June 2026

From the Executive Director


Dear Independence Alliance Supporters,


Nonprofit effectiveness relies on the critical alignment between your mission-driven goals and your operational objectives. Mission goals provide the "why" and long-term vision, while operational objectives provide the "how". Prioritizing tangible impact ensures our services and support directly align with our core purpose: to empower people with disabilities to lead independent and inclusive lives in the community.



Many times, we are given an opportunity to provide unique support to people with disabilities, for instance through the Empowerment through Vision award from Greater Cincinnati Foundation. Through this unique funding, Independence Alliance has provided technical assistance to over 20 consumers who are living with blindness or a visual impairment. 


“If you were not able to do this, I would not have been able to purchase glasses for myself. Your organization is a great asset to our community.”


“Thank you so much for this blessing…this is certainly a gift for my boy. We appreciate you all!"


If you are blind or visually impaired and in need of low vision aids for mobility and navigation, computer access, reading, or daily living, or if you need assistance with obtaining eyeglasses, please let us know. Through the Empowerment through Vision Project, Independence Alliance can provide low vision items at no cost to increase your independence and enhance your quality of life. The process is easy – just complete and return the Referral Form. You will be notified when approved; most items can be shipped directly to your home.

 

Email us with questions or get more information here.

 

 As always, I welcome your feedback and ideas. I can be reached at 513-338-5100 or by email.


Kind regards,


Rob


Rob Festenstein

Executive Director




June Trivia: Which of the following musicians does not have a visual disability?

1) Ray Charles 2) Marilyn Manson 3) Andrea Bocelli 4) Bono


The third person to respond here with the correct answer will receive a $10 gift card.

Congratulations to the recent graduates of the Living Well in the Community workshop! Completing a 10-week program focused on holistic, independent living is a milestone. We are pleased that this workshop assists individuals with disabilities to build the essential skills needed to thrive physically, intellectually, emotionally, spiritually, and socially.


Home Energy Solutions for Renters


Take advantage of renter-focused programs and solutions to keep your home energy efficient all summer long.


Explore Renter Solutions



Printable flyers for the following groups are available on our website:

Calendar - Independence Alliance

Accessibility & Brews will meet on Thursday, June 11th at

Tillie's Lounge, 4042 Hamilton Avenue, Cincinnati, OH 45223.


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

Ohio Olmstead Task Force (OTF) and Independence Alliance recently presented to over 40 stakeholders at the Coalition on Homelessness and Housing in Ohio Conference. The discussion centered on accessible, affordable housing with real world instructions on how you can be an advocate for better policies and more housing in our state.



View the slideshow here: www.bit.ly/DisabilityHousingOH26.

In photo: Jennifer Kucera, ODDC Chair and Dee Henry, Independence Alliance Disability Rights & Advocacy Specialist.

Employee Anniversaries


Join us in congratulating Lisa Beane, Kentucky Housing Coordinator, celebrating 12 years with Independence Alliance.

Join us in congratulating Anthony Jenkins, Art Program Specialist, celebrating 12 years with our art program, Art Beyond Boundaries.

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.


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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