With our current financial state, it is important for all of us to be creative and find solutions that help move those we serve forward while ensuring fiscal responsibility. I am proud to confidently say that we are doing that and I thank each of you for going the extra mile, reaching out to community partners, and finding ways to make a better Marion by helping those we serve reach their goals.
We have lots of exciting examples of external support to help us help those we serve while moving them forward. Here are a few examples.
Project STIR (Steps Toward Independence and Responsibility)
We have been awarded scholarships to send 13 self-advocates and their allies to the Project STIR Training at the end of October. I’m challenging our team to be sure that not one scholarship is left unused. This is a great opportunity that will provide those served and their ally the tools they need to advocate for themselves, to connect with others, and gain valuable leadership skills. Registration deadline is October 5th to attend the training October 29th– 31st. Connect with Tabitha (710-375-6185) for registration details and more information on this great opportunity.
Technology Grant through the COG
Nancy Richards helped write a grant to secure funds for remote and assistive technology. In collaboration with the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, The Ohio State University Nisonger Center awarded eight $20,000 grants to Ohio County Boards of Developmental Disabilities and Councils of Governments to support initiatives to expand remote support availability in Ohio.
The ongoing workforce crisis often leaves County Boards of DD and providers without sufficient staff to fill vacant positions. As a “Technology First” state, these grants offer to advance this mandate by harnessing the benefits of technology to mitigate the crisis and promote independence among individuals with developmental disabilities.
This is great news and will help us work with providers to find solutions that garner independence and technology.
Housing Funds Available
Housing continues to be an issue for those we serve. It is expensive for those on a fixed income making options minimal. We are thrilled to be part of a housing initiative–Marion Metro Housing has received 19 housing vouchers from a grant for people with developmental disabilities between the ages of 18 and 62. They do not need to be the head of household like typical Section 8 vouchers. This opportunity comes on a first-come-first-serve basis for Marion and Wyandot County, so please work hard to use these resources to help those served gain housing options that work for them. To learn more about this opportunity and seek guidance, contact Julie (740) 375-6138 or visit http://marionmha.org.
Thank you for your great work.
Cheryl A. Plaster, Superintendent
Eddie can do it (and does)