A Word from our Superintendent
Oh, did we have a busy Summer and Fall!
With Special Olympics sports, community events, and WCBDD events most weekends, our calendar has been full of opportunities for engagement. Read more about some of these events below!
Notably, the State Summer Games featured seven different sports, attracted over 3,000 athletes, 88 local programs, 850 coaches, and about 1,000 volunteers. This year marked the 50th anniversary of Special Olympics Ohio, making the event a significant occasion for participants and supporters alike. For more information on Special Olympics Ohio, visit https://sooh.org/.
We officially welcomed fall with this year’s Family Fun Day, themed Fall at the Farm, on Saturday, September 20 at the Miracle League Field in Springboro. We enjoyed free food and ice cream, a petting zoo, fun games, and of course a baseball game. Everyone who met “Farmer Dave” at Things That Go! was pleased to see him and his tractor again at Family Fun Day. We hope you all had as much fun as we did!
In September, we celebrated DSP Appreciation week with the annual DSP dinner. We love to take this time to recognize the incredible dedication and compassion of our Direct Support Professionals. These individuals play a vital role in the lives of the people we serve, providing support, building relationships, and making a difference every day. We are so grateful for all they do.
October was National Disability Employment Awareness Month! For the entire month, WCBDD featured one employee we support each week on our social media platforms. Follow us to take a look at the amazing work being done in our community.
If your business is looking for employees and you would like more information about hiring someone we support, please reach out to Heather Moore at heather.moore@warrencountydd.org or (513) 518-1840 to find out if we have the perfect person waiting for you!
As we enter into the holiday season, there are many exciting opportunities coming up for all to enjoy. Keep an eye out on our social media and monthly calendar for more information!
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 case of emergency, 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!
| | | | WCBDD creates community and farm memories at 2025 Family Fun Day | |
(Springboro, OH) - The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosted its annual Family Fun Day event at the Miracle League Field in Springboro on September 20, 2025. People from across the county enjoyed free food, Special Neat Treats ice cream, games, A&S party inflatables, karaoke, and of course, the opening day for the Miracle League of Greater Dayton.
The Miracle League of Greater Dayton’s goal is to offer endless opportunities to individuals of all ages and abilities to learn to play the game of baseball on their adaptive field. Each game, local volunteers partner up with an individual with a disability to assist them as they learn and play alongside them. This year, the Springboro High School baseball team played the opening game.
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Upon arrival, Monster Beatz DJ’s music echoed throughout the park as guests visited local businesses' informational booths and activities. The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Remote Supports and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer created a display to represent the tools inside the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Smart Technology Studio. A girl scout troop attended to make bracelets with attendees and share information about their inclusive group. REM Ohio set up a table to share information about their housing services and day programs. Talbert House had a booth aimed to share more about their mental health and substance abuse services, while also creating a fun environment with different games for the children.
Guests made song requests, sang karaoke, and had an epic dance party lasting the entire event. The song of the day was Frozen’s “Let it Go,” as it was requested several times.
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This years’ Family Fun Day theme was “Fall at the Farm.” Operations director, Dave Siebert, affectionately known as “Farmer Dave,” was in attendance and gave rides on his tractor around the parking lot. Other activities included, “Feed the Pig,” a cow milking game, an egg hunt, and of course, the dunk tank known as “Dunk-A-Doodle-Doo.” Sheriff Barry Riley made an appearance and dunked one of the volunteer “dunkees,” Advocate Aaron Bowman. Pet Pals brought in rabbits for attendees to pet and hold if they needed a break from the noise and excitement of the day.
Each year Family Fun Day seems to grow in its outreach and the volume of attendees. This event would not be possible without the help of the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities employees, as well as Officer Brock and his crew who volunteered with the kitchen crew this year. This inclusive, free event is always a huge hit and we are already looking forward to next year!
For more information, contact Community Relations Coordinator Claire Bishop at claire.bishop@warrencountydd.org or (513) 335-1026.
| | WCBDD hosts Things That Go! and Assistive Technology Fair | | |
(Lebanon, OH) - The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) 2025 Things That Go! event had something for everyone, with a wide variety of vehicles, interactive activities, animals, information booths, and more.
Over one dozen local businesses and organizations brought their vehicles to the event to show people who receive services from WCBDD how each vehicle operates. Vehicles in attendance included a police vehicle, an ice cream truck, a fire truck, a school bus, a Volkswagen Beetle, the Lil’ Bloom Flower Truck, the Cincinnati Reds Mobile, a recumbent bike, adaptive hiking equipment from Luke5Adventures, and much more.
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New Operations Director Dave Siebert, lovingly known as “Farmer Dave,” gave rides to visitors in two of his tractors. Prepared with an Oliver tractor shirt and wide brimmed hat, Siebert drove his tractor in circles around the parking lot. Everyone, including Siebert and his two passengers, were smiling ear to ear.
Although Things That Go! is all about local vehicles, it's also a celebration of everything that moves, which includes some four-legged friends, too!
The Therapeutic Riding Institute brought miniature horses, Buckeye Search and Rescue brought their search dogs, and PetPALS brought a variety of rabbits. All organizations instructed children on how to gently pet the animals.
The Lebanon Public Library brought Safety Town, an activity where children have the chance to bike around a miniature city designed just for them. Complete with stop signs and crosswalks, the setup gives kids a hands-on way to practice using safety signals, following traffic rules, and sharing the road.
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Concurrently, WCBDD successfully hosted its second annual technology fair and showcase, highlighting the latest tools that promote independence, safety, and communication for individuals with developmental disabilities.
This event featured a wide variety of technology provided by remote support and assistive technology vendors. WCBDD Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer welcomed guests into the SMART Studio, a space resembling a modern studio apartment that features assistive technology to help individuals live independently. Meyer gave tours, demonstrations, and resources about available technology.
Community partners enriched the showcase with interactive stations. WCBDD Early Intervention and Behavior Supports divisions shared communication options and visual supports for families. Attendees explored switch-adapted toys a the EasterSeals Redwood table, learned about the MedReady Medication Dispenser with staff from TruCare Provider Supports, and discovered the many features of AngelSense, a safety device for parents and caregivers.
"This event brings together families, providers, and technology experts to explore real solutions that support independence," Susan Meyer said. "We are proud to provide a space where the community can see, touch, and try technology that make a difference in daily life."
The Technology Fair and Showcase is part of WCBDD's ongoing efforts to connect individuals and families with innovative tools that encourage independence and inclusion.
For more information, contact Megan Becker at megan.becker@warrencountydd.org or (859) 653-7445.
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Get ready for our next Things That Go! in May
Our next Things That Go! event will be hosted on Saturday, May 2 from 10 a.m. to noon. Our rain date will be the following weekend, Saturday, May 9. Please let us know if you would like to bring a vehicle or set up a booth at this event!
| | | | | WCBDD brings inclusive safety education to adults with disabilities | |
(Lebanon, OH) – When it comes to safety education, people with disabilities are often left out- a gap the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) is working to close.
The need for programming is clear. A 2025 study published in EClinicalMedicine stated that violence victimization occurs more frequently for children with disabilities, with global estimates suggesting children with disabilities are twice as likely to experience violence than their non-disabled peers.
However, the same 2025 study found that most school-based violence prevention programs are not designed with students with disabilities in mind, with many failing to include accessible components or data on effectiveness for this population.
WCBDD hosted its third annual Safety Night on July 29, 2025, to fill this education gap. The event was hosted for individuals aged 18 years and older who receive services from WCBDD to learn about personal safety and well-being, including internet safety, creating healthy relationships, medication use and misuse, the dangers of vaping, and how to interact with police officers.
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“If anything looks suspicious or scary, ask for help.”
Safe on Main is a local organization that provides comprehensive services to domestic violence, sexual assault, and human trafficking survivors, including crisis shelter, court advocacy, therapy, and support groups.
Roy Lutz, Education and Outreach Manager of Safe on Main, discussed a variety of topics related to internet use, personal boundaries, and healthy relationships, including:
- Understanding the difference between online predators and bullies.
- Recognizing the benefits and risks of artificial intelligence, including its misuse by scammers.
- Practicing appropriate social media etiquette.
- Respecting consent and personal boundaries.
- Building and maintaining healthy relationships with yourself and others.
- Supporting and managing your mental health.
Lutz used familiar examples from Disney movies to illustrate safety topics, including using Carl Fredricksen’s house in “Up” surrounded by construction to represent maintaining personal boundaries.
“Our focus is to create violence-free communities, and that doesn’t happen without changing and affecting relationships,” Lutz said. “This is a population that I think is underserved in regards to education around healthy relationships, and that’s how I think we solve these issues of violence.”
This is Safe on Main’s third Safety Night presentation at WCBDD, and Lutz said his favorite part is seeing familiar faces and forming relationships with individuals served by WCBDD.
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“We are here to be your friend and I am here to help you, even though I may sound scary.”
Officer Aaron Morgan from the Springboro Police Department was a newcomer to Safety Night and offered advice on how to interact with police officers. Presenting in uniform, Morgan explained to the audience that police officers sometimes need to adopt an intimidating demeanor to command respect and maintain control in tense situations.
Morgan, who is a friendly and approachable woman, demonstrated how her behavior shifts when faced with danger. First, she thoughtfully prepared the crowd for what she was going to present. Then, Morgan confidently switched to her authoritative “police voice” and intimidating body language. She explained that although she may seem scary, she’s there to help the community.
Morgan further explained:
- What police officers can assist with.
- How to respond if you see a police officer in public.
- What not to do if you see a police officer with a tool in their hands.
- What to do and say when calling 911.
- What to do if your car is pulled over.
Community Employment Coordinator Cheri Cummings, who organized Safety Night, created a station for event participants to create a Safety Card, a customized card with their emergency contact information and information about their disability that would assist emergency responders in the event they might need to interact with the person.
For example, Morgan explained that police officers monitor someone's behavior during a traffic stop, including watching for eye contact to determine a person's level of awareness. However, avoiding eye contact is a common characteristic for people on the autism spectrum. Therefore, some people may choose to inform the police officer of their disability to avoid miscommunication.
The Safety Card is the size of a credit card and is designed to fit behind an individual's driver’s license in their wallet. It is intended to be presented to a police officer during a traffic stop to help explain the actions of a person with a disability.
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Not all substances are created equal.
Amy Johnson of Talbert House Prevention Services gave a visual presentation of substance abuse that included real alcohol containers to demonstrate how different beverages contain varying levels of alcohol, and why that matters.
Johnson further emphasized the importance of carefully reading product labels by showing a package of THC-infused gummies. While the package contained 10 gummies, the label indicated that a single dose was only a portion of one gummy- not the entire piece. This example highlighted how misunderstanding dosing instructions can lead to unintentional overconsumption, reinforcing the need for reading package labels.
Johnson also touched on smoking and vaping, including the substances that can harm you in vapes beyond tobacco.
“When it comes to medication, sharing isn’t caring.”
Devvastated was founded after a loved one passed away due to fentanyl poisoning. The organization aims to raise awareness about the dangers of fentanyl and other illicit drugs.
Vikki Stickelman of Devvastated led an engaging presentation about medication use and misuse. She discussed not sharing medications, the dangers of fake pills, and how to properly dispose of medication.
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Take the wheel, and take it seriously.
Warren County Safe Communities is an organization dedicated to reducing traffic related injuries and death. Ann Brock of Warren County Safe Communities presented on the importance of proper driver training and responsible behavior behind the wheel. To demonstrate the dangers of impaired driving in an interactive way, Brock brought drunk goggles that gave attendees a firsthand experience of how alcohol can affect vision and coordination.
After the presentations, participants visited each organization's booth for additional information. Participants visited safety stations to learn more about each topic that was presented, including a table set up by the Warren County Health District.
Safety Night will be hosted again next year.
For more information, contact Megan Becker at megan.becker@warrencountydd.org or (859) 653-7445.
| | Warren County BDD makes impact at 2025 Synergy | | |
(Sandusky, OH) - Advocates and county employees worked together to prove the worth of the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities by sharing invaluable experiences and knowledge at the 2025 Synergy Conference in Sandusky, Ohio, from October 1 to 3, 2025.
The annual Synergy event is an inclusive conference that aims to introduce communities to new perspectives and solutions with session topics like exploring technology, planning for your future, self-care, how to navigate waivers, health equity, community employment, and more.
Several Warren County employees attended to give presentations and to support individuals served by the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Members of The Voices Speaking Out Self Advocacy group also experienced the conference and shared their own experiences, allowing Warren County’s impact to resonate throughout the conference at the Kalahari Resort.
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Ishika shares experience with Charting the Life Course
Advocate Ishika Sharma co-led a session titled, “Your Story, Your Strengths, Your Voice: Creating your Charting the Life Course One-Pager.” This session invited participants to hear from Sharma and Latisha Brown from the Ohio DD Council about their experiences with employment, healthy living, advocacy, and how creating a one-pager helps them to achieve their goals in different aspects of life.
A one-pager is a simple, easy-to-read sheet that shares important information about a person on a single page. It usually includes sections like what people like about me, what’s important to me, how to support me, and my goals. Its purpose is to help an individual communicate their needs at home, work, school, and in the community.
“My one-pager helps take things into more perspective and they learn more about you,” Sharma said. “That’s why I think the purpose of this is to share with who you interact with in daily life, even if it’s just your family members or your co-workers.”
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WCBDD staff host Escape Room and independent living session
Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Remote Supports and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer designed the Hut Hop Escape Room aimed at “unlocking skills for independent living.” Meyer planned this event as a member of the Vibe Tribe Engagement Committee.
The escape room experience encouraged participants to work as a team to help a fictional character living with a disability named Sandy with a busy day at her new home, including going to the park, grocery store, bank, and pharmacy. The goal of the activity was to build essential skills for independent living, supported decision-making, teamwork, and self-determination.
As an escape room enthusiast, Meyer developed the Escape Room game to create a fun, inclusive experience that allows people of all abilities to develop new independent living skills. Participants worked together to solve puzzles that allowed the fictional character Sandy to navigate living on her own.
Meyer and SSA Manager Kellie Hampton guided participants in the correct direction throughout the session and Clearwater Council of Governments assisted with manning each station of the Escape Room.
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Advocate Kelley Castle, who attended the escape room experience, said she enjoyed the variety of puzzles, which reminded her of a forensics investigation game. She said she has struggled with working with a team in the past and typically prefers to work independently. However, she said the activity helped her to work as a team and ensured everyone in her group participated.
Castle attended the session independently and was paired with a group to complete the experience. She expressed that she would like to try the escape room again with her fellow advocates when the group returns home to Warren County.
Meyer hopes to host the Escape Room again at the 2026 Synergy event.
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On the third and last day of the conference, the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Residential Options Coordinator Lori Carr joined Meyer and Hampton to present a session titled “Pathways to Independence: Navigating Life Skills, Housing, and Financial Planning.” The session aimed to equip individuals with the tools needed to successfully navigate the journey to independent living, including budgeting, managing daily tasks, accessing support systems, housing options, and financial planning strategies. Meyer, who manages the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Smart Technology Studio, also highlighted the tools inside the studio, where other similar Ohio resources are located, and the role of assistive technology in enhancing independence and improving accessibility.
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Michael shares AI music
Advocate Michael Yeamans, the newest member of the Ohio Tech Ambassadors, set up a booth to share the power of artificial intelligence. Yeamans created a variety of music with AI and shared his creations with Synergy attendees, representing the ways in which AI can be utilized in daily life.
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Luke and Jacob recognized with awards
Two advocates from Warren County were surprised to win two of the five Synergy Awards, presented by Sharon Travis of Southwestern Ohio Council of Governments, highlighting the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities’ impact at the conference.
Advocate Luke Marshall was awarded with the Ultimate Teammate Award for his advocacy work as the president of VSO.
“He ensures that everyone's voice is heard at VSO meetings and does a great job at leading in a productive direction. He is always the most positive person in the room, radiating positive energy to others around him,” Travis said. “If not working, he attends events and is a great team player. He encourages collaboration and is always willing to learn and grow.”
This is not the first time Marshall has been recognized for his teamwork and leadership skills- he was also awarded the Team Player Award at the first annual Open House Award Ceremony on March 11, 2025, and the Rachel Rice Advocacy Award in 2023.
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Advocate Jacob Smith was awarded with the Achievement Award for his work through VSO and his YouTube channel @CookFromJacob, which is dedicated to making unique dishes, sharing recipes, and traveling.
“He is captivating, educational, and has a funny side,” Travis said. “Jacob uses his platform to help change perceptions of autism and to advocate for himself and others.”
In one video dedicated to disability awareness, Smith said, “In today's society, we are proud to be accepted and treated equally, and not segregated or hidden. We focus on common interests, characteristics, and personality, not disability. Ableism will not be tolerated.”
Warren County advocates who attended Synergy ranged from first-timers to people who have attended several Synergy conferences. Regardless of experience, everyone was excited for three days of education, independence, and fun.
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Despite only having 11 advocates at the event, attendees could see the neon-green Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities advocacy shirts dotted across the conference. Advocates spoke up during sessions to share their experiences, networked, made new friends, and made full use of the Synergy experience.
Outside of sessions, participants enjoyed social activities, a dance party, and Ohio’s largest indoor waterpark. The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud to support the Synergy conference and its mission to encourage collaboration, innovation, and positive change.
The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities will return to Synergy in 2026.
For more information, contact Megan Becker at megan.becker@warrencountydd.org or (859) 653-7445.
| Life is Sweet as a DSP - WCBDD Hosts DSP Appreciation Dinner | | | |
(Lebanon, OH) - The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosted the DSP (Direct Support Professional) Appreciation Dinner on September 10, 2025, to honor these hardworking individuals for what they have done for the community that we serve.
Lindsay Graves, a Provider Development Coordinator at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities, put together a lovely evening to celebrate the Warren County DSPs for the seventh year in a row. Graves said, “What I love most about celebrating them during appreciation week is the chance to shine a spotlight on the heart of this industry of supporting individuals. It really is a moment to say, ‘We see you. We value you.’”
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The theme of the dinner was “Life is sweet as a DSP.” Upon walking in, DSPs from across Warren County were greeted by the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities employees. They were handed t-shirts and given the option to enter into a raffle for candy and gift cards. Graves joked, “I am trying to give you all a stomach ache” to which everyone laughed, as there were so many different candy options for people to take home. The DSPs enjoyed the candy bar, so much so that it was in need of a restock before the night was over!
One of the most touching portions of the evening was the playing of a compilation video of individuals sharing their thoughts and their favorite memories with their DSPs. Months prior to the dinner, Graves and Angela Mason drove to different day programs in the area to interview individuals. At these interviews, they shared their favorite memories and different milestones they have achieved with the help of their DSP.
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Graves shared, “One thing I’ve learned from working with DSPs is how important their work really is. These are the people who show up every day, often behind the scenes, making things run smoothly with dedication, resilience, and care…Celebrating them is more than just recognition—it’s a way to honor the human connection and the impact they make on a daily basis.”
Being a DSP may not always be easy, but the success stories, no matter how big or small they may be, are why they do what they do. Life truly is sweet as a DSP.
For more information, contact Community Relations Coordinator Claire Bishop at claire.bishop@warrencountydd.org or (513) 335-1026.
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Submit your quote for a chance to be featured in the 2026 WCBDD agency calendar!
Individuals who receive services from WCBDD are invited to share a quote focused on self-determination, advocacy, leadership, independence, or other personally meaningful topics. Complete the survey below to submit your name and quote. Twelve quotes will be selected to appear in the 2026 calendar.
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Warren County Special Olympic athletes began practicing for the Cornhole Tournament which will take place September 13, 2025. This will be a large regional tournament at the Countryside YMCA, where Warren County will be hosting about one dozen other districts. When cornhole was first announced, no one knew what the interest would be like. However, at the first practice, 28 individuals showed up ready to learn the rules and practice. Special Olympics is aiming to make Cornhole an official sport. So far, the sport seems to be well received here in Warren County!
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Next year, WCBDD plans to join the 35 Ohio counties that offer a Mobile Changing Unit (MCU), a portable adult-sized changing table. It provides caregivers with a convenient and safe space to assist those who may be unable to care for themselves, including individuals with disabilities, children, babies, aging adults, and people who use a catheter.
WCBDD plans to make its MCU available by next year. More updates will be shared as the project progresses!
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On August 10, 2025, over 100 individuals with disabilities served by the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities visited Kings Island for free thanks to the support of generous community members.
Now in its second year, the Kings Island DD event saw significant growth, expanding from 40 attendees in its first year to over 100 this year. Each participant received free admission and parking to the amusement park, ensuring they have access to an inclusive and memorable experience at one of Ohio’s top amusement parks. Events like these promote community integration and connection.
The event was made possible by the generous support of local community members, Homeland Security, Mike’s Carwash of Loveland, and Rivers Crossing Church.
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Interested in attending the next event?
Please complete the survey below to receive news about future Kings Island events.
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Jingle Bell Bash
Saturday, December 3
10:30 to 11:30 a.m.
Warren C. Young Center
801 Drake Rd., Lebanon
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Join us for a fun-filled event that will include singing, dancing, storytime, and crafts. Don't forget to grab a holiday stuffed animal, book, and snack before you go!
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Holiday Painting Class
Saturday, December 13
6 to 7:30 p.m.
Warren C. Young Center
801 Drake Rd., Lebanon
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This Holiday Watercolor Painting class is free and includes all supplies needed to make a holiday painting. Participants can also take-home supplies! Light refreshments included.
Questions? Contact Claire Bishop at claire.bishop@warrencountydd.org or (513) 335-1026
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Ugly Sweater Party
Monday, December 15
6 p.m.
Warren C. Young Center
801 Drake Rd., Lebanon
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Join us for:
-DJ Phil and a holiday singalong!
-Pizza, drinks, and cookies!
-Craft stations!
-The ugly ornament hunt!
-Ugly sweater contest!
This event is intended for individuals 14 years and older who receive services from WCBDD.
Questions? Contact Rhonda Schutte at Rhonda.schutte@warrencountydd.org or (513) 806-3809.
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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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Early Childhood News
Welcome to our Early Childhood Services Section
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The Early Childhood Team at the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) is dedicated to supporting families and children under the age of six who are enrolled in our services. We provide a wide range of supports, including:
✅ Early Intervention (EI) services
✅ Family socialization events
✅ Parent and caregiver education
✅ Community education and outreach
👶 About Our Early Childhood Programs
Our Early Childhood Programs fall under the Community Resources Division. The cornerstone of these programs is Early Intervention, which represents the largest portion of the services we offer.
In partnership with the Warren County Educational Service Center (WCESC), we ensure each child referred for EI services under Part C of the Individuals with Disabilities Education Act (IDEA) receives a comprehensive and impartial evaluation. Together, our team works closely with families to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan (IFSP) tailored to each child’s unique strengths and needs.
💡 What EI Services Include
WCBDD serves approximately 400 children and families each month through Early Intervention. Our EI team includes experts in:
- Special Instruction provided by Developmental Specialists
- Physical Therapy, Speech-Language Pathology, and Occupational Therapy
We offer services through a Primary Service Provider (PSP) or Secondary Service Provider (SSP) model, depending on family needs. Most importantly, services are delivered within your family’s everyday routines and natural environments, helping you apply strategies in real-life moments.
Using a coaching approach, our providers work with families and caregivers to build their confidence and capacity to support their child’s growth every day.
We’ve had an exciting and productive few months here at WCBDD, and we’re thrilled to share some of the standout moments from our Early Childhood programs! Check out what we’ve been up to:
| | We’re celebrating the incredible achievements of the families and children we work with! At WCBDD, we’re 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’s improved communication, walking independently, or making new friends, every step forward is worth celebrating! We are excited to shout out Goal Crushing News of two families: | | | |
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Jensen recently had surgery for a tethered spinal cord and is back playing hockey! He has made some great progress in the area of communication, and loves to say the words: “Goalie.” “Puck.” “Go.” “Goal!”
Way to go, Jensen and family!
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These incredible twin girls who were born at 31 weeks' gestation are currently 16 months old. They have already shown us the power of resiliency and sisterly love. Following birth, Evy was later diagnosed with mild left hemiplegia. While her sister Ellie has recently started walking, what has been fun to watch is how she instinctively encourages and supports Evy—always reaching back, slowing down, and cheering her on.
Their bond is a beautiful example of how in the earliest years of twins, every milestone mastered can be a shared experience. The journey the family has been on in the last year has been a great reminder that while progress can look different in every child, the twin girls’ growth and development has been powered by a loving family, dedicated care of medical professionals, and the support of their Early Intervention Team coaching them every step of the way.
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📰 Welcome to Early Intervention Newsletter
Designed especially for newly enrolled families, the Welcome to Early Intervention Newsletter is a helpful resource full of information about our services and what to expect. Whether you’re just starting with us or want a better understanding of what we offer, it’s a great place to start.
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📰 3-5 Questionnaire - Help Us Grow and Improve!
We’re committed to continually improving the services we offer to all families. Currently, we are seeking more information regarding needs for families of children ages 3 to 5. Your feedback is incredibly valuable to us.
Please take a moment to complete this short questionnaire and let us know what you were
looking for or are currently looking for children was the ages of 3 and 5.
| | Early Childhood Open Play: That’s a Wrap for our 2025 sessions! | | We were so excited to welcome families back for Early Childhood Open Playtime—a fun and relaxed opportunity for children to play, explore, and socialize in a supportive environment. Families of children birth to age 6 who are enrolled in WCBDD services joined us on our playground for lots of fun and connections! | | |
🌳 Friday Friends at the Park: That’s a Wrap for our 2025 sessions!
Last summer, we launched a brand-new opportunity for families of children birth to age 6 who are enrolled in WCBDD services to connect—and we were thrilled to bring back Friday Friends at the Park in 2025. Friends at the Park was a great way to get some sunshine, playtime, and make meaningful connections. This event is a great way for children and caregivers to enjoy the outdoors and make new friends!
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This year we met up with families at different parks throughout Warren County. We found that a few parks to draw in more people, so we will take that into consideration for next year. Stay tuned in 2026 for a Friday Friends event near you. Check out a couple pictures from this year!
| | Upcoming social activity: 🧒 Jingle Bell Rock Out! 🎸Save the Date! | | |
Event Details
📅 Date: Saturday, December 6th, 2025
⏰ Time: 10:30-11:30 AM
📍 Location: WCBDD Warren C. Young Center,
801 Drake Rd. Lebanon, Ohio 45036
This free event is for families of enrolled children birth to age 6. Join us for a fun-filled morning featuring The Voices of Warren County Choir singing seasonal tunes along with some of your favorite songs, story time with Mrs. Margaret, and don’t forget to grab a holiday stuffed animal, book and snack for each child before you go!
More details to come – mark your calendars now! Registration will be required! Please RSVP by Dec. 1.
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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.
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 - 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.
Literacy, Libraries, and Outdoor Fun
Ohio Imagination Library - Sign up for free monthly book deliveries for children from birth to age five.
Warren County Ohio, Libraries - Explore resources, programs, and events available at your local public library.
Warren County Ohio, Parks - Discover parks, trails, and family-friendly outdoor activities across the county.
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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 serve your family throughout 2025 and we are working hard to plan for 2026!
Warmly,
The Early Childhood Team
Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities
For any questions or additional information regarding Early Childhood Services, please contact:
| | On September 24th, WCBDD invited Jim Jones back to perform some of Elvis' greatest hits! After the show, Lebanon High School's Women's Soccer Team served ice cream to our individuals for the ice cream social that took place in the gym. | On October 24th, we hosted our Halloween movie night. Guests had the option to vote for Jurassic Park, The Meg, and Tremors. Jurassic Park won the vote! We had candy, popcorn, and soda for everyone to enjoy. | | On October 13th, we hosted our 10th annual Trunk or Treat! We had a huge turnout and saw so many great costumes and decorated trunks! Our best decorated “Trunks” went to the Beetlejuice JEEP and the Zygowicz family with their “Alien” theme! | Cardio Drumming is BACK! On October 28th, some attendees came to class dressed in their Halloween costumes. November 25th is the last Cardio Drumming class of the year but will return January 2026. | | | | |
