better Living, Inc. offers services including group homes, respite care, waiver services, and housing management. Gateways Industries provides employment opportunities in the production of piece work. Utilizing person centered planning provides the opportunity to customize services based on each individuals’ personal goals. Gateways to Better Living and the individuals they serve also strive to be a valuable
part of the community through participation in volunteer activities. From St. Vincent De Paul to the Rescue Mission, our individuals give back and offer assistance with meals for those less fortunate. This helps our community and at the same time teaches our individuals a sense of self-fulfillment and empowerment. Gateways to Better Living also provides the opportunity for individuals to experience the arts and exercise programs including exposure to artsts, yoga, zumba,
Special Olympics and other enriching options to one’s life. Trips to Cleveland Browns and Scrappers games, the Gateway Clipper, and Kalahari are but a few of the fun outings individuals have enjoyed this year. In the coming year, Gateways to Better Living is excited to expand services into Trumbull county, in the residential and day program areas, where they plan to both continue and increase the opportunities offered to individuals to be valued members of the community.
Provider Spotlight: Turning Point Residential, Inc. The mission of Turning Point Residential, a contracted community provider of MCBDD, is to empower people with disabilities through advocacy, education and support. In Mahoning, Columbiana and Trumbull Counties, Turning Point offers Supported Living, Shared Living, Habilitation Services and Work Training, recently partnering with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities to offer Vocational Services to individuals who want a job in the community. Turning Point operates Crumbles Bakery which has expanded to three locations. Crumbles Bakery provides hands-on training and skill building for individuals with disabilities. Turning Points’ No Limits Alternative Cen-
ter offers adults with developmental disabilities, from Mahoning, Columbiana and Trumbull counties, the opportunity to learn job skills on their path to successful community employment. Once the skills are mastered, they provide job placement, resume building, application assistance, soft skills training and on-the-job training. All of our individuals are paid minimum wage for independently performed job tasks. No Limits Alternative Center employs maintenance and sanitation crews, clerical workers, food preparation staff, assistance at TJ Maxx and and Crumbles Bakery. As interest in community employment for adults with disabilities increases, Turning Point Residential Inc. has begun an employment curriculum named “Employment
For information about MCBDD Emp l oy ment S e r vic e s, cont a c t George Gabriel at 330-799-9035 or ggabriel@mahoningcountyoh.gov.
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101”. Groups of four to ten participate in a series of interactive five week classes that help participants develop skills in communication, enthusiasm and attitude, teamwork, networking, problem solving, critical thinking, professionalism, resume building, and interviewing designed to improve employability and confidence in the workforce. Turning Point believes that caring for someone is more important than “taking care of someone.” Turning Point focuses on individual strengths and interests, keying in on the truth that every goal in life is obtainable if you work towards it. For more information about the services offered by Turning Point Residential, please visit www.turningpointresidential.com or call 330-788-0669, ext. 116.
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Having Fun Through events at each of the program locations to outings in the community, MCBDD staff incorporates a number of different fun activities into programming for the individuals they serve. Special Events including: • American Idol Night at Meshel MASCO • Bike Night at Meshel MASCO • Easter Egg Hunt at the Leonard Kirtz School • Fall Carnival and Haunted Hallway at Leonard Kirtz School • Halloween Trick or Treat for LKS at the Centre • Library Night at Bev MASCO • Monthly Birthday Parties at the Centre • Pony Tails Petting Zoo • Red Hat Ladies Group at the Centre @ Javit Court • Softball Game • Summer picnic • Summer Olympics at Meshel MASCO with Bev MASCO and Gateways to Better Living • Valentine’s Day Dance • Yoga Classes
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Provider Spotlight: The Carousel Center Operated by RaeArc Industries, the mission of The Carousel Center is “to educate our individuals through leisure based activities throughout the community. We will strive to promote informative decision making, community participation, and self-sufficiency. We will help them turn their lives around with the support and involvement of family and friends.” Having recently celebrated their fifth anniversary, the Carousel Center serves over 50 individuals and strives for excellent service and provides care to best suit each individual’s needs. Through small groups, educational activities, and leisure activities, The Carousel Center creates the most individualized experience possible for individuals served. A certified coordinator plans a month-
ly recreation calendar and develops educational plans specific to individual needs. With the help of various agencies and businesses, we integrate our individuals into the community to enhance their learning experiences. We promote self-sufficiency and normalization ensuring our individuals achieve their maximum potential. Services offered include: habilitation and day programming, transportation, community involvement, Adult Basic Education (A.B.E.) classes, sensory room, arts and crafts, exercise, self help, language and mobility skills, self direction, economic self-sufficiency, on-call nurse, and residential care. For more information visit www. carouselcenter.net or call 330-7934080.
Outings include visits to: • Angels for Animals • Aquaponics at Choffin Career Center • Barnes and Noble • Bowling trips • Butler Art Museum • Canfield Fair • Craig Beach • Eastwood Mall Aquarium • Fellows Riverside Gardens • Four Seasons Flea Market • Green Team Visits for Recycling • Haus Fruit Farm • Home Depot • Ice Zone • Italian Festival • Mahoning Valley Scrappers game • Mahoning County Dog Pound • Mill Creek Park • Movies • OH WOW! Museum • Sam’s Club • Second Harvest Food Bank • Southern Park Mall • St. Patrick’s Day Parade • White House Fruit Farm • Youngstown Phantoms hockey game • Youngstown Playhouse • YSU Planetarium • Davis YMCA
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Community Activities The MCBDD has become more visible through public service oriented projects and engagement in activities designed for community integration. These activities included participation in the Canfield Fair, The Down Syndrome Association of the Valley Buddy Walk, volunteering at Angels for Animals, Second Harvest Food Bank and working with the Green Team and the Mahoning County Dog Pound. Staff and enrollees have participated with the United Way Day of Caring and volunteered at Fellows Riverside Gardens. The MCBDD also participated in the YMCA’s Community Cup competition.
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Provider Spotlight: The Purple Cat The Purple Cat was founded in 2003 to offer day-program alternatives for adults. Clients participate in a wide range of vocational functions, creative projects and classes that develop daily-living skills. The goal is to prompt each individual to achieve his or her potential. The Purple Cat motto is “Work hard, be kind and have fun.” The creative arts program develops talent in the areas of ceramics, painting, theater, music, drawing, writing, jewelry making, and sewing crafts. Purple Cat creations are handmade products by artists with disabilities. Proceeds are paid to all Purple Cat clients. With training and coaching, clients perform duties in agriculture, lawn care, snow removal, building maintenance,
Special Olympics The MCBDD supports and encourages participation in the Special Olympics program. The Special Olympics provide individuals with the opportunity to become active in the community and stay physically fit while participating in individual or team sports with their peers. Teaching teamwork, responsibility to others and promoting physical activity are all goals of this worldwide organization founded by the late Eunice Kennedy Shriver. This organization has operated with MCBDD for over 30 years and enables over 100 athletes to participate in the sport of their choice. The local organization, consisting of athletes, coaches and volunteers, hosts a variety of sporting competitions throughout the year including bowling, baseball, basketball, golf, swimming, track and field, and volleyball. The annual Mahoning County Invitational Track Meet is held at Austintown Fitch High School each June. Individuals from the Mahoning Valley also participate in the State Summer Games held in Columbus in late June. Participants are recognized at an annual banquet held in November. For more information, contact Paul Iden at 330797-3051.
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food service, animal care and office work. Individuals enjoy the satisfaction of receiving a paycheck for a job well done. Clients learn supplementary skills that benefit them at home, work and in the community. Healthy eating, exercise, pedestrian rules, reading and computer usage are skills that promote independence. The original site on Champion Street, in Youngstown, continues to serve clients. Purple Cat also occupies Farmer Casey’s Ranch and the Pearl Street Mission venue and operates Purple Cat Productions at the Youngstown Playhouse. Each offers unique environments and opportunities. Visit our website for more information www.bigpurplecat. com.
Saturday, October 24, 2015
“We love the staff.”
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
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Dedicated Staff
Survey response
One of the strengths of the Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities is the quality of its staff. The MCBDD staff is a highly dedicated, committed and specially trained group of people representing many professions. Staff members must meet certification or registration standards set by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and/or the Ohio Department of Education. Each professional also meets standards in his/her own particular field. Approximately 337 full and part-time and substitute staff members are employed by the MCBDD. The majority of the staff provide direct services to the children and adults being served by Board Programs. Despite their different roles, the one thing they all have in common is their commitment and dedication to improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities in Mahoning County.
think you do a great “Wejob!” Survey response
Individuals Served by Program Community Services...........................809 Transportation...................................386 Adult Services (ages 16+).....................355 TOTAL WAIVERS ADMINISTERED...............782 Family Support Services....................... 129 Employment Program...........................41 School Age Program (ages 6 – 22).....71
“T
hank you from the bottom of my heart.” Parent of a program participant
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Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Saturday, October 24, 2015
Mahoning County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Program and Service Locations
Board Office
4791 Woodridge Drive • Austintown, OH 44515 Phone: 330.797.2825 • Fax: 330.797.2843
Bev MASCO
825 Bev Road • Boardman, OH 44512 Phone: 330.797.2886 • Fax: 330.758.4236
Leonard Kirtz School
4801 Woodridge Drive • Austintown, OH 44515 Phone: 330.797.2847 • Fax: 330.797.2861
Meshel MASCO
160 Marwood Circle • Boardman, OH 44512 Phone: 330.797.2902 • Fax: 330.726.1522
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Transportation Department
4795 Woodridge Drive • Austintown, OH 44515 Phone: 330.797.2837 • Fax: 330.797.2929
Community Services
130 Javit Court • Austintown, OH 44515 Phone: 330.797.2925 • Fax: 330.799.2977
The Centre @ Javit Court
153 Javit Court • Austintown, OH 44515 Phone: 330.799.2120 • Fax: 330.799.2530
Thank you for your support! www.mahoningdd.org