Services and Supports in Time of Need
2025-03-13 18:00 - 19:00 UTC
Event Info
Services And Supports In Time Of Need
March 6th, 6:00-7:00pm
Participants will gain an awareness of services and supports available to families of children with disabilities from local schools, and from state, local agencies. This training brings together experts from various fields, including psychologists, Legal Aid Society, and social services agencies among others. The round table conversations will help families to be prepared in emergency situations, will provide tips in how to make an emergency plan for the family, organized important documents, and how to find resources and supports will be discussed. Attend the session
CtLC – Integrated Supports Star
March 13th, 6:00-700 pm
The second session will also introduce the Integrated Delivery of Supports Star from Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) framework, offering practical strategies to help families access and integrate different types of support for a more secure and stable future. Attend the session
No registration required – anyone can attend these events! Presented by: OCECD Multicultural Team and Deb Petermann – The Center for Disability Empowerment Please submit reasonable accommodations 5 days in advance to the event. This training is available in English, Spanish, and Somali.
https://www.ocecd.org/
844-382-5452

Macluumaadka Dhacdada
ADEEGYADA IYO TAAGEERADA
XILLIGA BAAHIDA
6-da Maarso, 6:00-7:00 fiidnimo
Ka qaybgalayaasha waxay heli doonaan wacyigelin ku saabsan adeegyada iyo taageerada laga heli karo qoysaska carruurta naafada ah ee ka imaanaya iskuullada deegaanka, iyo hay’adaha dowliga ah iyo kuwa deegaanka. Tababarkan wuxuu isku keenayaa khubaro ka kala socda meelo kala duwan, oo ay ku jiraan cilmi-nafsiga, Ururka Caawinta Sharciga, iyo hay’adaha adeegyada bulshada, iyo kuwo kale. Kulammada miiska wareega ah waxay ka caawin doonaan qoysaska inay isku diyaariyaan xaaladaha degdegga ah, waxayna siin doonaan talooyin ku saabsan sida loo sameeyo qorshe degdeg ah oo qoyska ah, sida loo habeeyo dukumentiyada muhiimka ah, iyo sida loo helo khayraadka iyo taageerada oo laga hadli doono.
Ka Qayb Gal Tababarka
CtLC – Xiddigga
Taageerada Isku Dhafan
13-ka Maarso, 6:00-7:00 pm
Kullanka labaad wuxuu sidoo kale soo bandhigi doonaa Xiddigga
Bixinta Taageerada Isku Dhafan ee ka socda qaab-dhismeedka Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC), isagoo bixinaya istaraatiijiyado wax ku ool ah oo ka caawinaya qoysaska inay helaan oo isku daraan noocyada kala duwan ee taageerada si mustaqbal ammaan ah oo deggan loo helo.
Ka Qayb Gal Tababarka
Looga baahan yahay diiwaangelin-qof walba wuu ka qeyb qaadan karaa dhacdooyinkan!
Waxaa soo bandhigay: Kooxda Dhaqamada
Badan ee OCECD iyo Deb Petermann – Xarunta Empowerment-ka Naafada
Fadlan soo gudbi hagitaan macquul ah 5 maalmood kahor dhacdada.
Tababarkani wuxuu diyaar u yahay Ingiriis, Isbaanish, iyo Soomaali.
https://www.ocecd.org/
844-382-5452

Información del Evento
SERVICIOS Y APOYOS EN TIEMPOS DE NECESIDAD
6 de marzo, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
Los participantes obtendrán conocimiento sobre los servicios y apoyos disponibles para las familias de niños con discapacidades, ofrecidos por las escuelas locales y por agencias estatales y locales.
Esta capacitación reúne a expertos de diversos campos, incluyendo psicólogos, la Sociedad de Asistencia Legal y agencias de servicios sociales, entre otros.
Las conversaciones en mesa redonda ayudarán a las familias a estar preparadas para situaciones de emergencia, proporcionando consejos sobre cómo crear un plan de emergencia familiar, organizar documentos importantes y encontrar recursos y apoyos disponibles.
Asistir a la capacitación
CtLC – Estrella de Apoyos Integrados
13 de marzo, 6:00-7:00 p.m.
La segunda sesión también presentará la Estrella de Entrega
Integrada de Apoyos del marco
Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC), ofreciendo estrategias prácticas para ayudar a las familias a acceder e integrar diferentes tipos de apoyo para un futuro más seguro y estable.
Asistir a la capacitación
No se requiere registro-icualquiera puede participar en estos eventos!
Presentado por: Equipo Multicultural de OCECD y Deb Petermann – The
Center for Disability Empowerment
Por favor, envíe las solicitudes de adaptaciones razonables con 5 días de anticipación al evento.
Esta capacitación está disponible en inglés, español y somalí.
https://www.ocecd.org/
844-382-5452

Inclusive Family Fun Fair
2025-03-15 11:00 - 14:00 | Heath Middle School, 310 Licking View Dr, Heath, OH, 43056, United States
2025 Family Fun Fair Flyer for families
CDE will have a table and staff available at this event. Flyer text reads – The Licking Regional ESC invites you to the Inclusive Family Fun Fair – Heath Middle School – Saturday, March 15, 11:00am – 2:00pm. Find and connect with resources, services, educational opportunities, and many programs available in and around Licking County. Open to all districts and communities. Free entry and activities! Exciting games and activities, bounce houses, door prizes, food & refreshments for purchase. For further details, feel free to reach out to us via email at rgerber@laca.org. The LRESC and Heath City Schools do not endorse any of the vendors at the fair. We feel it is best for families to decide what supports and services are right for them.

What's for Dinner?
2025-03-25 18:30 - 19:30
Flyer text – What’s for Dinner? 6:30-7:30pm, Tuesday, March 25, 2025
It’s free! Mealing planning made easy by working with what’s in your pantry right now! Step One: Click to add ingredients you have at home. Step Two: See recipes that only use those ingredients. Step Three: Decide what’s for dinner! Recipes available in 20 languages!
To register ahead: Registration Link
SuperCook Logo
To request reasonable accommodations to fully paricipate, please send a request at least 5 days in advance. Maddy Randolph – mrandolph@disabilityempowerment.net
Ever have a time when you need to stretch your pantry food until your next payday or income check? Maybe you ask yourself what can I make with what I have? If this is occasionally you … join CDE for this free webinar to show you how to use the free phone app SuperCook or check it out online https://www.supercook.com/#/desktopHere is the registration link for this opportunity to help you in a pinch. Great informaiton for independent living skills.https://us06web.zoom.us/…/register/ua5O52kxST6S8nKlfOOsRA

Empower YOUth Meeting
2025-03-26 18:00 - 19:30 | Columbus Metropolitan Library – Hilliard Branch, 4500 Hickory Chase Way, Hilliard, 43026, United States
Empower_Youth_Flyer_SEPT24_2 (1)
EmpowerYOUth – Make connections, Try new things, Find belonging, Grow your self-expression. All are welcome here. ALL MEETINGS On the last Wednesday of each month from 6pm-7:30pm. In-person meetings with option for joining virtually. Can’t join in-person? Email Maddy Mathias, Youth Transition Coordinator, for a link: mrandolph@disabilityempowerment.net. Our EmpowerYouth program is a space for youth with and without disabilities to learn, grow, advocate, and belong. The Center for Disability Empowerment. 614-575-8055 | www.disabilityempowerment.net

Empowering Black & Brown Mothers/Guardians of Children with Disabilities: Strengthening Advocacy & Communication using Charting the LifeCourse
2025-04-15 19:00 - 20:00
CDE_BlackBrown_Mothers_2025
Flyer Content –
Logo of the Center for Disability Empowerment and a photo of a black woman holding flowers while hugging a very happy child.
Empowering Black & Brown Mothers/Guardians of Children with Disabilities: Strengthening Advocacy & Communication using Charting the LifeCourse
April 15, 2025 | 7PM-8PM
Learn how to use the Charting the LifeCourse One Page Person Centered Description to map your child’s unique abilities, aspirations, needs, fostering clear, collaborative communication with educators and support teams.
Why are the Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) Tools Effective?
Image of the LifeCourse One Page Person Centered Description
• By focusing on what matters most to the child, CtLC turns advocacy into a proactive, empowering process—not just a reaction to challenges.
• Strengthens Communication: Translates abstract needs into concrete, relatable language.
• Builds Parent Confidence: Provides structure for advocating without feeling overwhelmed.
• Drives Collaboration: Creates a common language between families and professionals.
Click here to register
Image of Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities Logo and Image of Charting the LifeCourse Logo
Presenter & Panel:
Photo of a black woman with glasses: Brandi Muhammad, Presenter and Northwest Ohio Information Specialist, Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities, Charting the LifeCourse Ambassador
Photo of a black woman with glasses: Rhedeshia Young-Willingham, State Support Team CYPD Consultant
Photo of a a black woman with glasses: Renita Porter, Central State University Extension Family and Consumer Sciences (FCS) Program
Photo of a black woman: Monica McCain, Special Education Parent Liaison, CtLC Ambassador
Reasonable Accommodation 5 Days in Advance for this Event: Debra Petermann | 614-575-8055 | dpetermann@disabilityempowerment.net

Universal Design in Learning: Educating All Learners In and Beyond the Classroom
2025-04-17 10:00 - 15:00 | Westerville Community Center, 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH, 43082, United States
Universal-Learning_APR25

Universal Design in Learning: Educating All Learners In and Beyond the Classroom
Thurs. | April 17, 2025 10AM to 3PM
Westerville Community Center 350 N. Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH 43082 Lunch provided for a small fee
Registration Link
Who should attend? K-12 Administrators and Teachers, Educators and staff in Summer programs, After School programs, Arts and Recreation programs, Parents
Morning Keynote with Dr. Paula Kluth (Virtual Presenter) Dwelling in Possibility: The Values, Beliefs, & Habits of Inclusive Schools
This session is inspired by the poet, Emily Dickinson, who wrote, “I dwell in possibility.” We will explore the history and current state of inclusive schooling as we apply Dickenson’s reflection. Dr. Kluth will also discuss a vision for the future of this social justice movement and how inclusion practices will help educators succeed in educating, challenging, motivating, and supporting all learners.
Afternoon Session with Dawn Bentley (In Person) explores in-depth strategies for accommodating all learners in any setting (classrooms, after school programs, summer programs, library and museum programs and more) through universal design.
Presenter Bios
Paula Kluth – Keynote Speaker Paula, a former K-12 educator, is the founding member and principal consultant for Inclusion Rules LLC. She is a consultant, author, advocate, and independent scholar who works with teachers and families to provide inclusive opportunities for students with disabilities and to create more responsive and engaging schooling experiences for all learners. Paula has also been a university professor and has taught courses on inclusive education and disability studies. Her professional interests include Universal Design for Learning, co-teaching, and educating students with complex support needs.
Dawn Bentley – Strategies Presenter Dawn has more than 20 years experience in the education field, as an early intervention and developmental therapist and consultant, and as a director in the nonprofit sector of the disability field. Dawn began consulting firm, CAIRE, LLC (Community Access Inclusion Representation and Equity), in 2021, that works with local community organizations who have an interest in accessibility and inclusion. Dawn is a member of the Human Relations Commission for the City of Toledo and is a founding member of the DEAI Alliance of Northwest Ohio.
Deadline for registration is April 11th. For meeting accommodations contact Chrissy Bailey at cbailey@disabilityempowerment.net

Empower YOUth Meeting
2025-04-30 18:00 - 19:30 | Columbus Metropolitan Library – Franklinton Branch, 1061 W. Town St., Columbus, OH, 43222, United States

Call for Sponsors
2025-07-11
We are pleased to invite you to be part of the central Ohio area 35th Anniversary celebration of the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA), landmark civil rights legislation. This milestone event will honor the progress we’ve made, recognize the challenges that remain, and celebrate the individuals and organizations who have dedicated themselves to advancing disability rights and equality.
The 35th ADA Anniversary celebration is scheduled for July 11, 2025, in Columbus.
The day will culminate with a keynote address by Rebecca Cokley, program officer for the Ford Foundation’s first-ever U.S. Disability Rights program, which is focused on strengthening the field, building a pipeline of diverse leadership, promoting disability pride, and mobilizing resources toward disability rights work.
As a sponsor of this special event, your organization will have the unique opportunity to align with a powerful cause that impacts millions of lives across the nation. By partnering with us, you’ll not only demonstrate your commitment to advancing disability rights but also gain significant exposure to a broad audience. We have curated a variety of sponsorship packages that offer valuable benefits, including recognition in event materials, social media shout-outs, and prominent placement during the celebration.
We would be honored to have your support as we come together to commemorate this historic achievement and continue the journey toward a more inclusive future. Please feel free to contact Jackie Martin at 614-362-4286 to discuss partnership opportunities or to request further details or simply click this link:
https://disabilityempowerment.networkforgood.com/events/83432-35th-ada-anniversary-sponsorship?fbclid=IwY2xjawJH6XRleHRuA2FlbQIxMAABHScwHc3jhMXhz4vT-e2iefPzjKRlfKGBFAs-dH5lWgKXfeuUle5HpDRERg_aem_z3-ZRnQyZFnEbC5zdMi5qg
We look forward to the possibility of working together to make the 35th Anniversary of the ADA a resounding success!
On behalf of the 35th ADA Anniversary Celebration Planning Committee, thank you!

Save The Date! 35th Anniversary Celebration of the Americans with Disabilities Act
2025-07-11 18:00 - 21:00 | Columbus Museum of Art, 480 East broad Street, Columbus, OH, 43215, United States
You are cordially invited to join us as we honor and celebrate the 35th Anniversary of
the Americans with Disabilities Act
Doors open at 6 p.m.
6 to 7: Drinks and Hors d'oeuvres. Enjoy entertainment and Tom Olin photo exhibit
7 to 8: Program, Essay Contest Winners, Keynote Rebecca Cokley
8 to 9: Mingle, drinks and hors d’oeuvres, entertainment and Tom Olin photo exhibit
All are welcome.
There is no charge for attending this event, however, registration is required.*
Interpreters and CART sponsored by Ohio Statewide Independent Living Council.
Keynote Speaker: Rebecca Cokley, Program Officer Ford Foundation’s first-ever U.S.
Disability Rights program
*To register, to become a sponsor, or for expanded event information, please scan the
QR code or visit: Here
Event sponsored by:
Gold Investment:
Centene Corporation/Buckeye Health Plan
Silver Investment:
Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Greater
Columbus Arts Council, Phyllis Newman
Bronze Investment:
Down Syndrome Association of Central Ohio/ElevateDD, Disability
Rights Ohio
Champions of the ADA: Ohio Olmstead Task Force (OOTF), Ohio Provider Resource
Association (OPRA), The Arc of Ohio, Elford
Friends of the ADA:
Center for Disability Empowerment, State Representative Christine
Cockley, Harry Apostolos
(Additional sponsors are added to the registration page as they are received)
Celebrating 35 years of Helping Ohio Become Accessible for Everyone.
Friday, July 11, 2025
6:00pm – 9:00pm
Great Lakes ADA Center
480 E. Broad St., Columbus 43215
Contact Jackie at jmartin@disabilityempowerment.net

Click to open PDF

FCBDD Provider and Community Resource Fair
2025-09-02 13:00 - 19:00 | 717 E 17th AveColumbus, OH 43211, 717 E 17th Ave, Columbus, 43211, United States
The 2025 Franklin County DD Provider and Community Resource Fair is set for Tuesday, Sept. 2, in Kasich Hall at the Ohio Expo Center.
The free event allows people with disabilities, families and caregivers to connect in person with dozens of service providers, community-resource organizations and — new this year — employers.
The Center for Disability Empowerment will have a table with information at the event.

2025 DCBDD Block Party & Provider Fair
2025-09-04 16:00 - 19:00 | 7560 Gooding Blvd, 7560 Gooding Blvd, Delaware, OH, 43035, United States
DCBDD’s annual Block Party & Provider Fair occurs on the Thursday after Labor Day and brings together people supported by DCBDD, their families, providers, and our community partners for a day of celebration of all that Delaware County has to offer!
The Center for Disability Empowerment will have a table with information at the event.

Olde Towne East Jazz Festival 2025
2025-09-14 13:00 - 17:00 | Blackburn Park and Recreation Center, 263 Carpenter St, Columbus, OH, 43205, United States
OTE 2025 Flyer PDF
The Center for Disability Empowerment will have a table with information at the event on Saturday, September 13th from 1pm-5pm.

Inclusive Opportunity Fair
2025-09-17 18:00 - 20:00 | Westerville Community Center, 350 N Cleveland Ave, Westerville, OH, 43082, United States
InclusiveOpportunityFair 2025 (1)
The Center for Disability Empowerment will have a table with information at the event.
