January 2026


From the Executive Director




 

Dear Independence Alliance Supporters,


Happy New Year!

 

I am pleased to share that Chris Potoka has joined Independence Alliance as the Director of Art Programming. Chris will transition to overseeing the Art Beyond Boundaries Gallery upon Jymi Bolden’s retirement later this year.

 

This newly created role will encompass more than ensuring the daily operations and impact of the gallery, it will transform and expand our art programming through advocating for aspiring artists with disabilities, engaging diverse audiences, and developing relationships with community partners. Chris was chosen for this role based on his extensive professional experience both in social services and in the creative arts world. He is a creative and energetic visionary with a passion for people with disabilities. Feel free to contact Chris by email.

 

Stay tuned for upcoming events including recognizing Jymi Bolden, Gallery Director, for his service to the organization upon his retirement, and the 20-year anniversary of Art Beyond Boundaries.

 

As always, I welcome your input and suggestions either by email or by phone at 513-338-5100.

 

May the coming year be filled with adventures and opportunities!


Rob


Rob Festenstein

Executive Director



News Bits


Do you know that Independence Alliance is a disability-led organization, where at least 51% of our board and staff are individuals with disabilities, fostering peer-to-peer support and shared lived experience? We would love to have an opportunity to tell you more about our organization and how we empower people with disabilities to lead independent and inclusive lives in the community. If you are interested in scheduling a presentation or learning more about how our team empowers the community, you can email us to coordinate an in-person or virtual session. Meanwhile, we hope you will stay informed of our upcoming activities by following us on Facebook.    

 

Are you receiving services, or have you received services from CILO or Independence Alliance? We would love to hear how our services helped you reach your independent living goals. Your testimony is important to us as we look forward to our 50-year anniversary in 2027 and celebrating the lives that have been impacted by our organization over the years. Share your testimony here.


Are you a person living with a visual impairment or blindness?


Are you in need of assistive items such as mobility and navigation aids, computer access, reading aids, or daily living aids? Our Empowerment through Vision Project, funded by Greater Cincinnati Foundation, can obtain the items you need to increase your independence and enhance your quality of life. Complete and return the Referral Form, once your referral is approved you will be notified. Most items can be shipped to your home. Email us with questions or for more information.


Join the Independence Alliance Team


Independence Alliance is currently seeking a motivated and compassionate individual to join our team as a Support Services Specialist. We invite interested candidates to submit their resumes for consideration. Learn more about this position, qualifications, and how to apply.

Questions about any of our classes or services?

Please contact us by email.



Transition Services for Youth


Transition Services for College-Aged Youth

Accessibility & Brews will meet on Thursday, January 8th at High Grain Brewing Company - Brentwood, 9176 Winton Road, Cincinnati, 45231. In case of inclement weather, registrants will be notified.


Register here to be added to this group's email list and receive the link to join.

Winter Crisis Program


Income-eligible Ohioans can receive one-time assistance with their home energy bill through the Department of Development's Home Energy Assistance Winter Crisis Program.


The Winter Crisis Program assists Ohioans facing service disconnection, those who have already been disconnected, individuals needing to establish new service, and those required to pay for a service transfer. It also supports households with 25% or less of bulk fuel in their tank to maintain service. 



Learn more here.

Join Independence Alliance in congratulating the following members of our staff celebrating a work anniversary this month!


Amanda Hardcorn, Kentucky Housing Coordinator and Independent Living Specialist - 15 years


Debbie Moorehous, Director of Advancement - 12 years


Jenise Brassell, Independent Living Skills & Peer Support

Specialist - 3 years


Meet our Team


Independence Alliance will be closed in observance of Martin Luther King Jr. Day on Monday, January 19, 2026.


Do you plan on visiting Independence Alliance?


We maintain a fragrance-free environment; therefore, we ask that you avoid the use of fragranced products when visiting our office.


Please know we are available to discuss your need for accommodations or accessibility for your visit with us. Contact us!


Learn more here about how using your

Kroger Plus Card can support our organization! Once you have signed up there is nothing more to do other than use your Kroger Plus Card at the checkout!


Help us increase the number of households participating by signing up today!


(You will still sign up as supporting Center for Independent Living.)

Do you know someone that would like to receive our newsletter?

Email us!


This publication is available in an alternate format upon request.



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