A Word from our Superintendent | |
Welcome to our Spring Dreams Newsletter! As always, we wasted no time kicking off the new year.
We started our year strong with the 25th annual Polar Plunge, which welcomed over 100 plungers and supporters to Caesar Creek to raise money for Special Olympics. Many generous community members helped to raise funds, including the Warren County Wildcats, who raised over $4,000.
In March, we celebrated Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month with our annual Open House events, which welcomed local speakers to share their experiences with receiving services from WCBDD. We received a proclamation from Warren County Commissioner Shannon Jones in the afternoon session, and one from Warren County Probate and Juvenile Court Judge Joseph Kirby in the evening.
We would also like to extend our sincere gratitude to the many other elected officials and community members who supported and attended the event. Your presence and continued dedication to our agency truly make a difference.
We look forward to our upcoming events, including our accessible Egg Hunt and first annual Jeep Show. You can read more about all of these events below!
On a heavier note, we are both proud and saddened to announce the retirement of Records and Monitoring Specialist Carolyn Bogenschutz and Operations Director Pete Mason. We want to extend our heartfelt thanks to both of them for their years of dedication and hard work in furthering the agency's mission. Their contributions have had a lasting impact, and while we are sad to see them move on, we wish them all the best in their next chapters. They will truly be missed.
As always, if you need anything from us, please do not hesitate to reach out to your Service Coordinator, Early Childhood Primary Service Provider, Transition Coordinator, or call (513) 228-6400. In cases of emergencies, please call 1-800-800-6847. You can also check out our website at www.warrencountydd.org or our Facebook page. Thank you for your support of the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities!
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Stories of staying “Driven to Succeed” shared at WCBDD Open House
(Lebanon, OH) – A Centerville man shared his story of using cars, family, and God to fuel his determination at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) Open Houses on March 11, 2025.
WCBDD hosts two Open Houses each March to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM.) Established in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan, DDAM increases public awareness of the needs and potential of Americans with developmental disabilities and provides the encouragement and opportunities needed for them to lead productive lives to achieve their full potential.
WCBDD Superintendent Megan Manuel emceed the event and emphasized the importance of observing DDAM to foster “understanding, compassion, and advocacy.”
“It is essential to remember that behind each person is a story. A story filled with dreams, challenges, and incredible resilience,” Manuel said. “By sharing these stories, we break down barriers and foster a deeper appreciation for the diverse talents and perspectives that individuals with developmental disabilities bring to our community."
The event’s theme was “Driven to Succeed” and featured driving-themed decorations throughout the auditorium. The theme was inspired by the keynote speaker, Ross Kester, who finds inspiration from many aspects of his life, particularly his love for vehicles.
Kester has appreciated vehicles since he was child. He draws inspiration from cars in physical therapy by imagining himself pushing down on the gas or brake pedal while doing ankle stretches or picturing himself climbing into a vehicle while doing step exercises. While he draws inspiration for his workout routine from cars, he also incorporates "Reward Days." Every 20 days, if he stays consistent with his workouts, he rewards himself with a car-related outing.
With the support of his provider, Claire LaJoye, the pair presented Kester’s story in a Q&A format. Kester brought many objects to represent his passions, including his Bible, a basketball signed by Karl Malone, a bus grill given to him from Cardinal Buses, and a variety of vehicle-related shirts.
After presenting, Kester invited the audience to meet him and give him a fistbump.
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Warren County Commissioner Shannon Jones presented a proclamation recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month during the afternoon session, while Warren County Probate and Juvenile Court Judge Joseph Kirby presented the proclamation at the evening session.
Prior to presenting the proclamation, Kirby shared his experience with hiring people with disabilities at the courthouse, thanks, in part, to the recommendation of Manuel. Kirby said beyond the work these individuals contribute, they also provide an incredible amount of enthusiasm and positivity that the courthouse may otherwise lack.
“I think what we ought to do is kind of shift our mindset, instead of the disabilities of an individual, why don't we look at the abilities of the individual, see what they're able to do, see how they're able to plug into collaboration, and along with that, we understand what their boundaries are,” Kirby said. “We want to try and highlight their accomplishments, and we want to encourage other people, not just on our campus, but other organizations, to follow our lead, because it's been such a tremendous experience for us.”
The Open House sessions also included information about the WCBDD driving program. WCBDD partners with Capabilities Inc., to assist individuals with developmental disabilities with obtaining their driver’s license. Former students Ishika Sharma, Luke Marshall, and Mason McCart recorded a video to show at the Open House sessions to share how the program has changed their lives.
Marshall now drives himself to work, Special Olympics, and advocacy meetings. Sharma drives herself to work and social events, but also assists her family members with transportation. Not only does McCart drive himself to work, but he also operates vehicles within Kings Island as part of his job. These three personal stories represented the impact the driving program has on people to allow them to work and integrate into the community.
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The evening Open House session concluded with a performance by the Voices of Warren County Choir. Over 150 people attended the two open house events. WCBDD organized a raffle drawing, giving away several gift baskets and raising $963 for Warren County Special Olympics.
The Lebanon Key Club volunteered to decorate the event space, including brainstorming ideas, making decorations by hand, and decorating the auditorium the day before the event. The dedication of these students was critical in making this event a success.
The annual DDAM Open House event will return in 2026.
| | 11 people awarded at first annual Open House Award Ceremony | | |
(Lebanon, OH) – The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) hosted its first annual Open House Award Ceremony on March 11, 2025, to celebrate the achievements of local people with disabilities who receive services from WCBDD.
The ceremony, which took place during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, served as a meaningful occasion to honor the dedication, resilience, and accomplishments of Warren County residents. Award recipients were anonymously nominated for awards that highlighted personal growth and community building.
Click here to learn more about each award winner.
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Luke Marshall
The Team Player Award
| The Team Player Award honors a candidate who contributes positively to a group by demonstrating strengths in teamwork, collaboration, and support. Advocacy Coordinator Ellen Hudson presented the award to Luke Marshall for his work as president of the Voices Speaking Out (VSO) Self-Advocacy Group and Special Olympics. | | |
Mitchell Knight
The Ambassador of Kindness Award
| The Ambassador of Kindness Award honors a candidate with a positive and joyful demeanor who demonstrates compassion and kindness towards others. Mitchell Knight was awarded for believing in kindness and caring for others. | | |
Aaron Bowman
The Community Builder Award
| The Community Builder Award honors someone who actively volunteers and engages with their community to promote the visibility of people with developmental disabilities. Aaron Bowman was chosen for the award because of his work throughout the community, including being an active member of VSO, and raising $1,100 for the Special Olympics. | | |
Maegan Ward
The Independent Living Award
| The Independent Living Award was given to Maegan Ward for her many accomplishments toward reaching independence, including working full-time for 12 years, learning to drive, getting married, raising a child, and living independently. | | |
Levi Schwab Jr.
The Goal Crusher Award
| The Goal Crusher Award honors a candidate receiving Early Intervention services who has demonstrated immense progress in achieving a goal towards development. Levi Schwab Jr. was presented this award for his incredible resilience, determination, and growth. | | |
Rodney Smith
The Employment First Award
| Rodney Smith was honored with the Employment First Award for his dedicated work at the Heritage Club and Mane. | | |
Matthew Schulz
The Academic Achievement Award
| Matthew Schulz was honored with the Academic Achievement Award for his success at Wright State. He lives on campus independently, is part of the Astronomy Club, plays clarinet in the concert band, and completes courses with minimal supports. He was recently accepted into a PhD mathematics program at the University of Cincinnati. | | |
Anthony Hall
The Technology Empowerment Award
| The Technology Empowerment Award honors someone who has successfully enhanced their independence through use of assistive technology and remote supports. Anthony Hall was honored with this award for embracing assistive technology to live independently. | | |
Joseph Lamantia
The Jamie Miles "Make It So" Award
| The Jamie Miles Make It So Award honors a candidate who uses their self-determination and drive to achieve the things they deem most important. The award was presented to Joseph Lamantia for his incredible strength in overcoming barriers. In the past, his social anxiety kept him from leaving the house. Today, Lamantia has a job, takes art classes, attends WCBDD events, and more. | | |
David Darby
The Breaking Barriers Award
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Samuel Nauroth
The Breaking Barriers Award
| | The Breaking Barriers Award was the only award to have two winners. Samuel Nauroth and David Darby were nominated together for the award for their courage in embracing independence and growth. | |
Polar Plunge brings community together, raises money for Special Olympics
(Lebanon, OH) - Local businesses, law enforcement, Special Olympics athletes, Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) employees, and other community members joined forces to raise funds for the 25th Special Olympics Polar Plunge at the Caesar Creek beach on Saturday, Feb. 1, 2025.
The Polar Plunge is an annual event that challenges community members to jump into frigid waters in support of Ohio’s 20,000 Special Olympics athletes. The Polar Plunge was founded by officers who belong to the Law Enforcement Torch Run (LETR) for Special Olympics.
All proceeds from the Polar Plunge benefit Special Olympics Ohio’s mission to provide free athletic opportunities for Ohioans with disabilities.
WCBDD is especially proud to be involved in the Polar Plunge in celebration of our Superintendent, Megan Manuel, who is also the Chair of Special Olympics Ohio Board.
“It was great to see so many community members come to Caesar Creek to support this wonderful organization and the athletes,” Manuel said. “It is heart-warming that they are willing to come out and take the icy plunge in the name of inclusion!”
Participants flaunted a strange assortment of attire, with some wearing a weather-appropriate winter jacket, others wearing swimsuits, and many sporting elaborate costumes. Regardless of attire, over 100 plungers and supporters visited Caesar Creek on the frigid day to support Special Olympics Ohio.
Special Olympics basketball and floor hockey athlete Kelley Castle kicked-off the event by carrying the LETR torch and reciting the athlete's oath. Following this proud moment, the festivities continued with a celebration of the teams and their efforts.
The top fundraising team was the Warren County Wildcats, raising $4,307. WCBDD employees and Wildcats team members Rhonda Schutte and Robin Derickson dressed as milk and cookies, respectively, in preparation for, “The Big Dunk.” The team brought milk and cookies to share, along with a sign reading, “Greg in Texas paid big $ for these pictures!” to celebrate a top Texas-based donor.
Aaron Bowman was one of the top fundraisers for the Wildcats. He works at Coffee Caravan and participates in several Special Olympics sports, including basketball, swimming, and bowling. He utilized his community connections to spread the word about donating to the 2025 Polar Plunge event.
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Bowman said despite the freezing temperatures, his third year at Polar Plunge was, “fun, and a lot of people want to come and see us.” He plunged with many of his fellow athletes, along with former WCBDD board member and current Warren County Sheriff Barry Riley.
Matt McFarland, the Vice President of Member Service at MyUSA Credit Union, celebrated his fifth Polar Plunge by being honored as the top individual fundraiser, raising $2,479 for Special Olympics Ohio. McFarland, who was adorning a Speedo, celebrated his achievement with an attention-grabbing dance.
Kennon Coleman represented the Ohio Law Enforcement Torch Run at the Polar Plunge, helping to organize and fundraise for the event. Before the Plunge, Coleman completed the 24-hour Super Plunge where he plunged into cold water every hour, on the hour, for 24-hours straight. The act raised over $10,000, in addition to the funds raised at the Polar Plunge.
A costume contest highlighted the creativity of the participants. Gandalf from Lord of the Rings, Superman and Wonder Woman, and several large aliens visited the event, but ultimately, the Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles took home the prize for best costumes.
Although each of these individuals and teams come from different backgrounds, all gathered at Caesar Creek to advocate and fundraise $26,120 for Special Olympics Ohio.
The hours before the event were spent clearing the ice from the creek to prepare for the plungers. Participants felt the cold air intensify as they walked toward the creek, most already shivering before entering the icy waters.
Participants took turns running into the creek. Many were holding hands, rooting each other on, and throwing their hands in the air to celebrate the accomplishment. A brave few dove headfirst into the water.
The crowd collectively cheered everyone on, took photos of their friends and family members, high-fived participants as they exited the water, and had towels ready to warm-up the plungers. The crowd was particularly cheerful for the children who had the courage to take on the Polar Plunge.
Director of the Department of Public Safety Andy Wilson visited the event to send off the plungers into the creek.
“As I look at that lake, when I see that ice out on the lake, I’m thinking to myself, ‘Who does this, man!?,’” Wilson said. “It’s a group of people who care more about others than themselves. It’s a group of people who care more about an amazing cause than some temporary discomfort.”
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Illusionist creates wonder and finds connection at WCBDD
(Lynchburg, OH) — Illusionist Jake Lindsey, 28, spends every waking moment practicing and performing magic tricks. He aims to create the “wow factor,”- the sense of awe and amazement that his illusions inspire.
Watching the crowd of individuals served by the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD), it’s clear the wow factor isn’t just a catchphrase. As Lindsey performs, the captivated audience gasps and applauds while he shows off his rare skillset.
He knows hundreds of tricks, but performs about 20 per show. From card tricks to making objects levitate, Lindsey knows how to keep a crowd entertained. His shows also prove to be the perfect atmosphere to show off his quick wit, keeping the audience on their toes and occasionally improvising when the trick doesn’t go as planned.
Rhonda Schutte, WCBDD Community Integration Coordinator, said Lindsey brings his authenticity and professionalism to every performance at WCBDD. She said the audience looks forward to every engaging and heartfelt show.
“He’s improved tremendously. From his first show to now, he’s rehearsed, and he goes back and really tries to look at his videotape to see how to improve,” Schutte said. “He takes his performance very seriously.”
Although the young illusionist has performed at festivals, birthday parties, churches, schools, and even a funeral, he said he feels at home performing in front of individuals served by WCBDD because of his shared experience with disability.
At 10 years old, Lindsey started practicing magic tricks to help with the impacts of his disability. His hands were stiff, and he had to move more to improve his mobility. He received a deck of cards to practice tricks with, and he never put them back down.
He performed his first trick 18 years ago, his first public show 17 years ago, and his first stage show two years ago. His reach has grown significantly in recent years, performing about 300 shows in 2024.
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He stages each show independently, only needing transportation to and from the gig. He organizes each performance, practices the tricks, sets up the stage, and creates the background music. Each show is curated to be original and unique.
“If it’s the same audience, I don’t want them seeing the same thing, because they’re expecting what’s going to happen,” Lindsey said.
Although he typically doesn’t disclose his disability during shows, he said he likes to be open at WCBDD shows because he recognizes that he’s in an accepting environment. He has performed four times in Warren County and plans to continue performing whenever possible.
His magic has helped him in ways he’s never imagined, including becoming better at socializing and communicating. He describes himself as shy and anxious off stage, but he gains confidence while performing, transforming into an over-the-top performer. By the time the show is over, he is warmed up to speak with audience members and take pictures with excited guests.
Direct Support Provider Ciera Balkema began working with Lindsey last year. She said Lindsey is constantly practicing magic and sharing his skills in the community. During shows, she said he is an expert at thinking on his feet and improvising when needed.
“With your disability, [magic] gets you out into the world, puts you in new situations. You get to think on your feet and be independent,” Balkema said. “A lot of people know who [Lindsey is]. A lot of people love him, and love who he is and his shows because he’s just such a genuine, kind-hearted person, and that’s hard to come by.”
Contact Jake Lindsey at (513) 519-8220 or jakeroblindsey@gmail.com.
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Carolyn Bogenschutz retires from WCBDD
(Lebanon, OH) – After almost 20 years of working at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD), Records and Monitoring Specialist Carolyn Bogenschutz has started her hard-earned retirement.
Bogenschutz spent 30 years of her career working in retail administration. A career change in 2005 led Bogenschutz to WCBDD, working in a field completely new to her. Her career at the agency was built on helping those around her and working beyond her job requirements to make a meaningful contribution to the agency.
In her early years at the agency, Bogenschutz worked as a receptionist and spent many hours waiting for the phone to ring, she laughed. While seeking out opportunities to learn more about the agency, she began “a bit of meddling in the Operations division.” Operations Director Pete Mason described Bogenschutz as quiet and organized when he first started working with her—traits he described as providing the “perfect balance” for the division’s needs.
“Over time, however, we were able to break through and get to know her and discovered what a great and fun person she was to work with,” Mason said. “She was a tremendous help in Operations, and we were sad when she went on to bigger and better things at the Agency, but glad that other Divisions got to work with her as well.”
A few years later, Bogenschutz earned a new role as the Early Intervention (EI) Secretary. She once again underwent an incredibly intense learning experience, meeting many families served by WCBDD and learning the art of record-keeping.
Although Bogenschutz worked in the EI division, she made a significant impact across the agency by consistently going above and beyond her job duties. She worked alongside her colleagues to develop agency events, such as Breakfast with Santa (now known as Jinglebell Rock Out), Things That Go!, the Egg Hunt, and the Fall Festival. Known for her positive demeanor and willingness to help, Carolyn was always the first to offer support to those in need—even pruning the rose bushes at the Milo H. Banta Center.
“During my time with WCBDD, I truly believe that everyone brings something to the table in what they contribute to make this a great agency and how they help to empower the individuals we are fortunate to serve,” Bogenschutz said.
She transitioned to her position as a records and monitoring specialist in 2022. She described the job as a system of checks and balances where she recorded, reviewed, and resolved information entered into Brittco for accuracy.
Early Childhood Manager Kelly Brooks has worked with Bogenschutz for 14 years. Brooks said Bogenschutz assisted her greatly in records monitoring and compliance.
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“She is awesome at her job because she has a great work ethic, follows through, and looks for potential ways we can continue to improve. We have developed a great system for working together and getting so many things done throughout the years,” Brooks said. “She is always willing to go above and beyond. Carolyn always has a listening ear and helpful hand for everyone.”
In addition to her role changes within the agency, she has witnessed numerous transformations, including moves to different office locations, the separation of WCBDD from Production Services Unlimited (PSU), the agency’s name change in 2009, and significant improvements in the resources and services provided.
“[Working here] made me more appreciative of services that are available. I grew up in a different era, back when it was different and school systems were different,” Bogenschutz said. “How far the agency has come…That's one of the most humbling experiences.”
She has seen many coworkers come and go over the years, while just as many have stayed, allowing her to develop lasting relationships and watch co-workers grow into their roles at WCBDD.
Each year, the annual WCBDD In-Service event celebrates staff members who have made a significant contribution to the agency. On Oct. 23, 2024, Bogenschutz was awarded the Superintendent award. Superintendent Megan Manuel said Bogenschutz deserved the award for being the “go-to person who people can always trust to come through for them.”
“She is always willing to assist anyone who needs it, no matter the task and no matter when you need it. She has moved around to a couple of different divisions while working here, and she devotes her time and attention to assist that division in accomplishing whatever they need. She takes the lead on tasks that need a leader, she trains others on how to do tasks, and she jumps in to help when someone needs help,” Manuel said. “She is an asset to our agency, the Early Intervention program, and she will be missed when she retires.”
After she was awarded, the crowd of co-workers whooped and cheered. Everyone was in agreement that no one deserves the honor more than Bogenschutz. She accepted the award with a hug from Manuel and Human Resources Director Bill Caplinger—the trio among the many at WCBDD who have known each other for over 20 years.
In her retirement, Bogenschutz plans to spend time with her husband of 40 years, travel, and learn a new routine. She will be deeply missed by the agency and by families served by WCBDD.
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Egg Hunt
Saturday, April 12
1:30 to 2:30 p.m.
Miracle League Field
1605 S. Main St., Springboro
| The event welcomes children ages 17 and under with developmental disabilities, as well as their siblings. Arts and crafts will be available to participants starting at 1:30 p.m., and visitors are invited to explore the accessible playground at the Miracle League Field. The Egg Hunt will commence promptly at 2 p.m. | | |
Trek Around The Clock
Friday, April 25 at 5 p.m. to Saturday, April 26 at 5 p.m.
Countryside YMCA
1699 Deerfield Rd., Lebanon
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Trek Around the Clock is a 24-hour hiking fundraiser hosted by Luke5Adventures where every step you take makes a difference! This 24-hour hiking fundraiser consists of 2-mile loops on the Countryside YMCA trails.
WCBDD will have a special 2-hour-long celebration from 6 to 8 p.m. on Friday, April 25.
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First Annual Jeep Show
Saturday, May 3
11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Warren C. Young Center
801 Drake Rd., Lebanon
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The Jeep show will be free for attendees and feature a variety of Jeeps and other vehicles.
Participants and attendees can also look forward to raffle baskets, food trucks, vendors, and a DJ.
This event will raise funds for the annual WCBDD Kings Island Day.
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Interested in more WCBDD events? | |
Check out our WCBDD event guide!
This guide includes everything you need to know about our annual events, including:
- The Polar Plunge
- Open House
- Egg Hunt
- Special Olympics Summer Games
- Things That Go!
- Family Fun Day
- Trunk-or-Treat
- And more!
Read the full guide here.
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The Early Childhood Team at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) provides support and services to families and their children under age six who are enrolled in services through WCBDD. We provide Early Intervention services, socialization events, parent/caregiver educational opportunities, and support education for the community.
Early Childhood Programs are a part of the Community Resources Division. Early Intervention (EI) services make up the largest portion of Early Childhood services we provide. The WCBDD collaborates with the Warren County Educational Service Center (WCESC) to provide an impartial evaluation and/or assessment of strengths and needs for all children referred to Warren County EI or “Part C” services under The Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA.) The team also works together to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) for the child and family.
WCBDD is the main provider of EI services for Warren County, providing service and/or support to approximately 400 children and families per month. EI services provided by WCBDD include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Speech Therapy, and Special Instruction, which is delivered by a Developmental Specialist. Team members can serve as Primary Service Providers (PSP) or Secondary Service Providers (SSP) to the child and family or as part of the consultative team. All specialized services offered by the WCBDD are delivered in environments located in the family’s typical daily routines. The IFSP team selects these everyday locations at the time of IFSP development. The providers utilize methods of coaching with the family and caregivers to build the capacity of the family to support the child during everyday life.
We would like to share our new Welcome to Early Intervention Newsletter that we have recently launched to share with newly enrolled families. It contains useful information about our services and processes for anyone wanting to know more. Click here to check out the newsletter.
We look forward to providing your family with more services and opportunities throughout 2025. For any questions or additional information regarding Early Childhood Services, please contact:
Kelly Brooks
Early Childhood Manager
Kelly.brooks@warrencountydd.org or 513-228-6520
OR
Maria Froendhoff
Early Childhood Manager
Maria.froendhoff@warrencountydd.org or 513-228-6462
Check out this quarter’s Early Childhood highlights below!
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Evelyn with her Primary Service Provider-Physical Therapist, Jenny. | | |
Goal-Crushing News!
Evelyn started in Early Intervention when she was about 2 years old and a very new independent walker. Although happy and eager to play, Evelyn was a bit intimidated engaging with other children during outings at the park and lacked confidence in her motor abilities.
Using a patient, play-based and supportive approach during our home and community visits with mom and dad, we saw an amazing transformation in Evelyn's mastery of important motor milestones and overall self-confidence. With this, came a greater willingness to try new and more challenging motor skills and an ability to recover quickly if she struggled with a task.
By the time Evelyn turned 3, she eagerly engaged with both familiar and unfamiliar peers, showed excitement about interacting with others, and confidently tackled challenging motor activities. She demonstrates the powerful impact of the strategies mom and dad practiced with Evelyn during their daily routines. Evelyn and family exited Early Intervention on her third birthday and she will be moving on to preschool this fall!
Way to go, Evelyn and family!
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We are excited to offer playgroups for children enrolled in WCBDD services ages birth to 3 and their parent/ caregiver. During the 60-minute group, parents/ caregivers and their children have the opportunity to connect with one another while participating in a semi-structured playgroup that includes:
- Outside play
- Story time
- Singing
- Crafts
These sessions are led by WCBDD Developmental Specialists, Therapists, and Advocacy Coordinator. The sessions currently planned for 2025 are as follows:
• April 29th through June 10th (Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m.)
• July 15th – August 19th (Tuesdays-9:30a-10:30a)
• September 16th through November 4th (Tuesdays from 9:30 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. OR 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.)
Registration is CLOSED.
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We are excited to share that Early Childhood Open Play will return in 2025! Please join us for Early Childhood Open Playtime on our playground (indoor classroom may be used depending on weather.) Families of children birth to age 6 enrolled in WCBDD services are welcome to attend. Siblings aged 6 and under are also welcome. Registration is not required but is helpful. These sessions are led by WCBDD Developmental Specialists, Therapists, and Advocacy Coordinator. The sessions currently planned for 2025 are as follows:
• April 29th through June 10th (Tuesdays from 10:45 a.m. to 11:45 a.m.)
• July 15th through August 19th (Tuesdays from 10:45 a.m. – 11:45 a.m.)
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Virtual Toileting Training
Thursday, May 15 from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m.
This 90-minute virtual workshop presented by Envision will provide an in-depth look at the multiple components involved in assessing toileting readiness, determining necessary preparations and adaptations, and successful implementation. The virtual workshop will focus on six main areas that work together to promote increased toileting skills:
- Conceptual understanding
- Readiness
- Consistency
- Motivation
- Addressing "red flag" concerns
- Adaptations
The virtual workshop is open to parents/caregivers of children enrolled in Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities services. This is brought to you through a contract with Envision.
Save the date and watch your emails and social media for registration!
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Storytime Strategies
Come out to meet your librarian, enjoy a story time, and learn strategies to help increase your child’s participation! We are so happy to partner with the Franklin/Springboro Library to bring you a private event to help you and your child get the most out of story time. We hope this event will encourage you to enjoy storytime and empower you to continue utilizing your local library as an amazing resource for you and your child! We are excited to see you on:
Thursday, May 29 from 9:30 to 10:30 a.m. at the Springboro Library on Park Lane.
Save the date and watch your emails and social media for registration!
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Friday Friends at the Park
Last summer, we launched a new opportunity for families to get out in our community and connect. We are happy to announce Friday Friends at the Park is back! Join your Early Childhood Team Members at the park to enjoy the sunshine and get connected with other families! This event is for families of enrolled children birth to age 6.
The first Friday Friends at the Park for 2025 will be from
10 a.m. to 11:30 a.m. on May 2, 2025.
Our first location will be:
Pine Hills Lake Park
211 Kings Mills Rd.
Mason, OH 45040
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Resource Corner
Here are a few websites and resources we encourage you to check out!
Ohio Early Intervention - Information about Ohio’s Early Intervention System.
Ohio Department of Children and Youth - Ohio’s Early Childhood Programs and Services for Children and Families.
Zero to Three - Information and Resources on Child Development from birth to age three.
Imagination Library – Sign up to have free children’s books delivered to your home every month.
OCALI - Information and resources to inspire change and promote access to opportunities for people with disabilities.
Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities - The Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD) is a statewide nonprofit organization that serves families of infants, toddlers, children and youth with disabilities in Ohio, educators, and agencies who provide services to them.
Ohio Department of Education and Workforce/Special Education – The Ohio Department of Education and Workforce is a diverse team of passionate, education-focused professionals responsible for overseeing and enhancing the quality of education for each of Ohio’s 1.7 million students.
Pause for Parents, Play for Kids – Pause for Parents, Play for Kids is a 501c3 organization providing rest, support, connection, and fun to special needs kids and their families.
Warren County Ohio, Libraries – Link to list of all Warren County Public Libraries.
Warren County Ohio, Parks - Website for the Warren County Park District and all the many places to get out and experience nature.
Click here to download quick resources for Early Childhood-friendly activities.
| | WCBDD hosted a Pancake and Valentine's Day Movie Night on Feb. 8, 2025. Attendees chose to watch "Anyone But You." | The Wildcats basketball team and cheerleaders celebrated the end of the season with a party on March 14, 2025. | | Southwest Church in Springboro hosted its first Night to Shine event on February 7, 2025. | The Voices Speaking Out Self-Advocacy group visited the Ohio Statehouse to advocate for the rights and well-being of individuals with developmental disabilities on March 4, 2025. | | | | |
