From the Executive Director

Dear Independence Alliance Supporters,

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and I am pleased to take this opportunity to highlight the importance of inclusion of people with developmental disabilities.

Inclusion Is a Community Responsibility

Developmental disabilities affect millions of individuals across our nation and inclusion does not happen by accident. It requires intentional choices—how we design our workplaces, how we communicate, and how we create opportunities for participation.

Visibility Matters

Representation in media, workplaces, leadership roles, and community spaces helps break down stereotypes. When people with developmental disabilities are visible, valued, and heard, it shifts public perception and strengthens community belonging.

Employment Equity Remains a Priority

Many adults with developmental disabilities want to work but face significant barriers such as inaccessible hiring processes, limited accommodations, or misconceptions about capability. Expanding employment opportunities benefits everyone—organizations gain dedicated talent, and individuals gain independence and purpose.

Support Systems Are Essential

Families, caregivers, educators, and service providers play a crucial role in helping individuals thrive. Strengthening these support networks ensures that people with developmental disabilities have access to the resources they need to live full, self-directed lives.

I encourage you to think about ways that you can be an advocate for inclusion in our communities. In an ideal, inclusive world, people with developmental disabilities would be naturally and fully integrated into all aspects of community life — work, education, and social activities—without needing special advocacy or designation.

As always, I enjoy hearing from you. Feel free to contact me at 513-338-5100 or by email.

Kind regards,

Rob

Rob Festenstein

Executive Director



Trivia: What is the only nation to have a Permanent Representative to the UN General Assembly who is a person with a disability? The THIRD person to respond here with the correct answer will receive a $10 gift card.

Welcome to Mike Moroski!

Independence Alliance is pleased to announce that Mike Moroski has joined our team as the Support Services Specialist. He will work with the Ohio Permanent Supportive Housing Program and assist people with disabilities to attain their independent living goals.

Mike has over 25 years of experience in the nonprofit and education sectors and noted that while policy and politics are important, he was motivated by a desire to return to working directly with people.

“I have long admired the work of Independence Alliance. I am excited to learn, grow, and do my best to help people with disabilities navigate complicated systems so that they may live their lives with meaning and joy.”

Email Mike and welcome him to Independence Alliance.

Welcome New Board Members

Welcome to Bonita Moore! Bonita is a self-advocate with aspirations of someday working in the criminal justice system. She is delighted to be a board member and have an opportunity to give back to her community.

Welcome to David Siders! David is currently the Civic Engagement Coordinator for the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library and has collaborated with Independence Alliance on several projects. He has a deep commitment to inclusion for all people and advocates to end stigma towards people with disabilities.

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To see the roster of current board members, click here.

Independence Alliance Advisory Council

We are seeking people to serve on our Advisory Council to help us learn how we can best serve people with disabilities. An initial one-hour, in-person advisory council meeting is scheduled for Monday, April 27, beginning at 5:30pm. This is an opportunity to share your input on how we can effectively serve the community through peer groups, events, and services. If you are a person with a disability and interested in participating, email Debbie.

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 aids, 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, you will be notified when your request is approved. Most items can be shipped to your home. Email us with questions or for more information. More information here.