July 2026

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is excited to congratulate some of our 2026 graduates who will be moving on to higher education or employment.

Zach Christmas works at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities doing car safety checks, pony mail, shredding, copying, and other tasks needed. After graduating from Mason High School, Zach plans to attend Pathways to Employment at the Blue Ash campus.

Westley Long is a graduating senior from Franklin High School. He plans to get a job after graduation while he works toward earning a driver's license. Later on, he plans to become a train engineer.

Habtamu “Tommy” Romano is celebrating his graduation from Kings High School. After graduation, Tommy will be attending Pathways to Employment at the Blue Ash campus.

Michael Yeamans is graduating from Sinclair Community College with a focus in cybersecurity. He is currently working as an Ohio Tech Ambassador and will later get an I.T./Cybersecurity job. He wants to eventually start his own cybersecurity company and employ individuals who have developmental disabilities.

Congratulations to all 2026 graduates!

Meet the newest Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities board member Aaron Marcelli

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is pleased to welcome Aaron Marcelli, 41, of Mason, as its newest board member.



Marcelli was born and raised in Canton, Ohio, and spent the last 20 years living in northwest Georgia. Marcelli and his wife, Katy, share four children, ages 11, 9, 8, and 5. One of their children has a developmental disability, a factor that supports his appointment to the board.

Marcelli possesses over a decade of experience in the developmental disabilities field. In Georgia, he served as a job coach, business manager, and chief financial officer for a provider organization. He said this background will help inform his work on the board. 

“I care deeply about inclusion and informed choices and opportunities for all,” Marcelli said. “I really resonate with the mission of the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities.”

The Marcelli family relocated to Mason in 2025, drawn by the area’s school system and proximity to Ohio family members. Having been actively involved in their previous community, Marcelli said his family is eager to build similar connections locally. Serving on the board is one way he hopes to contribute and establish roots in Warren County.

By being new to the area, Marcelli hopes to bring “fresh perspective” to the board.

The Marcelli’s also operate Marcelli Bookkeeping Services, which provides bookkeeping services for small businesses.



The Warren County Board of Commissioners approved the appointment of Marcelli on March 17, 2026. Marcelli is anticipated to serve on the board until 2029.

About the Board

The mission of the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is to support people with developmental disabilities and their families to achieve what is important to them. 

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is governed by a seven-member board of volunteers. Five board members are appointed by the Warren County Commissioners, and two are appointed by the county’s Probate Court Judge. Board members’ terms are for four years, and members may serve no more than three consecutive terms.

All board meetings are open to the public and most take place at 6 p.m. on the fourth Monday of the month at 42 Kings Way in Lebanon.

Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities receives a three-year accreditation from DODD

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities has received the state of Ohio’s highest rating in a mandatory accreditation review.

The Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD) is responsible for the monitoring and oversight of Ohio’s 88 county boards of developmental disabilities. Accreditation reviews are conducted to ensure that boards meet accreditation standards, as outlined in the Ohio Administrative Code. Based on the results of an accreditation review, a county board is awarded an accreditation of one or three years.

The agency’s previous three-year accreditation from 2023 was set to expire this year, so it was time for another review. In February, six surveyors from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities were on site to review documents and meet with several individuals who receive services from the agency. After the review process, the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities was awarded a three-year accreditation, which is the maximum award given.

Although the review lasted only two days, Superintendent Megan Manuel said the three-year accreditation reflects the agency’s commitment to quality and continuous improvement over the past three years.

“We’re proud to receive the highest level of accreditation from the state, as it reflects the hard work and dedication our team brings to their work every day as we strive to empower and support individuals served in Warren County ,” Manuel said. 

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities supports more than 2,400 individuals with disabilities and their families, through Early Intervention, Community Resources, Employment Services, Social, Recreational, Service Coordination, and other programs.

Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosts Jeep Show to fund free Kings Island trip for individuals with disabilities

The 2nd annual Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Jeep Show was full of sunshine, good food, and an even better cause to support. In stark contrast to last year’s downpour, this year’s weather brought out an even larger crowd.

For the third year in a row, Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Maintenance Specialist Robert Abbott, with the support of the agency, created a fundraising campaign to offer free and discounted Kings Island tickets to individuals and family members who receive services from the agency.

The Jeep Show is Abbott's largest fundraising event. Held at the Warren C. Young Center on May 3, 2026, the event raised over $2,500, surpassing last year’s fundraising total.

The Warren County Jeep community, commonly known as the Jeepers, showed up in full force with 44 jeeps. After enjoying the local vendors and raffle baskets, attendees voted on their favorite vehicles, with some honorable mentions including Bengals, Scrambler, and a Law Enforcement Jeep honoring fallen K-9 Officer, Bragi.

Abbott successfully met his fundraising goal after the Jeep Show, in addition to generous donations from The Community Housing Assistance Program, Homeland Security Systems, Rivers Crossing Church, and Reliable RX in Lebanon.

About the Kings Island DD Day

Abbott came up with the idea a couple years ago and works tirelessly each year to make it happen. Because prices and circumstances can often make it difficult for individuals served by the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities to visit Kings Island, Abbott was determined to bridge the gap and make it possible. 

“One of the biggest reasons I started this was being able to watch the individuals we serve at WCBDD get to do something fun and see their smiles and happiness while getting to go to the greatest amusement park in the state they live in,” Abbott said. “It’s a lot of work and stress to put into something that only is going to last a day, but the smiles on the individuals’ faces and the great support I receive from my fellow Jeepers - makes it so worth it.” 

Last year, over 100 individuals attended the Kings Island Day outing. For some, it was their first time ever visiting the park; for others, it was their first trip since childhood. Thanks to the community’s generous donations, attendees spent the day riding rollercoasters, enjoying the water park, and making lifelong memories.

The 2026 Kings Island visit promises to be even more memorable, featuring a special performance by the Voices of Warren County Choir in front of the Eiffel Tower to celebrate the annual outing. The Voices of Warren County is a choir group comprised of adults with disabilities who receive services from the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities. 

Event and Ticket Information:

Event Date: Sunday, August 16, 2026

For Individuals Served by WCBDD:

• Cost: FREE (Does not apply to those who already hold a Kings Island Season Pass.)
• Availability: Tickets are limited and distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. Once all tickets are claimed, a waitlist will be opened.

For Family, Providers, and WCBDD Staff:

• Cost: Tickets can be purchased for $44 (parking included.) A link will be posted in the coming weeks leading up to the event.

For Personal Caregivers:

• Paid, formal caregivers can receive complimentary admission by providing proof of employment at Kings Island’s Guest Services.
• Acceptable Documentation: Employee ID, check stub, certification, or a formal letter from the hiring agency/company/family with proof of pay status, accompanied by a photo ID.

Questions or Donations?

If you would like to make a general donation to support this event or have any questions, please contact Claire Bishop at claire.bishop@warrencountydd.org.

Individual served by Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities honored on field at Cincinnati Reds Game

An individual who receives services from the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities was honored on field at the Cincinnati Reds game at the Great American Ball Park on Friday, April 10, 2026.

Gordon McCurrach, 45 of Loveland, was on the field to accept a $1,000 donation from the Reds Country Cares on behalf of his longtime 15-year workplace, InReturn.

​Founded in 2005, InReturn is a Cincinnati-based provider of viable employment for traumatic brain injury (TBI) survivors and individuals with developmental disabilities through manufacturing contracts and Life Skills Programming. The company provides in-house and out-sourced job opportunities to 30 traumatic brain injury survivors.

InReturn Executive Director Kelsey Schaible said she chose McCurrach because, although he is typically shy, he immediately volunteered himself for the opportunity. McCurrach said he loves attending Cincinnati Reds games and described the experience of being invited on the field as “unbelievable.”

McCurrach sported a De La Cruz jersey and waved to the crowd as he accepted the donation alongside two co-workers. Over the stadium speakers, the announcer described McCurrach as an active athlete in the Warren County Special Olympics. The announcer also introduced Nate Petrey, who has worked at InReturn for 17 years and has coached for Mason Comets baseball for 25 years, and Jessica McCabe, who was described as, “A 9-year InReturn associate who brings positive energy and personality to work every day.”

Reds Country Cares selects one societal issue per month of the regular season to spotlight organizations in the area who are making a meaningful impact in their communities through support and service. In April, Reds Country Cares focused “on making sure everyone knows that Reds baseball welcomes all” by featuring several organizations that support the disability community, including InReturn, Sami Sunshine, Down Syndrome Association of Greater Cincinnati, All Abilities Sports NKY, Hearts in the Park, and Our Tribe Cincy.

Schaible said InReturn will use the grant funding to improve its Life Skills classes or make improvements to its facility.

About Warren County Special Olympics

Warren County Special Olympics offers children and adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities an athletic challenge at their skill level. All athletes in Warren County participate in the program free of charge.

Warren County Special Olympics offers a wide range of sports, including:

• Athletics/ Track and Field
• Basketball
• Bocce Ball
• Cheerleading
• Floor hockey
• Softball
• Swimming

Each year, Warren County Special Olympics athletes travel to Columbus to compete in the Special Olympics Summer Games and Winter Games, as well as numerous qualifying events.

The agency also offers recreational athletic activities, including bowling, tennis, soccer, and cornhole.

For more information about Special Olympics, please contact Community Integration Coordinator Rhonda Schutte at rhonda.schutte@warrencountydd.org or (513) 806-3809.

Meet the Remote Support and Assistive Technology Intern

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud to introduce its Remote Support and Assistive Technology Intern, Josh Hiday.

The internship was funded by a $50,000 Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Innovative Technology Grant intended to expand the Smart Technology STUDIO in five ways:

1. Expansion of the Smart Technology STUDIO with new assistive technologies.
2. Development of lending library kits with community partners
3. Enhance the Smart Technology STUDIO’s lending library.
4. Launch a supportive technology website that will include a 3D tour of the STUDIO.
5. Create a paid internship opportunity for an individual served to assist with the Smart Technology STUDIO.

The internship, which accounts for the second largest portion of the grant, will bring Hiday into the STUDIO for 10 hours per week for six months, with the option to extend the internship to one year. He was chosen after a 3-week interview process.

Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer said Hiday was chosen based on his strong interest in technology, attention to detail, and willingness to learn how assistive technology tools can support greater independence for individuals we serve.

During his internship, Hiday will work closely with Meyer to enhance the Smart Technology STUDIO, Warren County's Lending Library, and fulfill the requirements of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Innovative Technology Grant. 

Meyer said Hiday's perspective and approach to problem solving will support individuals looking for support from the Remote Support and Assistive Technology program. He will provide his real-world experience to individuals, families, and teams during individual-focused meetings and STUDIO tours.

This internship opportunity reflects continued efforts to build inclusive opportunities while expanding the use of technology to support independence.

About the Smart Technology STUDIO

The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities opened the Smart Technology STUDIO in 2024 to introduce individuals with developmental disabilities to assistive technology that could encourage independence.

The STUDIO, which stands for Supporting Technology Utilizing Devices to Increase Opportunities, resembles a studio apartment with 5 distinct spaces: a living room, kitchen, bathroom, bedroom, and laundry room. Visitors will have the opportunity to explore an array of assistive technology in each area, including communication devices, sensory regulation equipment, adaptable kitchen devices, medication reminder devices, visual support software, and more.

The STUDIO was initially funded by a $25,000 grant from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities. In 2026, the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities will expand its SMART Technology Studio with the help of a $50,000 Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Innovative Technology Grant.

The Smart Technology STUDIO is at the Warren C. Young Center, located at 801 Drake Road. The STUDIO is available by appointment only. For more information about the Smart Technology STUDIO, please contact Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer at Susan.Meyer@WarrenCountyDD.org or (513) 806-3791.

Warren County Mom Publishes Free Guide for Autism Families

A Warren County autism mom, Addison Wolf, is sharing her family's story after her son Memphis received a Level 3 Autism diagnosis. At the time of his diagnosis, Wolf left the appointment with nothing - feeling isolated and with no steps on what to do next.

In an effort to ensure other families do not feel the same way, Wolf created a free Autism guide filled with raw, unfiltered resources and information. Titled ‘You Are Not Alone — The Newly Diagnosed Autism Parent Survival Guide’, it is written entirely from the perspective of a real Warren County autism mom — not a clinician or a researcher. As Wolf clarifies, it is from “someone that has walked the walk, and still walking the walk every day.”

Receiving any kind of diagnosis can feel daunting and overwhelming. When asked what the hardest part of hearing Memphis’s diagnosis was, Wolf shared without hesitation that it was the sudden isolation. “It’s hard - you don’t know any other families…public outings are hard; car rides are hard. You can’t always go on the typical childhood outings.”

‘You Are Not Alone’ not only covers these emotional challenges, but also dives into the practicalities of navigating therapy options, IEP rights, insurance, and self-care for parents and siblings. “It is the guide I desperately needed the day Memphis was diagnosed and couldn't find anywhere,” Wolf says.

After publishing this guide, Wolf no longer feels isolated; she has finally built the very community she once desperately searched for. By turning her family’s hardships into a roadmap for others, she is ensuring that families everywhere never have to walk this path alone. 

To view Wolf’s free guide, click the button below. Interested in following Memphis's journey? Follow them on Instagram @memphisjourney1.

For more information, contact Community Relations Coordinator Claire Bishop at Claire.Bishop@warrencountydd.org or (513) 335-1026.

Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosts Things That Go! and Assistive Technology Fair

Over one dozen local businesses and organizations showcased their unique vehicles at the 2026 Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Things That Go touch-a-truck event.

Vehicles in attendance included an ice cream truck, fire truck, school bus, SWAT vehicle, the Cincinnati Reds Mobile, a pet grooming van, and much more. Animal attendees included search dogs from Buckeye Search and Rescue, rabbits from PetPALS, and Charmander the Shetland Pony and Pokémon the Miniature Horse from Dark Horse Inclusion.

Operations Director Dave Siebert, lovingly known as “Farmer Dave,” gave rides to visitors on his tractor. Everyone, including Siebert and his passengers, were smiling ear to ear.

Concurrently, the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosted its third annual technology fair and showcase, highlighting the latest tools that promote independence, safety, and communication for individuals with developmental disabilities. 

The event featured a technology provided by remote support and assistive technology vendors. Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer welcomed guests into the Smart Technology STUDIO for tours, demonstrations, and resources about available technology. 

Upcoming Events

Event Photos

Goal-Crushing News!

We are celebrating the incredible achievements of the families and children we work with! At the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities, we are all about supporting children and their families and helping them crush their goals—big or small. We’ve seen so many children and families reach important milestones this year, from mastering a new skill to achieving personal goals. Whether it is improved communication, walking independently, or making new friends, every step forward is worth celebrating! We are excited to shout out Goal Crushing News for the families of Cora and Grayson! 

Cora:

Cora's mom shared that “Cora has been working hard on her communication skills. She is incredibly motivated and picks up new things quickly. We’ve found that she responds especially well to sign language, which has been a wonderful tool in supporting her communication. Her vocabulary has grown tremendously this year, and we’re excited to continue seeing her hard work pay off!” 

Cora's Early Intervention Primary Service Provider, Kelsey, shared, "Cora has been receiving Early Intervention in the area of Speech Therapy for about a year now, and I couldn't be prouder of the progress she has made! When I first met Cora, she only had about 5 spoken words, and only a handful of signs. Cora is now using a variety of spoken words, word approximations, signs, and is beginning to combine signs into phrases! Cora and her Family have been wonderful to work with, and I cannot wait to see what else Cora is able to accomplish!" 

Grayson:

Grayson’s Early Intervention Primary Service Provider, Anna, shared, “Grayson turned 3 and graduated from Early Intervention services in January. He started out with a lot of challenges with gross motor and communication delays. He also had some health issues and had to go to lots of appointments. Taking swimming lessons really helped him get stronger. He has overcome his motor delay and is talking all the time! He loves to ride the bus and play with his friends at school. His family is grateful to have had the help to improve his skills before preschool. 

Spotlight Article:

Learning Happens in the Little Moments: Caregiver Coaching in Early Intervention



Heather Ingram-Ice, Developmental Specialist

Training and Coaching Coordinator

Evidence-Based Practice Coach

In Early Intervention, our providers use a caregiver coaching approach—which simply means we partner with you, the parent. Instead of focusing only on your child during visits, we support you in using simple strategies throughout your everyday routines. The big idea is this: you are your child’s most important teacher, and the moments you already have—meals, playtime, getting dressed, bath time—are where real learning happens and are the most powerful opportunities for learning. This approach works because children learn best through repetition, relationships, and real-life experiences, not just during a once-a-week visit.

For example, if your child is working on communication, we might build a strategy into snack time—pausing for a moment before handing over a favorite food, modeling a word like “more,” and giving your child a chance to respond. Over time, these tiny, everyday moments add up to big growth.

One parent whose child is enrolled in Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Early Intervention Services shared this about caregiver coaching:

“Caregiver coaching has made such a difference for our family! Before we started receiving support, I often felt lost or guilt for not knowing how to handle certain behaviors or developmental delays. Throughout the past two years, we have received an incredible amount of coaching, support, and tools to help us best support our child. Behaviorally, he has come to expect (and appreciate) the structure and stability of routines and following directions. Developmentally, he is truly thriving and exceeding all of our expectations. I believe wholeheartedly that is due to early intervention and what I’ve learned through caregiver coaching!”

Caregiver coaching is about helping you feel confident, supported, and successful—because when strategies fit naturally into your day, they’re easier to use, and that’s when progress really takes off.

Caregiver coaching is grounded in evidence-based practices from leaders in early childhood, including the Family, Infant, and Preschool Program (FIPP) and the Family-Guided Routines-Based Intervention (FGRBI) framework, both of which emphasize the power of everyday routines and strong caregiver partnerships in supporting child development.

Check out these links that provide supporting information about caregiver coaching.

There's More to Caregiver Coaching Than Just Talking

Family Guided Routines Based Intervention

Coaching Resources for Families

Friday Friends at the Park is Back!

Two summers ago, we launched an exciting opportunity for families to connect—and we are thrilled to announce that Friday Friends at the Park is returning this year!

Join your Early Childhood Team Members and other families for sunshine, playtime, and meaningful connection. This event is a great way for children and caregivers to enjoy the outdoors and make new friends!

Who’s Invited?

Families of children birth to age 6 who are enrolled in Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities services. Siblings are welcome too!

·      August 14th, 2026 | 🕙 10:00 AM – 11:30 AM

 📍 Kacie Jane Park Splash Pad, Springboro

·      Click here to Register for August 14th

In order for us to plan for Early Childhood Team Members to support you, please let us know if you plan to attend by registering. We cannot wait to spend time with you and your little ones—see you at the park!

Resource Corner

Here are a few helpful websites and organizations we encourage you to explore! These resources offer valuable support, information, and opportunities for families with young children—especially those with unique developmental needs.

Early Intervention & Child Development

Ohio Early Intervention

Information about Ohio’s Early Intervention system for infants and toddlers with developmental delays.

• What is EI?
• What Can I Expect?

Zero to Three

Trusted resources on early childhood development, focusing on the critical first three years of life.

State & Local Support Services

·      Ohio Department of Children and Youth

Access programs and services that support children and families throughout Ohio.

·      Ohio Department of Education and Workforce / Special Education

Information on special education programs and services across Ohio schools.

·      Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities (OCECD)

Advocacy and support for families of children with disabilities from birth through adulthood.

·      OCALI

Resources and training to promote access and equity for individuals with disabilities.

·      Pause for Parents, Play for Kids

A nonprofit supporting family of children with special needs by providing rest, connection, and fun activities.

·      United Way 211

The United Way 211 Helpline is a gateway to a wide range of essential community services available 24 hours a day, seven days a week. Our trained 211 team listens, asks questions, assesses callers’ needs and refers people to resources within United Way’s comprehensive database of local providers.

If you are an individual in need of help and can’t find what you need after searching UWGC211.org, please DIAL 211 or fill out the contact request form to have a resource navigator get in touch with you directly.

About United Ways of Butler, Warren and Clinton Counties (UWBWCC) 211 Collaborative

The UWBWCC 211 Collaborative is a group of local United Ways working together to fund and support 211 services in Butler, Warren, and Clinton Counties.

Literacy, Libraries, and Outdoor Fun

·      Ohio Imagination Library

Sign up for free monthly book deliveries for children from birth to age five.

·      Warren County Public Libraries

Explore resources, programs, and events available at your local public library.

·      Warren County Park District

Discover parks, trails, and family-friendly outdoor activities across the county.

Questions or Need More Info?

We’re here to support you. If you have any questions or would like more information about Early Childhood Services at WCBDD, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

We look forward to continuing to provide services for your family!

Warmly,

 The Early Childhood Team

 Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities

For any questions or additional information regarding Early Childhood Services, please contact:

Kelly Brooks

Early Childhood Manager

Kelly.brooks@warrencountydd.org or 513-518-1845

OR



Maria Meyer

Early Childhood Manager

Maria.meyer@warrencountydd.org or 513-260-6470