BLOGS

The Cambridge Dictionary definition of synergy is “the combined power of a group of things when they are working together is greater than the total power achieved by each working separately.” Simply put – there is power together! The 2023 Ohio Synergy Conference was an event of epic proportions. Over 800 attendees participated in motivational sessions where connections and education were at the forefront. Erin O’Malley was the keynote speaker who spoke about unlocking the pow

In 1977, the residents of this county graciously approved the first tax levy to financially support services to people with developmental disabilities. At that time, the Board of DD offered two services, Marimor School and Marimor Industries. These programs began as a grassroots effort by parents to obtain services for their children, who had been shut away or ignored by society. In the past 44 years, these programs have served thousands of individuals and families. Since the

We had a great crowd to help us celebrate DD awareness month, our 2021 accomplishments, the many partners we have in the community and our 2022 award winners. Thank you to Brad Taylor for joining us to kick the event off with an invocation. Thank you to our Board of DD employees who made the event possible. And thank you to our 6 board members who were able to attend: President Tom Fleming, Vice President Bob McPheron, Secretary Phyllis Montrose, Chrissy Hood, Chad King and T

When you hear the word “helmet” what comes to mind? I think of the helmet that children and adults use when riding a bike – or maybe even a motorcycle. It’s something worn to protect your head in case of an accident, right? But what about when a baby is wearing a helmet? Cranial molding helmets*, or cranial bands, are an approved, FDA treatment for shaping a baby’s head after a flat spot has formed. Since helmets are used while the head is still soft, it does not squish or sq

These welcoming remarks were made by Superintendent Theresa Schnipke at the Grand Opening and Dedication of the Marimor Legacy Park & Playground on October 25, 2021. Good morning and welcome to a celebration we could not wait to have. We made it – although some days I wondered. We even had the challenge of almost 4 inches of rain to celebrate this grand opening. However, we have the absolute best staff who went into Plan B mode at 5:00 a.m. this morning. Thank you to everyone

In 1977, the residents of this county graciously approved the first tax levy to financially support services to people with developmental disabilities. At that time, the Board of DD offered two services, Marimor School and Marimor Industries. These programs began as a grassroots effort by parents to obtain services for their children, who had been shut away or ignored by society. In the past 44 years, these programs have served thousands of individuals and families. Since the

In 1987, President Ronald Reagan designated March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Since that time, people with developmental disabilities have strived to bring awareness and acceptance to the public while celebrating diversity. Most people know someone with a disability, but do they understand that the needs, wants and personal experiences are very similar to their own? The Allen County Board of DD promotes self-advocacy and hosts a group of self-advocates that

My husband, Nick, and I reside in Delphos. We have four little girls, Madelynn, Lillian, Hazel, and Aubreigh, and a dog named Letti. Recently, in our surrounding communities, we have been involved in search efforts for two children who wandered off and were missing – both of whom had autism. This really hit home for us, as we have a daughter who doesn’t speak and has autism; she does not understand the dangers of wandering off. These tragedies have opened our eyes to how fast

Every December, Lima Rotarians host a Christmas party for children with special needs. And get this – it’s been happening since 1917 . For more than 100 years, the Lima Rotary Special Needs Christmas Party has been celebrating children with disabilities, giving them a unique holiday experience. The party has certainly evolved since 1917, and today it includes entertainment, food, a visit with Santa Claus, and a personalized gift for each child. Esther Baldridge has been invo