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Assets and Neighbors

Fairfield DD is one of six statewide demonstration sites in the Ohio Microenterprise & Customized Employment Demonstration Project (MCED) chosen by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission. In addition to Fairfield DD, the other demonstration sites include the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Linking Employment, Abilities & Potential (LEAP), Goodwill Industries of Northwest Ohio, Inc., Columbus Speech & Hearing Center, and the Burdman Group, Inc.

The program is a comprehensive effort combining resources from Griffin-Hammis Associates, LLC, and collaborators from Pennsylvania, West Virginia, Indiana, Virginia, Georgia and Minnesota. Here in Ohio, the program is capitalizing on the extensive network capabilities of Ohio APSE.

Now referred to as Assets and Neighbors, “this new program fits well as one of our many Innovation Initiatives,” said Superintendent John Pekar. “It provides the resources needed to enhance our customized employment and micro-enterprise efforts and provides additional funding streams and choices for the individuals we serve.”

The initiative is designed to develop, demonstrate and support the phased implementation of a financially, technically and programmatically viable approach to community employment of choice for Ohioans with disabilities. Specifically, this initiative will:

4. Provide vital statewide Immersion Training sessions on Discovery (assessment), Business Planning, and employment strategies for under-served  groups (people with autism, psychiatric disabilities, TBI, sensory disabilities).

The Fairfield County Community Action Team has established the following purpose statements for the local effort:

4. To utilize flexible strategies and tactics that increase individualized employment opportunities for people with significant disabilities.

Three basic premises constitute the rationale for each main purpose.  They are:

For more information on Assets and Neighbors, contact Bob Gaston, Director of Adult Services Options, at 740.652.7220 or by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .  In addition, there is now an Assets and Neighbors Resource Connections blog that can be accessed by clicking HERE.

Bridges to Transitions

Bridges to Transition is designed to provide training and resources needed to ensure a successful transition from school to work for individuals with developmental disabilities ages 14-22.  The goal is to provide independent customized employment opportunities for  students at the time of graduation.

Services include:

“The Discovery Process,”  which is a process of learning what the student wants to do, their strengths, what jobs are available, areas to work on, how to dress for work/appropriate hygiene, how to interview for a job, job coaching, job development, and follow along services to help them keep their job once working.

Educating individuals families, and school districts about the training and employment options for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Developing a plan of employment that fits each individual's needs.

Monitoring the progress of each individual and ensuring that the plan fits his or her needs.

Providing education about the effects of employment on SSI/SSDI benefits and/or the Ohio Medicaid Card, if applicable.

Coordinating services with school districts in order for the individual to make an easy transition from school to work upon graduation.

Bridges to Transition is a partnership between the Fairfield, Hocking, & Perry County Boards of Developmental Disabilities,the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC), Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB), school districts, employers, students and their families.

Services are coordinated through The Employment Connection.

For more information please contact:  Susan Barnett, Fairfield DD Transition Coordinator, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone at  740.652.7230.

Business and Employment Incubator

Art & Clay on Main

Site houses arts and business incubator as well as the Blue Shoe Arts studio and gallery

The Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities purchase the business assets of Art & Clay on Main in 2010, a business that on Main Street in Lancaster that has housed the ceramics studio and gallery since 1999.

Fairfield DD operates the business as a creative arts and business "incubator" for individuals with disabilities, and also continues the retail ceramics operation and hopes to continue serving individual artists, groups and county schools with specialty art classes. In addition, Blue Shoe Arts Studio and Gallery, supported by Fairfield DD, moved into the space from its former location at the Opportunity Center on Coonpath Road in Carroll.

"We talked about finding space outside our Opportunity Center building so that Blue Shoe Arts could play a more active role in Lancaster and Fairfield County's vibrant arts and cultural community," said John Pekar, Superintendent of Fairfield DD. "With the purchase of Art & Clay on Main, we saw an opportunity to move into a turnkey situation and work with the former ownership to continue their good work, while at the same time expanding employment and social opportunities for individuals we support."

Art & Clay and FairfieldDD had partnered in the past. Blue Shoe Arts had exhibited work at the downtown space for a number of years, and had been the focus of Lancaster Festival ArtWalk shows in both 2008 and 2009. In addition, groups from both the Opportunity Center, which provides a day program for adults with disabilities, and Forest Rose School, both of which are operated by Fairfield DD,  have worked on ceramic projects at the downtown business.

“This is a fantastic opportunity and I’m pleased that the mission of Art & Clay lives on,” said Becky Hajost, former owner who started the Art & Clay concept. “I’m also excited to be involved in a transition and advisory role as they work with the many downtown museums, as well as schools and churches throughout the community. I’m also excited that Art & Clay will continue to be part of the downtown landscape and become a lynchpin of future development as community leaders create a vision for what the downtown business district can become.”

Fairfield DD looks forward to the role that the Art & Clay and Blue Shoe collaboration can play in the city’s vision, as well.

"We're excited about the opportunity to have our artists become part of the downtown community," said Ray Schmidt, Adult Services Program Manger with Fairfield DD. "It's extremely valuable for us to have our artists interact with not only other artists but with the entire community."

In addition to serving as the new home for Blue Shoe, the business continues to offer classes and welcome both individuals and groups into the ceramics studio to work on projects, serving as "Lancaster's own INclusive arts OUTlet." The Board is currently discussing additional options, such as a small cafe, to occupy the space, as well as offering regular community social events.

"This is more about empowering people with disabilities to earn a better living and become “of” the community than anything else," said Pekar. "Blue Shoe Arts has been very successful, but we felt we needed to take the next step that would allow the artists to lead more fulfilling lives. In this model, they can take a more active role as part owners of the business."

The new concept operated by Fairfield DD does not have the same profit pressure as a traditional business. Its goal is to meet operating expenses.

"Our purpose here is to provide jobs and training for people with disabilities," said Pekar. "It's similar to our partnership to operate THE ZONE at Ohio University-Lancaster.

"Our goal is “social profit,” such as providing employment opportunities and community involvement, not just for the  artists but  for other individuals we support. This gives them the opportunity to become a part of the fabric of the community."

For more information on Art & Clay on Main, visit the website at www.artandclayonmain.com, or contact Temple Custer Montanez, General Manager, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone at 740.653.1755.

Community Connections

Beginning January 2012, Fairfield DD will begin a new initiative geared to developing community connections for individuals. This initiative will assist individuals to explore and develop social opportunities and establish connections with other members of the community, based on their interests and passions.

Community Connections is rooted in Fairfield DD's belief that:

A vibrant community offers many opportunities for all of its members.

Everyone has his or her own personal genius.

The sum of everyone's personal genius contributes to the vibrancy of the community.

People gather together to share their interests, passions, and desire for human connectedness.

Community Connections is a way for people, regardless of ability, to join with others to explore their interests and passions, to meet others who share a common link, to discover their personal genius, and to contribute to the vibrancy of the community.

We look forward to this exciting new venture, and invite you back to this page to follow the rollout of Community Connections!

Discovery in Customized Employment

Staff members from Fairfield DD have participated in extensive and ongoing training and are excellent at providing Customized Employment/Discovery as a an alternative method of finding employment for some individuals served.

Customized Employment refers to paid employment opportunities that are matched and negotiated to meet the job seeker’s needed conditions for success and an employer’s needs in ways that satisfies both parties.  It is based on an individualized determination of an individual’s strengths, interests, preferences and accommodation and support needs.  This individual determination is called the Discovery process.

The Discovery process uses a team approach to get to know the person beyond the public face presented.  Team members participate in the many stages of discovery which include an initial family visit, a Discovery team meeting, interviews, and observations which result in a Positive Personal Profile which identifies vocation themes and opportunities to be pursued for the individual.  The process also includes another team meeting called the Employment Planning Team Meeting where the Profile is shared and team members identify vocational themes and options that can be pursued.

The initial family visit in an opportunity to explain the Discovery/Customized Employment process to the family and to begin learning about the individual’s interests, chores completed in the home, community activities that the person participates in, friends and transportation options.  The family identifies team members who are available to participate in the process who are then invited to the Discovery Team Meeting.  An example of a completed Positive Personal Profile/Employment Planning Summary is shared with the family in order to familiarize them with the end result of the Discovery process.

A neighborhood observation is also conducted to identify potential social and vocational opportunities that may possibly match the interests of the individual that are close to home.

The Discovery Team meeting brings together team members to discuss the individual’s strengths, talents, interests, personality traits, habits/routines, activities, dislikes, and needed accommodations and supports.  Team members are asked to conduct interviews with teachers, staff and/or other people who know the individual well, or to observe the individual in familiar and unfamiliar social and vocational environments.  All information gathered is documented and begins to form the contents of the Positive Personal Profile.

Interviews that are conducted with staff and/or others help to identify the individual’s learning style and provide a baseline for understanding the individual’s employability skills.  It verifies and expands on understanding the individual’s interests and accommodation and support needs.

Social observations are arranged and provide opportunities for team members to observe and note the individual’s connections with others, communication style, activities in which the individual participates, environmental conditions which are important to the individual, things to avoid or dislikes, and supports needed.

Vocational observations are arranged in employment opportunities that match the individual’s stated interests.  They consist of one to three 2-3 hour job try-outs where the individual can partake in specific job tasks that are identified as those matching the skills of the individual.  Notes are taken during those observations that capture information that indicate the motivation of the individual, skill levels, the quality of their performance in terms of pace, correctness, stamina, skill level and employability skills.

All information obtained during the many stages of Discovery are summarized in the Positive Personal Profile which summarized the individual’s interest and preferences.

Discovery also identifies the conditions necessary for successful employment based on the individual’s complexities and individual preferences.  Conditions are features that need to be in place in order for the individual to be their best and to make the greatest contribution to the workplace.  Conditions also include finding out the type of task supports needed, the time of day that works best, environmental characteristics of the worksite, flow of work/pace, and the length of the work shift.  Discovery looks at what an individual does, how he/she does it, what works, what doesn’t work, and where he/she is most motivated.   All of this information in captured into a Positive Personal Profile which ultimately assists a job developer and job coach in job placement and the provision of worksite supports.

The Customized Employment/Discovery process is ideal for individuals with complex challenges.  It captures information in a positive way, yet identifies information about the accommodation and support needs of the individual in a way that enhances the individual’s chances of successful employment.

Though starting with Customized Employment, Fairfield DD plans in the future to extend the Discovery process to all individuals served. Fairfield DD plans to hire a new position, Discovery Coordinator, in the first quarter of 2012.

Fairfield Transition Collaborative

The Fairfield Transition Collaborative, a countywide partnership, was developed in 2008 in order to collaborate as partners in developing, sharing and disseminating resources and implementing quality transition services. Since its inception it has become a statewide model for the provision of information on transition services to students, their parents, and all community partners so they will be able to participate fully in transition planning.  The Collaborative task force provides clarification of roles and responsibilities of the staffs of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities, school districts, the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, and other community agencies and advocacy groups.

The taskforce has two special projects to be completed by 2012:

1. Based on the results of the LEA Needs Assessment (Bridges to Adulthood document), school districts, in collaboration with the State Support Team, Region 11 and local community partners, will develop and disseminate cross training materials and resources describing the service delivery system, available to students with developmental disabilities as they transition from secondary school to adulthood.
2. To develop, conduct and analyze a needs assessment survey, targeting students, parents, and teachers who will identify needed post secondary supports (for both students and parents), materials and resources that are needed in order to assist students while in school.

The Collaborative task force meets at Ohio University in Lancaster approximately six times per year.  To attend or to obtain more information please contact Susan Barnett, Fairfield DD Transition Coordinator, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone at  at 740.652.7230.

Fairfield / Vinton Stategic Alliance

The Fairfield/Vinton Strategic Alliance was formalized in 2011 by the Fairfield and Vinton County Boards of Developmental Disabilities with the purpose of maintaining long-term sustainability of services and supports for persons with developmental disabilities in the two counties.

The Alliance is a collaboration of the two County Boards of Developmental Disabilities based upon common values and philosophies.  The Boards have determined to share administrative and programmatic resources and actively build a foundation upon which they conduct business in the future.  The Alliance strives for improved outcomes for individuals served via quality, uniformity, best practices, accessibility to resources, and cost savings.

The Alliance had its beginning in 2008 when the Superintendent of Vinton DD resigned.  The Vinton Board asked the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (OACBDD) to assist in determining its leadership strategy for the future.  After work and planning with OACBDD, Vinton DD determined that it wished to explore the shared services concept, and Vinton DD asked Fairfield DD if it would agree to share the services of its Superintendent.  Both Boards agreed to a trial period during which time they would share not only a Superintendent but also a Services and Supports Director as well.

This trial period lasted for three years, and when both Boards met jointly in the summer of 2011 they agreed that the demonstration was a success and moved to formally create the Fairfield/Vinton Strategic Alliance.

The foundation of the Alliance is the Memorandum of Understanding entered into by both Boards (click HERE to download the MOU). This MOU:

1. Demonstrates the commitment of the Boards to the Alliance going forward.
2. Assures each Board’s individual identity.
3. Calls for the development of cost allocation methodologies for shared services.
4. Addresses indemnity issues.

More than an attempt to find greater cost efficiencies, the Alliance also is working to elevate the quality of services and supports available to those it serves.

The benefits for Vinton DD were immediately obvious.  In the first year of the demonstration, Vinton DD was able to shift 7% of its annual budget from administrative expense to direct services and supports while gaining additional service and support expertise.  In addition, through the Alliance, Vinton DD has the ability to add human and technological resources it may have struggled to acquire alone.

The benefits for Fairfield DD, while less obvious, were nonetheless just as clear and more future-based.

For example, Fairfield DD has been planning for its future information technology needs, including the implementation of virtualization technology and electronic document imaging.

For example, Fairfield DD has been planning for its future information technology needs, including the implementation of virtualization technology and electronic document imaging.  Through the Alliance, each Board will share future planning and implementation cost while allowing a seamless flow of information between the Boards, at a lower cost to each as opposed to “going it alone.”

In addition, since the Alliance was formalized, a third position, in program support, began to be shared by both partners.  Vinton DD now shares part of the cost of this position that previously was borne 100% by Fairfield DD.

Debra Buccilla, Board President of Fairfield DD, stated “the formation of the Alliance has given us greater stability in our senior leadership, and provides us the opportunity to move toward the future with a partner that shares our philosophy and passion.”

John Timms, Board President of Vinton DD, said that the formation of the Alliance “has begun a cycle of continuous improvement for Vinton DD, provided additional tools and expertise we would have had difficulty getting on our own, and has shown the community that Vinton DD is committed to spending local tax dollars wisely.  I believe it was one of the reasons that Vinton DD was successful in its request for a levy renewal in 2010.”

Alliance work in 2012 will include:

1. Analyze the processes and human resources in both programs to determine additional opportunities for sharing, employing an “opportunity driven” approach.
2. Focusing on unifying systems and streamlining processes to achieve greater cost efficiencies in both counties.
3. Maximizing information technology.
4. Assuring that no sharing arrangement detracts from the individual identity or uniqueness of either program.

The Fairfield/Vinton Strategic Alliance owes a debt of gratitude to the BHN Alliance, a collaborative sharing effort between the Belmont, Harrison, and Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities.  The first sharing alliance formed between County Boards, the BHN Alliance provides invaluable insights and guidance to Fairfield DD and Vinton DD as we developed our strategic alliance.

Lancaster Sensory Trail

In 2008, a local, multi-agency group led by the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities envisioned a picturesque walking trail near Forest Rose School in Lancaster that was unlike any other.

It would be a trail that would have everything from life-size musical instruments to a boardwalk through a wetland to a wheelchair-accessible treehouse. The trail would not only be a fun place for the students at Forest Rose to spend their time, but the entire community could enjoy it as well.

On April 22, 2010, the multi-agency group celebrated the completion of the first phase of that project it helped envision in 2008, now known as the Lancaster Sensory Trail.

The project has been planned by a multi-agency group led primarily by the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the Fairfield County Soil and Water District,the U.S. Natural Resource Conservation Service, the City of Lancaster, the Southeast Ohio Center for Independent Living, and Heart of Ohio RC & D. It’s been developed with in-kind and cash donations, including more than$24,000 from the 2008 and 2009 Run for the Rose 5K races.

In April 2008, 20 volunteers completed a stream side clean-up. The first "Run for the Rose 5k Race," sponsored by a community volunteer group, was held in June 2008 to help raise funds for the trail. In August 2008, the extension of the asphalt bike/walking trail was completed by the Lancaster Department of Transportation, Shelley Materials, Spires Paving, and Lancaster Parks and Recreation. In the fall of 2008, the design for the sensory area was completed by Fairfield SWCD and NRCS staff. The sensory area contains a large concrete pad and three paver patios which showcase specific sensory stations. The concrete pad contains four large outdoor musical instruments, which were installed in the fall of 2009. There is an overlook to Fetter’s Run Creek from one of the patios. Staff also designed and implemented drainage improvements with help from Lancaster Parks and Recreation staff. The Heart of Ohio RC&D Council has been instrumental in facilitating the project and organizing project members into working committees.

Patios were installed through the efforts of the Lancaster Lowes and Nessley’s Lawn and Landscaping. The Lowes volunteers are "Lowes Heroes," part of the Lowes volunteer community improvement program. To date, Lowes Heroes have donated over 200 hours of work by placing gravel, framing the pathway for concrete, and setting the pavers for their patio.

Two future phases of this project will include a ground-level tree house to be located further north along the trail overlooking Fetter's Run, and a bridge over Fetter’s Run connecting the trail and school grounds with a restored wetland/prairie.

Phase I of the Lancaster Sensory Trail was named the 2009 Project of the Year by the North Central Association of Resource Conservation & Development (RC&D) Councils.

The award was presented on April 13, 2010 by Reed Madden, president of the Ohio Association of RC&D Councils, at the North Central Association of RC&D Councils’ Annual Conference atAtwood Lake Conference Center in Delroy, Ohio. Heart of Ohio RC&D is one of nine councils in Ohio.  Accepting the award were Vicki Kohli of the Fairfield County Soil and Water District and Jodi Blais, Fairfield DD’s Director of Educational Services.

“While this concept was conceived to help Forest Rose students by helping to stimulate their senses, it has certainly become something that the entire community uses and benefits from,” said Fairfield DD Superintendent John Pekar. “Our students use the trailand the musical instruments every day that weather permits, and we see people of all ages there at any given time of the day, especially in the evenings and on weekends. To see all those people using the trail, and then to receive this award, is very gratifying.”

To become a member of the "Friends of the Sensory Trail" or to find out more information about this exciting endeavor, please contact John Bosser, Community Outreach Coordinator, at 740.652.7220 or by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

LIFEWorks

LIFEWorks - Leveraging Internships For Employment - is a unique program that offers at least three paid internships to help individuals assess their career goals, with the ultimate goal of community employment at the end of the internships.  LIFEWorks services include job coaching, job development and placement, and follow along services.

Coordinated by Fairfield DD's Community Employment Services, LIFEWorks is available after high school graduation for individuals 18 to 25 years of age.

Internship sites to date include Giant Eagle, Ohio University-Lancaster, Fairfield Outlet, the Pickerington Chamber of Commerce, and many others, and this is what they have to say about LIFEWorks:

You have been a Godsend!  You've made it possible for us to get things done that we wouldn't be able to do with the labor dollars we have available!  Thank you!!!

- Fairfield Outlet

Most of the interns and trainees came to the Campus to with skills that we value, so we've served as mentors...polishing skills, helping to build self-confidence.  And while being part of this 'blossoming' process is rewarding, seeing them employed in the community or enrolled in classes, achieving their goals...is even better.

- Jenny LaRue, Ohio University - Lancaster

I'm not easily impressed, but you have impressed me!  You are doing a great job!

- Steve Suchan, Giant Eagle - Lancaster

It feels so good to know I'm leaving the office in such good hands!  I'm so glad we decided to try out this internship opportunity with the LIFEWorks program.

- Helen Mayle, President, Pickerington Chamber of Commerce.

LIFEWorks is a partnership between the Fairfield, Franklin, Hocking, Licking, and Union County Boards of Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission.

To discover the possibilities of LIFEWorks, contact Dianna Walters, Fairfield DD Community Employment Services Manager, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by telephone at 740.652.7230.

Project SEARCH

Project SEARCH is a business -led collaboration that enables young adults with disabilities to gain and maintain employment through training and career exploration!

Project SEARCH is a one year, high school transition program which provides training and education leading to employment for individuals with disabilities.  The program occurs on-site at a high status community business.  Project SEARCH serves as a workforce alternative for students in their last year of high school.  Three elective high school credits can be earned for successful completion of the Project SEARCH program.  Each student applies to the program and is accepted through a selection committee process.   Adults with disabilities may apply and be accepted if space is available.   All students must be eligible for services with the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission to participate.

The cornerstone of Project SEARCH is total immersion in a large business.  Each day, students report to the host business, learn employability skills in the classroom and job skills while participating in 3 – 4 internships/experiences during the year. If available, students utilize public transportation.  Students participate in monthly progress meetings to define their career goal and plan necessary steps to achieve that goal.

Managers at the internship sites work with the Project SEARCH instructor and job coaches to support the students.  Students get continual feedback from the internship manager, co-workers and Project SEARCH staff.  Students end their day by reflection, problem solving, planning and journaling their key learnings.  The ultimate goal upon program completion is competitive employment utilizing the skills learned on the internships and throughout the program.

Project SEARCH is a collaborative project of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools, Fairfield Medical Center, and the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission.

For more information about Project SEARCH, please contact Susan Barnett, Transition Coordinator, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or by phone at 740.652.7230.

Sponsored by:

TEN Process Description

Step 1: Commit to the process

A provider interested in beginning the recognized membership application process first studies TEN’s mission, vision and values to see whether they are a good fit. Then, to begin the application process, the applicant notifies the TEN contact person assigned to the county where the provider is seeking recognized membership of the intent to apply.

 Fairfield County: Nate Griffin, Director of Quality, Fairfield CBDD, 740-652-7220, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 Licking County: Chanda Busse, Director of Service Coordinator, Licking CBDD, 740-349-1420,  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 Hocking County: Matt Noble, Director of Community Supports and Services, Hocking CBDD, 740-385-6807, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 Perry County: Marci Jones, SSA Director, Perry CBDD, 740-342-0416, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

 MEORC: Kelly Ferenbaugh, Quality Assurance Specialist, 740 -507-8234, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

The local contact forwards the request to the local TEN group and arranges an introductory face-to-face meeting with the applicant representative to provide an overview of the process. The applicant and the local contact agree on a timeline for submitting an application, usually in 1-2 months.

Step 2: Prepare the application

The application has four parts:

 The organizational profile: This profile is a straightforward description of services the applicant provides. The review process focuses primarily on services within the county, but multi-county providers also describe the overall agency structure to give a wider context.

 Description of organizational processes: The applicant completes the self-study related to key processes and writes concise descriptions of processes. Processes are about HOW. The focus of these descriptions is not rule compliance. These descriptions help the review team determine how the applicant works toward high quality services that go above and beyond regulatory requirements.

 Description of organizational results: The applicant indicates the outcomes of services in key areas. It is helpful to supply figures documenting success, such as the number of people who have a valued experience, or the number of hours of the valued experience.

 Supporting documents to demonstrate rule compliance:

- Certification letter(s) from DODD;

- Past 2 semi-annual Major Unusual Incident (MUI) summaries prepared per DODD regulations;

- Past 6 months of Unusual Incident (UI) logs;

- Most recent Provider Compliance reviews for any services provided in counties in the TEN region;

- Most recent Medication Quality Assurance reviews at sites in the county of application;

- DODD notification of sanctions related to services in any county and any follow-up communication from DODD.

Step 3: Share the application with the local TEN group

The local TEN group identifies review team members who have the time and commitment to work with the applicant all the way through the review process. One review team member is designated as the facilitator for the review process. Review team members sign a Code of Conduct affirming their agreement to uphold standards of integrity, professional conduct, confidentiality and respect for intellectual property.

Once the application is complete, the review facilitator distributes it to other review team members and schedules a time for the review team and the applicant to meet.

While TEN strives for a review process that is fair and consistent, each applicant brings its own personality, approach and organizational culture. The review team considers the applicant’s uniqueness during the review process.

Step 4: Add information to the application as requested by the TEN review team

Even when it receives a complete application packet, the review team may have additional questions of the applicant. The review team may ask for additional clarification of information in the packet. The review team and the applicant agree on a timeline for presenting additional information. At that time, the review team and the applicant meet again to tie up loose ends.

Step 5: The TEN review team collects additional information

The local review team collects and reviews additional information specific to the TEN review process:

Stakeholder interviews: Review team members interview a number of family members, Individual Support Coordinators (ISCs) and other team members for individuals receiving services from the applicant, such as Adult Day Support providers who also serve individuals who receive Homemaker/Personal Care services. The purpose of these interviews is to identify any major “red flag” issues of concern.

Site visit observations: Review team members take an interactive approach to site visits that is distinct and different from a compliance approach. The focus is on quality of services and quality of life, not on rule adherence. Team members, whenever possible, make site visits in pairs. During site visits team members ask questions that give information not available from any other source.

Step 6: Come to agreement about recognized membership and develop a consensus report

The local review team makes a recommendation to the local TEN group and to the larger Excellence Network about whether to grant recognized member status. The local TEN group and The Excellence Network review the recommendation to make sure that standards are consistent across applications.

The review team facilitator prepares a summary report addressing the applicant’s accomplishments and opportunities for improvement. The report is not complete until the local review team and the applicant agree that it accurately reflects both accomplishments and opportunities.

Step 7: Develop a plan for performance improvement

An important part of recognized membership is continuous quality improvement on the part of the recognized member. The report gives the applicant valuable information about opportunities for improvement. The recognized member takes this feedback and develops a plan for performance improvement over the coming year.

Step 8: Work on performance improvement

Part of the responsibility of the local TEN group and of The Excellence Network generally is to support continuous quality improvement by all participants. TEN is a resource to help recognized members identify training and technical assistance designed to address identified opportunities for improvement. TEN occasionally organizes collaborative, performance-based training that distributes training costs over a larger group to bring the costs down for all.

Step 9: Share updates with the local TEN group

The recognized member and the local TEN group agree on a schedule for reporting on progress toward the performance improvement plan. These reports serve a dual purpose. They ensure progress by all recognized members, and they spur conversation among the local TEN group.  TEN members often find that others in the group have great ideas, and that conversations within the local TEN group represent an important vehicle for innovation.

Recognized membership stays in effect as long as the local group is satisfied with the member’s progress toward performance improvement goals. A change in a provider’s legal status could affect TEN recognized member status. If a provider gains or loses certification for a service or changes ownership, it is important to let the local TEN group know right away.

Step 10: Rework and improve the application (only if recognized membership was not granted at step 6)

Once an applicant completes performance improvement efforts designed to address concerns identified in the review process, the next step is to revise the application to reflect improvements and resubmit it to the local TEN group.

The Excellence Network

The Excellence Network (TEN) is dedicated to revolutionizing the culture of service delivery in Ohio. The purpose of The Excellence Network is "igniting and fueling a passion for living life to the fullest through learning, innovation and collaboration." TEN cultivates competent, passionate, well–trained and experienced service providers capable of promoting optimal health, well-being and community life among the people they serve. TEN also builds and promotes a consistent approach to services throughout the local and regional developmental disabilities system.

The Excellence Network is an initiative of four county boards of developmental disabilities – Fairfield, Hocking, Licking and Perry – and the Mid-East Ohio Regional Council of Governments (MEORC), a COG serving the four counties and 14 others. TEN began with an idea put forward by John Pekar, Superintendent of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities. The essence of the idea was that TEN would work with providers to improve service quality beyond what is required for compliance with administrative rules, and that individuals and families could rely on a provider’s participation in TEN as a sign of quality.

Building a system based on internal motivation, as envisioned by The Excellence Network, requires alternatives to the forms of power inherent in a regulatory system.  We must together co-create an excellent system.

The Excellence Network is committed to answering these daunting questions and challenges by supporting and providing guidance to local TEN groups. It serves as the sounding board for new ideas that arise through the work of the local group.

Role of the local TEN group

Each local TEN group promotes The Excellence Network’s mission, vision, and values within its county system. The group includes providers and other stakeholders with a direct interest in better service quality. Each local TEN group works independently in keeping with the mission, vision and values established by TEN.

Recognized membership

Recognized membership is awarded to a provider that successfully completes the application and review process with its local TEN group.  The review process is an opportunity to learn together, exchange information in a climate of collaboration, and promote innovation in services.  Its purpose is to create honest dialogue about the applicant's accomplishments and opportunities for improvement.

Goals for the recognized membership review process include:

• Produce an unbiased assessment of where providers stand;
• Determine and document service quality;
• Produce information understood and valued by family members;
• Maintain a high standard that providers do not yet achieve but are willing to work toward;
• Operate in accordance with TEN principles of innovation, collaboration and learning.

The review team does not expect perfection.  Successful applicants do:

• Commit to the mission, vision and values of The Excellence Network;
• Agree to share information about processes and results with the local TEN review team;
• Commit to ongoing quality improvement.

Recognized membership is one factor to consider when selecting a provider. It is not a substitute for the judgment of individuals and their allies about the best fit of a provider with customers’ requirements.

Recognized membership is valid only in the county where the review takes place. If the applicant wishes to have recognized status in more than one TEN county, the applicant submits an application in each county. Some information will apply across county lines. Local county TEN groups may decide to combine their work for a review extending to multiple counties.

For a description of the process to become a member of The Excellence Network, please click TEN Process Description.

Please click below to access documents that further explain The Excellence Network:

The Excellence Network Process Diagram

PATH for The Excellence Network

Ticket to Work

Ticket to Work helps people with disabilities who want to work, access employment, vocational rehabilitation (VR), and other support services from a variety of sources.  Individuals enrolled in a Social Security Disability program receive a “ticket” they can use for services from an Employment Network.  The Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities recently became an Employment Network. This provides funding to assist individuals with getting and keeping meaningful employment.

To discover the possibilities of Ticket to Work,  please contact Dianna Walters, Community Employment Services Manager, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at 740.652.7230.

University-Based Post-Secondary Opportunities

Fairfield DD and the Ohio University Lancaster Campus are teaming to develop a campus-based post-secondary opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities.  This new venture will focus on providing individuals a campus-based post-secondary experience, including social education, life and job skills, community connections, and building social confidence.  Individuals completing this post-secondary experience will receive a certificate of competency in a given career area and/or an Associate's Degree.

Representatives from Fairfield DD, OU-L, and community business partners, including local chambers of commerce, are currently working to bring this exciting new opportunity to fruition.  The current timetable for rollout is 2012.

If you have an interest in participating with us in the development of this new venture, please contact Susan Barnett, Transition Coordinator, at 740.652.7230, or via This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. .

We Go To Work

We Go to Work enhances employment options for persons with developmental disabilities.  The Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities offers Community-Based Assessments that lead to a more focused and informed job search. Individuals participate in a two-week paid assessment in a community employment site, based on the individuals' interests.  A job coach works with the individual on a variety of career interest assessments that inform future employment decisions. A team meeting at the end of the assessment period gives the individual an opportunity to consider next steps.

To discover the possibilities of We Go To Work, please contact Dianna Walters, Community Employment Services Manager, by This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. or at 740.652.7230.

Mission

Our mission is to bring about a vibrant community where people lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions.

Vision

People will have the freedom to build the life they need and achieve the things they want. Individuals and their circles of support will have control regarding the nature of the services and supports they receive, agencies and staff who provide the support and how funding available to them is used, as the board implements the principles of self-determination every day, with everyone. People will have access to a greater number and variety of high-quality services and supports. Individuals will have expanded opportunities to live in homes they choose and to be involved in their neighborhoods and communities. We will, by example, educate members of the community how to look past differences, gain understanding, and embrace acceptance of people with disabilities.

Individuals will be safe and healthy. People will live, learn, work and play in safe and healthy environments and will increase their knowledge and skill to maintain and improve their own health and safety. Individuals’ health and safety will be protected by systemic safeguards.

The Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities will build and enhance formal human resource systems to support a quality system rooted in self-determination. The Board will enhance hiring and contracting practices and human resource development that supports a highly skilled workforce. Staff and providers will have the skills and knowledge necessary to provide exemplary services and supports. The Board will maintain an organizational structure and culture that fosters team building, staff collegiality, and an understanding of the Board’s mission.

The Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities will maintain a secure and stable system to meet current and future needs of individuals and families. The Board will increase financial and technological resources to meet the service and support needs of eligible individuals, focusing on non-levy funding. The Board will expand its capacity to use data-based information as the foundation of decisions. The Board will expand community awareness of Fairfield DD.

Values

Demonstrate respect for people receiving support. All implementation strategies will show respect for the privacy, individuality, and self-determination of the people receiving support.

Emphasize relevant activities. Implementation strategies will be designed to provide information on topics that have meaning to the people who receive supports and be relevant to their daily lives.

Provide evidence of the effectiveness of intervention/support methods. Implementation strategies will be designed to produce qualitative and quantitative evidence that demonstrates the effectiveness of support models and approaches, funding methodologies, systems designs, quality assurance/improvement techniques, evaluation methods, and data management procedures.  The emphasis will be on the development of proven or evidence-based practices that result in measurable performance outcomes at both the individual and systems levels.

Reflect financial reality. All strategies will reflect the day-to-day financial realities of service provision, and demonstrate an understanding of cost and expenditure data that are related to the current and future affordability of long-term systems of support.  Budgeting will be viewed as a discipline to decide which arenas should be fully funded and which should not be funded at all.

Demonstrate practical use and functionality. All implementation strategies will focus on the development of practical solutions to day-to-day problems faced by individuals, family members, staff, and affiliated organizations.  Emphasis will be placed on developing tools to improve quality and capacity, reduce cost, document change, and replicate effective models of service and support provision.

Discover new approaches. Strategies will lead, when possible and appropriate, to the development of new service designs that demonstrate improvements in support outcomes and do not kill “creative magic.”  All policies and procedures will be reviewed to eliminate bureaucracy and hierarchy.

Objectives will be recorded in concrete. Plans can change throughout the year, but what we measure ourselves against will never change.  We will develop “to do” lists and “stop doing” lists.  We will be rigorous at the end of a review cycle, adhering exactly to what we said was going to happen.  We will not just focus on what we’ve accomplished for the review cycle, we will focus on what we’ve accomplished relative to what we said we were going to accomplish – no matter how tough the measure.

Commitments

We commit to use taxpayer dollars effectively and efficiently.

We commit to use technology to open doors.

We commit to build networks of relationships in community life.

We commit to help people discover their personal genius.

We commit to protect health, wellness and safety.

We commit to support people's contributions and accomplishments through valued social roles.

We commit to promote choice and self-direction.

We commit to strengthen the culture of rights, respect and dignity.

We commit to foster excellence, collaboration and innovation in services.

Comprehensive Long Range Plan and Quality Improvement Plan

FairfieldDD is in the first year of its 2012-2016 Comprehensive Long Range Plan, entitled Imagine the Possibilities 2016. This long-range plan establishes long-term goals and creates a vision for the future. For each year of the Comprehensive Long Range Plan, the Board adopts a Quality Improvement Plan to help guide us toward the goals.

To download a copy of Imagine the Possibilities 2016, please click below.

Imagine the Possibilities 2016

To download the 2012 Quality Improvement Plan, please click below.

2012 Quality Improvement Plan

If you have any questions about these plans or our strategic planning process, please contact Leah Holden, Planning Coordinator, by e-mail or by telephone at 740.652.7220.

Debra Buccilla, Board President

Debra Buccilla is the Executive Vice President and Chief Operations Officer of Alvis House, a private, non-profit human services agency. Alvis House was established in 1967 and operated programs in Columbus, Dayton, Lima, Chillicothe and Toledo. The agency serves nearly 400 residential clients at a time and annually serves in excess of 4,000 men, women, young adults and children.

Deb has more than 30 years experience working with individuals with developmental disabilities in both the private and public sector. As an advocate for individuals with disabilities, Deb worked on a local, state and national level to promote policy change. She has presented locally and nationally on all aspects of service delivery to individuals with developmental disabilities, including administrative and regulatory issues.

Deb holds a Master's Degree in Education from The Ohio State University and a Bachelor's Degree in Psychology from Ohio Dominican University.

Appointed to the Board: February, 2009
Current Term Expires: December 31, 2012
Appointed By: County Commissioners
Residence: Bloom Township

Mark Weedy, Board Vice President

Dr. Mark Weedy retired on January 1, 2010, from Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools where he had served as Superintendent since 2005. He completed a total of 32 years in education and has also been a teacher and building principal. Mark has consistently been an advocate for individuals with special needs throughout his career. He most recently was instrumental in starting Project SEARCH, a collaborative program for special needs high school students at Fairfield Medical Center. Mark served for a brief time on the Board of Directors for Fairfield Industries before being appointed by the Fairfield County Commissioners to fill an unexpired term on the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Mark holds two bachelor's degrees from Miami University, a Master's Degree from Ball State University, and a Doctorate in Education from Miami University.

Appointed to the Board: May 11, 2010
Current Term Expires: December 31, 2013
Appoint By: County Commissioners
Residence: Carroll

Sheila Meyer, Board Secretary

Sheila Meyer grew up in Lancaster. She is a wife and mother, and has a brother with a developmental disability who attends the Center for Disabilities. Sheila has been a proud advocate for individuals with special needs for many years and is always excited to utilize any professional and personal skills she has to participate in opportunities to give back to her community and the wonderful individuals the county boards serve.

Sheila is currently the Director of Finance and Administration for the Association of College and University Housing Officers International (ACUHOI) which is part of the Student Life at Ohio State University. Sheila has worked in Finance and Administration for over 30 years in various capacities with most experiences stemming from the non-profit and governmental sectors. As a part of management in most organizations she has been challenged to provide financial oversight, planning, aid in operational policies and procedures development, champion software conversions and change management stemming from software implementations.

Sheila recently served as Secretary on the Board of Directors for Fairfield Industries before being appointed by the Fairfield County Commissioners to fill and unexpired term on the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Sheila received a bachelor's degree in business administration accounting from Franklin University.

Appointed to the Board: December, 2011
Current Term Expires: December 31, 2014
Appoint By: County Commissioners
Residence: Balitmore

Kelly Brick

Kelly Brick was appointed to the Board in June 2012 to fill an unexpired term. Kelly is a wife and mom of five children. One of her children has spastic cerebral palsy, triplegia, and epilepsy. He is server by Fairfield DD.

Kelly and her husband have been license foster/adopt parent since 2004. At the time the family decided to become foster parents, Kelly's vocation change from a business professional to a full time mom. After more than 15 years in sales and marketing, Kelly has now become a strong advocate for person with disabilities and appreciates the opportunity to server on the board to offer any assistance she can to the many clients of Fairfield DD.

Appoint to the Board: June 2012
Current Term Expires: December 31, 2013
Appointed By: County Commissioners
Residence: Pickerington

Theresa Nixon

Theresa Nixon was appointed to the Board in January, 2010 to fill an unexpired term. Theresa is the Supervisor of Case Management with the Columbus City Schools. Theresa has had a passion for services for persons with developmental disabilities since her teen years, volunteering her time and efforts with various programs and services through high school. Upon entering Kent State University, she began her education career and has been in the field of special education since.

Theresa served from 2000 to 2006 on the Fairfield Industries board. She also volunteers at the Spring Field Days, Columbus City Schools, Spring Special Olympics meet and participates annually in the the Run for the Rose 5K (although, as she says, "I walk and talk more than run!").

Theresa holds a Master's Degree in Curriculum and Instruction from Ashland University and a Bachelor's Degree in Education from Kent State University.

Appointed to the Board: January, 2010
Current Term Expires: December 31, 2015
Appoint By: Probate Court
Residence: Lancaster

Christine Swindells

Christine Swindells is a Certified Public Accountant and President of Christine Swindells, CPA, LLC in Lancaster. She has worked in the accounting and finance capacity for over fifteen years, which includes ten years in public accounting from auditing to advisory capacity and five years in private industry from lower management to Chief Financial Officer. As a CPA professional in both the private and the public sector, she has partnered with senior management in setting policies and assisted with strategic short and long term planning, problem-solving, regarding accounting and information software related issues, and offering options with recommendations.

Prior to joining the Board, Christine ended a six-year term as a Board member of Fairfield Industries, and is excited at the possibility of utilizing her knowledge and skills in fiscal and financial matters for the benefit of Fairfield DD and the individuals we serve.

Appointed to the Board: January 2010
Current Term Expires: December 31, 2013
Appoint By: County Commissioners
Residence: Sugar Grove

Appointment of Board Members

State law identifies who may serve as members of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities.

Ohio Revised Code 5126.022 states that the Board shall consist of seven members, five appointed by the County Commissioners and two appointed by the County Probate Court Judge.

Each member must be a county resident. Of the five appointed by the County Commissioners, at least two shall be individuals who are immediate family members of individuals eligible for services provided by the county board and, whenever possible, one of those two members shall be an immediate family member of an individual eligible for adult services and the other shall be an immediate family member of an individual eligible for early intervention services or services for preschool or school-age children. Of the two members appointed by the probate judge, at least one shall be an immediate family member of an individual eligible for residential services or supported living.

In addition, the County Commissioners and the Probate Court Judge shall appoint, to the maximum extent possible, individuals who have professional training and experience in business management, finance, law, health care practice, personnel administration, or government service, and provide for the Board's membership to reflect, as nearly as possible, the composition of the county that the county board serves.

All Board members are appointed for a four-year term.  Board members may serve up to three consecutive terms.  Board members serve without compensation, but may be be reimbursed for necessary expenses incurred in the conduct of the Board's business.

Meet the Staff

Welcome to the "Meet the Staff section of our website. This section is organized by department, so to meet the staff of a particular department of Fairfield DD, simply click on one of the links below.

Administrative and Support Staff

Adult Service Options Department Staff:

Administrative Support
Community / Customized Employment
Opportunity Center
Art & Clay on Main
Blue Shoe Arts
Northwest Center

Educational Services Department:

Administrative Support
Early Intervention
Preschool/School-Age Services

Quality Department Staff

Services and Supports Department:

Administrative Support
Introduction and Eligibility
Behavior Support
Family Support Services
Individual Support Coordination

Administrative and Support Staff

Administrative Services of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities consists of the Superintendent's Office, Fiscal Services, Human Resources, Operations, Facilities, Information Technology, and Community Outreach. Learn more about our staff below!

John Pekar, Superintendent

John has been the Superintendent of Fairfield DD since 1999.  He began his career as a direct service worker at the first group home in Akron in 1973, and has served as the CEO of two non-profit organizations in the Akron/Canton area supporting people with developmental disabilities.  John also served as Deputy Director at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities from 1991 to 1996.  John feels his two most rewarding jobs are his current one as Superintendent of Fairfield DD and as CEO of Siffrin, Inc. in Canton from 1980 to 1991.  When he left Siffrin, he felt as if he walked away from the "garden of eden" of jobs, and considers himself extremely fortunate that he was allowed "back into the garden" at Fairfield DD.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Gaynor Pfeffer, Executive Assistant to the Superintendent

Gaynor is the Executive Assistant to the Superintendent and has worked in the field of developmental disabilities since 1987.  Gaynor has a Bachelors degree in Business Administration from Ohio Dominican University.  After serving 10 years at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and 10 years at the Franklin County Board of DD, Gaynor is very excited about finishing her career here at Fairfield DD.  And, of course, riding her horses whenever she gets the opportunity.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Cindy Hillberry, Director of Human Resources and Operations

Cindy started in the field in February of 1988 when she began work with Ohio Industries for the Handicapped, Inc.  She joined Fairfield DD in December of 1996 as the Community Employment Manager and moved into her current position of Director of Human Resources in March of 2001.  Cindy is a Lancaster native, graduated from Lancaster High School and holds Bachelor’s and Master’s degrees from Ohio University.  Cindy looks forward to coming to work to rest up from her “second job” as mom to two active boys, Joshua and Jon.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Rachel McCoy, Assistant to the Director of Human Resources

Rachel is the Administrative Assistant to the Director of Human Resources. She joins FCBDD with numerous years of of previous experience in administrative roles including office manager and clerical assistant. In knowing the importance of family values, Rachel chose to leave the employment workforce to start her family. While raising her two young sons, Dylan and Cooper, Rachel turned her passion for photography into her entrepreneurship using her skills obtained through the Ohio University College of Business Administration. Rachel looks forward to being part of a team that makes a difference in the lives of individuals.

Contact Information:

795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Tracey Lee, Training Coordinator

Tracey is an outgoing, energetic wife and mother. She holds a BSBA from Ashland University, and developed a passion for working with individuals and their families over 10 years ago when she began her career in the developmental disabilities field with Marion County Board of DD. She believes that, aside from being a wife and mother, this is the most rewarding career.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Beth Seifert, Cheif Fiscal Officer

Beth has been with Fairfield DD as CFO since January 1999. Prior to that, she spent 12 years working for OhioHealth in Columbus. Beth holds a Bachelor's Degree in Accounting from Franklin University, and obtained her certified public accountant license in 1992.

Beth has been involved with the programs offered by Fairfield DD since 1993, when her daughter was referred to the Early Intervention Program. Her daughter attended Forest Rose's pre-school and school age programs.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Jay Mattlin, Information Technology Manager

Jay holds a Bachelor of Science in Network and Communications Management from DeVry University in Columbus, Ohio. He is currently working on obtaining his Master's of Science in Information Technology Management. Jay comes to the Board of DD after four years as Bloom-Carroll Schools' Computer Technician, web master, drama director and swim coach.  Jay also works frequently with the Robert K Fox Family Y on their computer systems, as well as, lifeguarding and teaching the occasional fitness class.  In his free time, Jay volunteers many hours with the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society of Central Ohio to help further their mission of ending blood related cancers.  Jay is very excited to be working with the Board and says, the excitement comes from being part of such a well-respected organization!

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Michelle Wright, Accountant

Michelle is excited about joining the network of FCBDD.  She brings over 20 years of financial experience and has been previously employed as an Assistant Manager at a bank branch, as well as in the billing office for the Physicians of Fairfield Medical Center.  Michelle and her 3 children live in Perry County where they are very active with the local 4-H organization and has enjoyed her service with youth age children in many capacities.  Michelle is currently working to complete her bachelor’s degree in Applied Business Management with the Ohio University.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Trena VanAtta, Accounts Payable Clerk

Trena has been employed with Fairfield DD since March of 1990. When first hired as the Administrative Typist for the Board, Trena was responsible for clerical duties within the Behavior Support Department as well as processing agency purchase orders and provided support to the Administrative Secretary to the Superintendent. As Trena’s position evolved over the years she became the Accounts Payable Clerk within the Fiscal Department, being responsible for processing payment for all agency invoices as well as having responsibility for tracking supplies and equipment inventory for the County Auditor’s Office. Trena is married to her husband Tim and they have one son, Dalton.  They reside in Carroll.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

John Bosser, Community Outreach Coordinator

John Bosser has been Community Outreach Coordinator at Fairfield DD since 2004. A graduate of California University of Pennsylvania, he worked in the university’s Sports Information department before becoming a general assignment reporter and sportswriter at a mid-sized daily newspaper. Since moving to Ohio in 1986, he’s worked as an advertising copywriter, serving clients such as Wendy’s, OSU Hospitals and the James Cancer Hospital. He’s also worked in marketing and corporate communications for Bank One, Nationwide Insurance and Scott’s Miracle Grow. He’s married with three children, and is well on his way toward his life goal of becoming a curmudgeon.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

David Uhl, Director of Business Development

This is David's first position in the field of developmental disabilities. He comes to FairfieldDD with a business and education background, serving previously as the Executive Director of Destination Downtown Lancaster and as campus director of a local college. David has a Bachelor's Degree in Religion, a Masters Degree in Education, and a PhD in Management and Leadership. David hosts a radio show called Mind Your Own Business, teaches business courses at two local colleges, and pastors the Rushville Church of Christ in Christian Union. In his spare time, he loves hanging out with his wife and daughter, as well as reading, trying to golf and politics.

Kevin Rigsby, Facilities Manager

Kevin offered to work on a substitute basis for Fairfield DD in February of 2006 when we were short on maintenance staff.  He had worked in the maintenance field since 1989 when he began with Nationwide Insurance.  Kevin is the proud father of Maizie Bleu (yes, named after Kevin’s favorite team – that team up north).  Maizie was born in August of 2000 with Down Syndrome.  Kevin became acquainted with Fairfield DD through the birth to three program.  He became a “permanent fixture” as a Facilities Manager in April of 2007.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Brent Thorne, Facilities Technician

Brent started with FCBDD in 2008 as a Habilitation Aide at the Opportunity Center and is now working as Facilities Technician at the Administration Building.  Brent has been instrumental in working with people on exercise and healthy living and enjoys coaching basketball.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Administrative Support

The FCBDD Adult Services Administrative Support Staff are responsible for the overall management, planning and coordination of adult and transition services provided by the Fairfield County Board of DD. In addition, the Adult Services Administrative Support Staff are actively involved with the ongoing development of partnerships and collaborations with organizations, agencies and other adult service providers to assist individuals with accessing an array of options and choices in our community.

The Adult Services Administrative Support Staff provide assistance to each of the managers and coordinators assigned to the adult services program with the development, implementation and ongoing monitoring of annual and long-term quality improvement goals, objectives and action steps which will lead to the achievement of the missions set forth by the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities which is: "To bring about a vibrant community where people lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions."

Robert Gaston, Director of Adult Services Options

Bob joined Fairfield DD as Director of Adult Service Options in July 2006.  Bob began his career in residential services at Mellett Group Homes in Columbus, Ohio in 1979, serving as Recreation Worker, Group Home Manager, and eventually the Executive Director.  Bob joined the Pickaway County Board of Developmental Disabilities in 1986, serving as Workshop Director, County Board Business Manager and Adult Services Director.

Bob has a Bachelors degree in Psychology and a Masters degree in Public Administration from The Ohio State University.  And yes, he insists on "The Ohio State University," as he is a true dyed-in-the-wool Buckeye fan.

Bob also currently serves as Vice President of the Ohio Association of Adult Services.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
e-mail

Karla Giesler, Business Operations Manager

Karla serves in the Adult Service Options division of Fairfield DD.  In her role as Business Operations Manager, Karla primarily manages the Adult Services budget as well as the Fairfield Industries budget and financial reporting.

Karla has enjoyed working for Fairfield DD since 1983 and proud to be part of such a great organization.  Karla holds a Bachelors of Science in Business Administration from Bliss College.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Ron Swain, Senior Benefits Analyst

Ron Swain has provided Benefits Planning for over 8000 Ohio beneficiaries in his 18 year career in the benefits field. Swain has provided benefits analyses in 83 of Ohio’s 88 counties and was instrumental in educating legislators, helping obtain Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities. Prior to joining FCBDD, he directed Social Security Administration grants for a Columbus, Ohio based non-profit.

Swain joined FCBDD in January, 2011 as Senior Benefits Analyst, providing benefits consultations around the state. Swain is Past-President of the Ohio Rehabilitation Association and board member for the National Association of Disability Benefits Specialists. Swain is a recognized leader in the benefits planning field, presenting at local, state and national conferences.

Swain is a Social Security Administration certified Community Work Incentives Coordinator, working closely with SSA and JFS to provide practical benefits analyses and work incentives (helping people work and maintain needed benefits). Ron anticipates riding off into the sunset, toward Amanda, in a few years to become a gentleman farmer on the family farm; although his wife, Tessie, anticipates that he will quickly become disenchanted with that. In the meantime, Swain is very pleased to be working for FCBDD in his hometown.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Susan Barnett, Transition Coordinator

As Transition Coordinator, Susan has the privilege of getting to know the students and their families, school districts and teachers, and the uniqueness of working with almost every part of our agency to help plan for life after graduation.  Her experience as an Individual Support Coordinator with Fairfield DD, a Career Counselor with Eastland Fairfield Career & Technical Schools, a Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor with B.V.R., and as a Case Manager in the mental health field have prepared her to focus on each of the students and their families unique gifts.  Susan thanks you for this privilege, and asks you to please contact her with any questions or suggestions…they are always welcome!

Contact information:
4465 Coonpath Road
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
e-mail

Tammy Garner; Community Connections Coordinator

Tammy has been a long time employee of Fairfield DD, working as an aide, a Workshop Specialist, and currently as one of our Program Specialists, serving our Hab and Senior areas.  Tammy is an avid supporter and coach for Special Olympics, and recently started an equestrian program for people with disabilities.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.

Jeanie Kiger, Account Clerk

Jeanie has worked for Fairfield DD for the past 15 years.  Previously she was employed as a licensed insurance agent with an independent insurance agency for 23 years.  She is married and her children are her dogs; Sami and Jesse.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Tina Smith, Secretary

Tina has been the Secretary for the Adult Service Options Department since September 2001.  She is married with two grown children and two wonderful grandsons.

Contact Information:

Marilyn Lawson, File Clerk

Marilyn works for Fairfield Industries, Inc. at the Opportunity Center.  Previously, Marilyn worked for and retired from AEP with 22 years of service.

Marilyn began her career with Fairfield DD in March 2002 as a part-time secretary.  In 2005 she became Fairfield Industries' file clerk.  She still works for the Fairfield DD administrative office on an as-needed basis.

Marilyn is the mother of a daughter and a son, and has five grandchildren.  Her eldest grandson has the developmental disability of limb-girdle MD.  He attends Fairfield Union High School.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
e-mail

Linda Bell, Office Assistant

Linda has worked as a civilian for the Air Force in Newark, Ohio and Offutt, Nebraska as an assistant payroll supervisor, motor pool supervisor, and various other positions.  Her previous position before joining Fairfield DD was as manager of an antique store for 14 years.  She upgraded their accounting system from pen and paper to computer, and learned a lot about antiques and the history behind them.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Community / Customized Employment

The Fairfield County Board of DD supports each person’s desire to work, and believes that with adequate planning and supports each individual can be successful in employment.

Employment services are provided and/or funded by the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission.  These services include: transportation, community-based assessment, vocational evaluation, personal and work adjustment, job shadowing, job coaching, soft-skills training, tutoring, travel training,  job development, job placement, career exploration, benefits analysis, job club, safety-awareness, rehabilitation technology services and job retention and follow-along services.

Read more about Community Employment Services.

Doug Mitchell, Community Employment Services Manager

Contact Information:

4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Susan Welliver, Program Specialist

Susan Welliver works for Communtiy Employment Services (CES).  Susan worked for the Pickaway County Board of DD for 17 years, working with school age students and adults.  After accepting a position in adult services, she supervised a work training site based in the community.

In December 2008, Susan joined Fairfield DD and enjoys working with individuals who have a desire to become employed in the community.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Kathy Dennison, FCBDD Job Coach

Kathy was born and raised in Stark County and became involved in their county and Special Olympics programs from the time her youngest brother, Andy, was born with Down Syndrome.  Lancaster has been her home for the past thirty years.

Kathy served on the Fairfield Industries, Inc. Board for several years, and represented FI as a member of the original Self-Determination Planning Group of Fairfield DD.  She tendered her resignation as an FI Board member in 2002 to accept her current position as Job Coach with Fairfield DD.

Kathy is currently responsible for The Zone - the food and vending service in the student center at Ohio University-Lancaster, operated in partnership between Fairfield DD and OU-L.

Kathy was honored with the Professional of the Year Award in 2008 from the Ohio Association of Persons in Supported Employment.  She and her husband Carl have four sons and eleven grandchildren.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Andrea Headley, T.E.C. Job Coach

Andrea is an employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a job coach. Andrea began her work in the DD field in early education, specializing in young children with autism. Andrea is currently working in the LIFEWorks project.  In addition Andrea ,volunteers with the equestrian Special Olympics team and she attends Ohio University Lancaster.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Dan Kemp, T.E.C. Job Coach

Dan is an employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a job coach.  Dan has been working as a job coach for Fairfield DD since the summer of 2010.  Dan is currently serving as a job coach at the  Project SEARCH program  at  Fairfield Medical Center.   Dan has been married to his wife Nicole for 7 1/2 years and they have two daughters, Madison and Miley.  Dan also works as a provider and youth minister at his church.  Dan has worked at Camp Shining Sun/Rainbow.  Dan loves music, his family and enjoys working with individuals with special needs.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
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James Armstrong, T.E.C. Job Coach

James is an employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a job coach. James has worked as a job coach since October 2011. James is currently serving as a job coach at the Project SEARCH program at Fairfield Medical Center. James holds a Bachelor's of Arts degree in Communication and he is currently working on his Master's.

James has been married for twenty six years and has four kids. Two girls are in college and another daughter who does art at Art & Clay on Main, and a son who goes to Pickerington High School. James likes helping people lead fulfilling lives while making an impact on the lives of the community and individuals with disabilities. "By unifying employers and people with disabilities, we are building a stronger community that changes our world."

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Trudi Benson, T.E.C. Job Coach

Trudi is an  employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a job coach.  Trudi has previous experience working as a job coach/job developer with ETC.  Trudi likes to spend time with her grandchildren.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Brandy Hug, T.E.C. Job Coach

Brandy is an employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a Job Coach.  Brandy has been working as a job coach for Fairfield DD since May of 2010.  Brandy has previous experience as a home health aide.  Brandy is married and has one daughter.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Sheri Bales, T.E.C. Job Coach

Sheri is an  employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a job coach.  Sheri has been working as a job coach since the summer of 2010.  Sheri is in the process of completing ACRE training to obtain her certification for customized employment.  Sheri lives in the Canal Wincher area and has two children attending college.  Sheri's favorite thing to do is to spend time with family and friends.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Emily Johnson, T.E.C. Job Coach

Emily has worked for Fairfield DD since June 18, 2012 as a job coach. She is thoroughly enjoying my new job. Prior to working for the county, she had worked at various retail businesses since 2005. Emily graduated from Ohio University in 2009 with an Associate’s Degree in Business Management. Emily and her husband were married on August 13, 2011, and they recently celebrated their first anniversary. They are very happy with their new life and have recently added a Basset Hound puppy named Zippo to their family. In her free time Emily likes to draw, read, and listen to Metallica.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Runita Hayes, T.E.C. Job Coach

Runita resides in Columbus, Ohio where she has lived since the age of 4. She graduated from Reynoldsburg High School in 2001. She has two brothers and three sisters, who also reside in Columbus, Ohio. She has four children, three girls and one boy. Their ages are 10, 7, 6 and 3. Before she was employed with Fairfield DD, she worked as a coordinator at Marshall's for almost 3 years. This is where she became familiar with the Fairfield County Board of DD Community Employment Services department. She became a mentor which made her realize that this is something that she would like to do on a daily basis.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Deb Walkup, T.E.C. Job Coach

Deb began working at the Orient Developmental Center in the 1970's. When they closed she went to work as a Physical Therapy Aide for the Bureau of Workman's Compensation at the J.L. Camera Center. She moved to Fairfield County area in the late 1980's and started at Fairfield Industries in 1987 as a Workshop Specialist. She retired at the end of 2010 and now works part-time as a job coach at The Zone.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Sherry Oatney, T.E.C. Job Coach

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Missy McCrady, T.E.C. Job Coach

Missy is an employee of The Employment Connection (TEC) and is assigned to Fairfield DD as a Job Coach. Missy has been a job coach for over 4 years and is currently assigned to the Project SEARCH program at the Fairfield Medical Center. Missy is a student in the occupational therapy program at Zane State College.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Vicki West, Transportation Specialist

Vicki is a Transportation Specialist for Community Employment Services.  Vicki transports individuals to and from their jobs.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Rose McKinney; Transportation Specialist

Rose has been with Fairfield DD since 2002 and transports individuals to and from their community jobs. She is married and has one son, two grandsons and one granddaughter.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
740) 652-7230

Opportunity Center

The Fairfield County Board of DD provides and/or funds adult day supports for individuals based upon needs, desires and preferences.  Individuals may choose the services provided by the Fairfield County Board of DD at the Opportunity Center or at one of many provider agencies in Fairfield County.

Read more about Adult Day Supports.

Ray Schmidt, Program Services Manager

Ray has served Fairfield DD in several capacities over the years including Case Manager, Residential Director and Board Member.  Ray spent 21 years in manufacturing and computer development, and recently returned to the field of Developmental Disabilities.  His current responsibilities include the programs and operations of the Opportunity Center.  Ray's special areas of interest include Autism, behavior, and adaptive technology.

Ray and his wife Mary have four children, including a son who attends daily activities at the Opportunity Center.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
e-mail

Pam Hurles, Day Services Coordinator

Pam Hurles has been employed by Fairfield DD since October 2007.  Prior to coming to Fairfield County, Pam was employed as the Business and Operations Manager for Pickaway Diversified Industries, a division of Pickaway County DD for 4 years.  Pam holds a Bachelor's degree in Counseling from Ohio Christian University.   Pam is married and has one child; she and her family reside in Chillicothe, Ohio.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Joanne Grant, Program Specialist

Joanne serves in the Adult Services Program at the Opportunity Center.  She has an Associates Degree in Business.  Joanne has worked for Fairfield DD since August, 2002, and prior to that worked in the private sector since 1987.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
email

Kristin Lee, Program Specialist

Kristin has been employed with Fairfield DD since 1996. Kristin is currently a Program Specialist and has held several positions during her employment with Fairfield DD. Before joining Fairfield DD, Kristin was employed for seven years by REM-Ohio. In her free time Kristin is a Level One Provider and enjoys working with the families and individuals she serves. Kristin is a mother of three children, two daughters and one son.

Contact information:
4465 Coonpath Road
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230
e-mail

Amy Carter, Nurse

Amy works at the Opportunity Center as a Registered Nurse. She has been at the OC since August, 2008, and feels very fortunate to be given the chance to work with such great individuals.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Andrea Green, Nurse

Andrea is a registered nurse, and has worked for Fairfield DD at the Opportunity Center since 2009.  She says that she is so thankful to work with such wonderful people!

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Andrew Ray, Workshop Specialist

Andrew graduated from the University of California at Riverside with a major in Urban Planning. After almost four years in the planning field, he went back to school and completed his graduate program in education from Chapman University in Orange, California. He has taught first and fourth grades for Lancaster City Schools. He also was an educational assistant in a special education classroom for a little over a year. Andrew is extremely excited to be with Fairfield DD!

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Lisa Thompson, Workshop Specialist

Lisa has been employed by Fairfield DD since 1987.  She started as a substitute, and was hired 3 months later in the full time position of Habilitation Aide.  For 2 years she spent a great deal of time transferring from area to area in the program, and discovered that her talents were best suited to working in our Habilitation Area.  She was appointed to the position of Workshop Specialist in 1990 in Habilitation.

Working in Habilitation is still her passion, and she is particularly talented at developing independence using a variety of techniques.  Some of her clients learn to use switches to manipulate their environment, often for the first time.

Her personal motto is:  "Forget goals. It implies an end to accomplishment. Rather, blaze a trail and mark milestones! Growth never ends; everyone deserves limitless opportunity." Lisa is married with two children, ages 24 and 17.  She enjoys U.S. History, NFL, and college football.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Helen Dumm, Workshop Specialist

Helen is a longtime employee of Fairfield DD, starting work with us in August of 1987.  Helen currently serves as a Workshop Specialist in the Seniors program at the Opportunity Center.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Carol Grubb, Workshop Specialist

Carol started with the program in 1983, and for most of her years with us, Carol has specialized in serving our seniors.  A wonderful cook, Carol enjoys teaching cooking skills, and healthy eating choices.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Cindy Stewart, Workshop Specialist

Cindy lives in Berne Township, and has served with Fairfield DD for 26 years.  She currently serves as a Workshop Specialist in the Activities Room.  Cindy also serves as the coach for the Special Olympics Swim Team. She enjoys biking, tennis, swimming, jogging and life!

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Vickie Rzanski, Workshop Specialist

Vickie started working for Fairfield Industries in 1989 processing orders for Riviera Cabinets and in 1990 was the Quality Control Inspector for Fairfield Industries.  In 1993 she was hired as a Habilitation Aide working in the hab rooms.  In 1994 she was promoted to Workshop Specialist working in the hab rooms.  In 2000 she started working on the production floor in the Ralston room.  In 2008 she graduated from Hocking College with an Associates Degree in Nursing and Human Services.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road
Carroll, OH  43112
740.652-7230

Linda Dufner, Workshop Specialist

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Deborah Will, Workshop Specialist

Deb has worked for Fairfield DD for 17 years.  She has worked in Community Employment Services, and various areas of the workshop.  Her favorite part of working at the Opportunity Center is seeing those she serves have daily successes.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Matt McClellan, Workshop Specialist

Over the past several years, Matt has become our "toy" specialist, using adaptive switches and electronic devices to help people manipulate their environment - often for the first time.  Matt currently serves at the Opportunity Center in a Habilitation Room.

Matt and his wife Angel have three children; Rachel, Lance, and Sydney.  His interests include cycling, running, backpacking, golf (disk and regular), music, and hunting.  Matt has over 10 years of experience with Fairfield DD.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Shelly Holt, Workshop Specialist

Shelly volunteered in the Multi-Handicapped classrooms throughout junior and senior high school, and later, college.  Shelly attended Ohio University for three years to pursue a degree in Special Education.

Shelly began working for Fairfield DD as a substutute in January of 2002.  Two months later, she was hired as a full time Habilitation Aide and was promoted to Workshop Specialist in June of 2005.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Vicki Sargent, Workshop Specialist

Born and raised in the Lancaster area, Vicki graduated from Berne Union High School, class of 1970.  She attended CTI, in the Ohio Nursing Program. Vicki worked at Johnston Nursing Home, family-owned by her grandparents and parents.  She worked as a Nursing Assistant, Activities Director, and Social Worker before joining REM, Ohio in 1998 as a Program Coordinator.

Vicki joined Fairfield DD in 2002 as a Workshop Specialist in the Senior Area.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Heidi Knox, Workshop Specialist

Heidi began working with Fairfield DD in 2002 as a substitute.  In November of 2003, Heidi was selected as a Habilitation Aide, working first in Activities, and then in the Habilitation Rooms.  Heidi was recently promoted to the position of Workshop Specialist in Habilitation. She lives in Rushville with her husband, David, and two children, Dylan and Zoey.  The family enjoys baseball games, 4H activities, and swimming.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Jamie McCraken, Workshop Specialist

Jamie works on the production floor at the Opportunity Center.  She is also a Level 1 waiver provider.  Jamie started with Fairfield DD in 1998 as a substitute.  She was hired full time in 2003 and began her current position in 2008.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road
Carroll, OH  43112
740-652-7230

Tricia Minnard, Workshop Specialist

Tricia has worked for Fairfield DD since 2001.  She began working in the office as a file clerk and then quickly moved to the Community Employment Department, where she worked as a job coach until February of 2006.  Tricia then worked as a Workshop Specialist, first in Habilitation, and now on the production floor.  She attended Ohio University and she is married with three wonderful children ranging in age from 14 to 21 years.  Tricia gained some life long experience and knowlege of this field because of an older brother who was high functioning, but still cognitively challenged.  She learned many lessons watching the trials he went through growing up and watching her parents learn to cope. Tricia loves the experiences and challenges her position brings every day.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Wanda Heger, Workshop Specialist

Wanda has worked for Fairfield DD since October of 2003.  She started as a sub at the school, Fairfield Industries, and Community Employment Services.  Later, she was hired as an aide in the Activity Room, and then promoted to her current position as Workshop Specialist.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Mary Jo Praither, Workshop Specialist

Mary Jo and her husband Jim have a son and daughter, 2 granddaughters and 3 grandsons.  She enjoys outings, fishing and boating.  Mary Jo has worked for Fairfield DD for the past 16 years in a variety of production positions.  She recently accepted the position of Workshop Specialist, supervising one of our piece-rate lines.  She enjoys working with her group every day, and looks forward to the years to come.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Cheryl Delong, Habilitation Aide

Cheryl has worked for Fairfield DD for 10 years.  She has worked in both the habilitation rooms, and on the production floor.  Cheryl has 2 children, and a loving husband of 8 years.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Cindy Morris, Habilitation Aide

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Ryan Hunt, Habilitation Aide

Ryan is a lifetime resident of Lancaster, Ohio, and has worked for Fairfield DD at the Opportunity Center since 2005. Ryan enjoys disc golf, gardening, or anything else that takes him outside.

Ryan also enjoys his role as a Special Olympics Basketball Coach.  His "words to live by":  One day at a time, every day.

Contact Information
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Maryann Gordon, Habilitation Aide

Maryann has enjoyed working with the Seniors at the Opportunity Center since 2004.  Prior to working for Fairfield DD, she worked with children who have learning disabilities for Lancaster City Schools.  Along with her other activities, Maryann and her husband have also been business owners.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Jill Walston, Habilitiation Aide

Jill started working for Fairfield DD in 2003, and currently serves as an aide in the production area at the Opportunity Center.  Jill has a special fondness for photography, and enjoys sharing that hobby with people on her line, sometimes going off on photography sessions as an activity.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Kendra Flowers, Habilitation Aide

Kendra started as a substitute at the Opportunity Center in April of 2008.  She was selected to go full-time as a one-on-one aide in February of 2010, and became a Habiltation Aide in October 2010. Kendra has four children, 3 daughters, and one son.  Kendra enjoys spending her spare time with her family.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Todd Brooks, Habilitiation Aide

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Tiffany Juniper, Habilitation Aide

Tiffany started with our program in April of 2005, and currently serves in the Habilitation area at the Opportunity Center.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Amanda Snoke, Habilitation Aide

Amanda started working at the Opportunity right out of high school in June of 2009 as a substitute.  Amanda has also worked as an aide on the bus, and at the Northwest Center for a couple of months.  In October of 2010, Amanda was hired full time in her current position. Amanda has a passion for helping those in need, and has traveled to help people on several mission trips.  Her favorite so far was a mission to South America!

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

John Silfies, Habilitation Aide

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Jason Azbell, One-on-One Aide

Jason currently serves Fairfield DD as a One-on-One Aide, and enjoys using a variety of techniques with his client.  Jason has worked for Fairfield DD since April of 2007.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Matt Wagner, One-on-One Aide

As the nephew of an adult with special needs, Matt has seen first hand the benefits of community employment.  In 2004 he received his STNA license, and he worked at a local nursing home for about three years with patients with Alzheimers disease and dementia.  He entered the field of developmental disabilities as a direct care provider, and eventually moved to a position as the Fairfield County Supervisor for ResCare.  He began as a Job Coach with Fairfield DD in August 2009 and joined the Opportunity Center team in 2011.

Contact Information:
4465 Coonpath Road, NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230

Michele Moose, Director

Michelle started working the DD field in 1986 as a direct care staff member at Heartland Fairfield Nursing Home outside Pleasantville. She received her degree in Mental Health from Muskingum Area Technical College, now known as Zane State College, in Zanesville in 1988. After a taking a few years off to raise her family, she returned to the DD field in 2010 at the Northwest Center as a driver and direct card staff member.

Michelle was promoted to Director in June of 2011.

Michelle lives in Lancaster where she was born and raised, with my two daughters Cassie and Rachelle.

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Trudy McCafferty, Personal Support Specialist

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Tessa Raybern, Personal Support Specialist

Tessa lives in Lancaster, Ohio. She became involved in the DD field back in 2009 when she worked a summer camp for the Northwest Center when she was on summer break from nursing school. She had a change of heart in her career choice after just one short summer of experience in the DD field. She came back to work at the Northwest Center in the Summer of 2011. She enjoys being around her individuals and is able to take something away with her each day when she goes home at night. She plans to attend Columbus State in the winter of 2013 to pursue her degree in mental health. In her personal time, she enjoys playing tennis and spending time with her family and friends.

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Kayli Grant, Personal Support Specialist

Kayli is 21 years old. She has a two year old daughter and lives in Lancaster, Ohio. She was in the nursing program at Hocking College and after her second quarter of clinicals, she decided that nursing was not for her. Soon after leaving the nursing program, a former friend informed her about the Northwest Center. In September of 2011, she began working at the Northwest Center and has been there for a little over a year now.

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Ashley Wheeler, Personal Support Specialist

Ashley has been in the DD field for a little over a year. She has been interested in working with people all of her life. She has worked at daycares in the past and she has helped at different events with retirement homes. Given her interest in the field, she applied for a job that worked with individuals and has been in the DD field since.

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Andrew Taylor, Personal Support Specialist

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Don Miller, Personal Support Specialist / Driver

Don is retired from the Ohio State Highway Patrol and worked for the Department of Public Services for 25 years.

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Bruce Kerns, Driver

Born in Columbus, Ohio, Bruce graduated from The Ohio State University with a commission in the United States Army. After 26 years in the army, he returned to Columbus, taught Army ROTC at Capital University for four years and then drove the shuttle for FCDD supporting the Pickerington Area. When Pickerington dropped the transportation contract with the county, PCS took the contract and Bruce began driving for them. Bruce is married and has two sons and four grandchildren, two boys and two girls. Bruce is a woodturner and has a small craft business, kernsturns.com.

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Michael Kroll, Driver

Contact information:
820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43146
(614) 856-1630

Art & Clay on Main

Art and Clay on Main, an affiliate of the Fairfield County Board of DD, is located in the heart of downtown Lancaster.   Art & Clay on Main is a community art studio & gallery.  Art & Clay’s retail space features stained glass, pottery, drawings, photographs, jewelry, dried flower arrangements and other beautiful works of arts by artists from all over the Central Ohio arts community which includes Blue Shoe Arts.

Read more about Art & Clay on Main.

Temple Gagni-Montanez, General Manager

Temple Custer Montanez comes to Art and Clay with an enthusiasm for the arts, the Fairfield County community and the Board of Developmental Disabilities. A former substitute teacher at Forest Rose School, she is a graduate of DePauw University. Her professional experience began in Lancaster as a journalist for the Lancaster Eagle-Gazette. She has served as a marketing/public relations director for BalletMet Columbus and Columbus Recreation & Parks where she worked closely with the central Ohio arts community. A former member of Columbus Arts Marketing Council and past editor of Columbus Arts magazine, she has experience in promoting both the arts and non-profit organizations. In addition, Temple brings an acute understanding of the retail industry with her general retail management experience. She opened and managed the William Sonoma store at Easton Town center for many years and also held a management position at Saks Fifth Avenue.

Temple is an avid creator and designer of jewelry, a tennis instructor, a mother of five adopted children and a newly married wife and step mother to two children. She is extremely excited to have returned to Lancaster and for the many creative and colorful opportunities that await her at Art & Clay.

Contact Information:
Art & Clay on Main
150 East Main Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 653-1755
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Teresa Whitlatch, Assistant Manager

A long time resident of Perry County, Teresa resides in her country home with her husband, four parrots, one dog and numerous fish (she previously owned a pet shop and had the unfortunate tendency to bring her work home with her).

Upon graduating from Berne Union High School, she attended Ohio University and studied art. After working a variety of jobs, she returned to school and received her degree in Business Administration.  She has spent the past 13 years in sales and management.

Art has always been her main source of relaxation and enjoyment. She enjoys painting, drawing, woodworking, and was fortunate enough to study portrait painting under the late Marvin Trigulta, a well-known local artist.

Teresa looks forward to combining her love of art and business experience to make Art & Clay on Main a place where others can enjoy creating their own art.

Contact Information:
Art & Clay on Main
150 East Main Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 653-1755

Tammy Rutter, Program Assistant

Tammy began working for Fairfield DD in 2010 as one of the new staff at its newest venture, Art & Clay on Main. A resident of Lithopolis, Ohio, Tammy has had the pleasure of being a nurse for 30 years.  Tammy is married with a 26 year old son, and has a longtime interest in antiques, which is reflected in her jewelry creations.

In a crazy world, Tammy finds peace and serenity in making her jewelry.

Contact Information:
Art & Clay on Main
150 East Main Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 653-1755

Jessie Bach, Art Assistant

Jessie became a Program Assistant at Art & Clay on Main in the summer of 2010 after a successful internship through Fairfield DD's LIFEWorks program. Jessie lives with her family in Lancaster, Ohio and has several pets: a dog, a cat and a lizard named Fluffy!  In 2006, Jessie attended “Community Connections,” a once-a-month art experience offered to children and youth through Blue Shoe Arts.  This was a program for individuals with and without disabilities working together to experience the “Blue Shoe Style” of art.  As soon as Jessie graduated from high school, she was selected to be a Blue Shoe artist.

A true untrained artist in many different mediums, Jessie has created wall murals in her basement studio at home, a variety of found object sculptures including kitchen appliances, and large paintings. She has worked in other mediums through high school art classes including chalk, pencil drawing, pastels and clay.

Because of her mural painting and obvious creativity, Jessie was selected to help paint a commemorative mural celebrating the 20th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act.  She worked with 12 other artists from Ohio in creating the mural, which will travel across Ohio in 2010 and 2011 to help raise awareness of the positive changes that have been made for individuals with disabilities.

Contact Information:

John Keeley, Environmental Technician

John gets along well with EVERYONE! John is kind to everyone, and that makes him a joy to be around. John likes basketball and is the manager for the Chiefs.  He loves the Ohio State Buckeyes and watches their games on television.

John has lived his whole life in Lancaster and likes how everything he needs is close by, including his sister Marcia.  John's smile makes everyone else smile around him.

Contact Information:
Art & Clay on Main
150 East Main Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 653-1755

Blue Shoe Arts

Art and Clay on Main is the home of the nationally recognized Blue Shoe Arts studio.   Blue Shoe Arts provides an opportunity for individuals served by the Fairfield County Board of DD who have expressed an interest and passion in the arts with the opportunity to express themselves through art and to develop artistic skills and talents that will enable them to create works of art that are marketable and will generate income for the artists.

Pamela Whiteley, BSA Studio Coordinator

Administrative Support

Administrative Support at Forest Rose School is responsible for many things to ensure the school runs as efficiently as possible. Administrative Support assists teachers in scheduling and getting to their continuing education classes to maintain their certifications as well as ordering items for the classrooms to ensure the instructors have the best available supplies and resources in their classrooms. Along those lines, Administrative Support maintains proper staffing levels by finding substitutes when staff is out sick or at a professional engagement. The front office also handles incoming visitors, scheduling IEP meetings, maintaining communication between parents, staff and school districts, maintains student records and schedules community outings. Administrative Support also completes the school's budget each year.

Jodi Blais, Director of Educational Services

Jodi has been the Director of Educational Services for Fairfield DD since August 2006.  She is also an adjunct professor at Ohio University-Lancaster Campus, where she has taught a class on inclusion for the past six years.  Prior to joining Fairfield DD she spent 10 years as Preschool Director and Speech Pathology Supervisor for the Fairfield County Educational Service Center.  In the early years of her career, Jodi worked as a speech-language pathologist in the public schools and Fairfield Medical Center and also as an Early Childhood Special Needs teacher.   Jodi received a B.S. in Education from Miami University (Oxford, OH) in 1979 and her Masters in Early Childhood Special Education from the University of Miami (Coral Gables, FL) in 1990.   Currently serving on the board of the Fairfield County Society for Children and Adults with Disabilities, she has also been the Executive Director of the Sertoma Summer Speech Program.  She has two children, a son in high school and a daughter at Miami University.   Jodi is passionate about “getting the conditions right” so that all children can learn.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Lisa Dennis, Administrative Assistant

Lisa is currently the Administrative Assistant for Forest Rose School but was also a One-on-One Aide and a Substitute teacher before coming into her new full-time position. Lisa has a special connection with Forest Rose as it is where her son attended preschool.  Lisa is the mother of 4 children and owned her own business prior to coming to Forest Rose. She has interacted with children with disabilities for many years and is looking forward to a long career at Forest Rose School.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Early Intervention

The Early Intervention Program provides home-based services to families of children birth through two with a developmental delay or diagnosed medical condition. Eligibility for services is established through an evaluation from the Help Me Grow Program. For more information about making a referral on a child contact Fairfield County Help Me Grow at (740) 681-4881.

Rebecca Nixon, Early Intervention Supervisor

Rebecca is the Early Intervention Program (Birth-3) Supervisor.  She has been employed with Fairfield DD since September of 2000 when she was hired as an Early Intervention Specialist.  Prior to this time, she was the Service Coordinator for the Early Intervention Program in Hocking County for 10 years.  Her degree in Early Childhood Education is from the University of Cincinnati.  She completed additional coursework from Muskingum College and Ohio University for her current Early Intervention certifications from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.  Throughout all of her work experience, Rebecca has seen herself as an advocate for young children and families.  After living in Hocking County for many years, she has moved back to her hometown of Lancaster.  Her daughter, Sara, attends Ohio State University.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Kristin Gentile, Early Intervention Specialist

Kristin (Conrad) Gentile is a native to Lancaster and a graduate of Fisher Catholic High School. Her interest in serving people with disabilities was ignited during her high school volunteer experience at Camp Recreation Unlimited. She obtained her Bachelor's Degree in Child Development and Family Relations from East Carolina University prior to accepting an Early Intervention Specialist position with the Hocking County Board of DD in 1996. Her three years as an E.I. Specialist deepened her desire to learn more about working with people with disabilities; which consequently led to the decision to pursue her Master's Degree in Special Education from Ohio University. Following the completion of this degree in 2001, she was blessed to be a stay-at-home mother for nine years to her two children, Isabelle and Jack. Kristin reentered her career field in the summer of 2012 when she accepted the E.I. Specialist position for the FCBDD. For her, it is an honor to serve children and families as an E.I. Specialist and she believes that all people should be treated with dignity and respect.

In her time outside of work, Kristin loves to spend time camping, hiking, reading, and bike riding with her two children. She is also passionate about spending time with extended family, running, cooking, and attending Mass at her parish, St. Bernadette Church. Her life motto is, "If you are who you should be, you will set the whole world ablaze!"

Carol Sayre, Early Intervention Specialist

Carol is an Early Intervention Specialist with the Early Intervention (Birth-3) Program at Forest Rose School. She has been employed since September of 2004.  She has had both the privilege and pleasure of working with children in the public schools, preschools and Fairfield County Head Start throughout her years of employment.   She grew up in Muskingum County, but has been a long time resident of Fairfield County, residing here with her husband and three grown children.  She is a graduate of West Virginia State College, with continuing coursework at Ohio University related to Early Childhood Education.  She has an Early Intervention Certificate through the Ohio Department of Disabilities, certification in Responsive Teaching through Case Western Reserve University, and a certificate of completion from the University of Connecticut AJ Pappanikou Center for Disabilities Early Intervention Specialist Program.   She enjoys being outdoors, hiking, gardening, reading, sports and soaking up the sunshine.  She is a member of Christ United Methodist Church, Christ UM Hand Bell Choir, Canal Strings Dulcimer Group and with the assistance of her canine companion, a member of Therapy Dogs International.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Melissa Sherrer, Early Intervention Specialist

Melissa is an Early Intervention Specialist (EIS) with the Early Intervention (Birth-3) Program. She has been employed with Fairfield DD since August 2000. Melissa grew up in Lancaster and graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor’s degree in Elementary Education. Beyond holding current certification in early intervention through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities, Melissa has completed coursework from the University of Connecticut in early intervention, and recently become a certified Responsive Teaching Provider. Prior to employment with Fairfield DD, Melissa worked at the Lancaster Health Department, under a grant program for early intervention, and was an administrator of a preschool in Dublin, Ohio. Melissa enjoys reading and music, and sings in the praise team at her church. She resides in Millersport with her husband and two school-age sons.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Michelle Hutchison, Occupational Therapist

Michelle is a 2000 graduate of Shawnee State University in Portsmouth, Ohio. She began her career with Developmental Disabilities in Marietta, Ohio working at Ewing School with Early Intervention and Preschool. She returned to the Lancaster area in 2006 and began working at FCBDD in 2008. She currently resides in Baltimore, Ohio with her husband Rick and their two beautiful girls.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Judy Smalley, Physical Therapist

I graduated from The Ohio State University in 1975 and have been previously employed at Dodd Hall and Easter Seals. My interest in working with children has perpetually motivated me to study extensively in the areas relating to neurodevelopment for infants and children. I have two children and three grandchildren and enjoy gardening, cooking, hiking and laughing with my family.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Karen Wideman, Speech Therapist

Karen has been working in Early Intervention with the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities since 2001. She attended Ohio University for her undergraduate and graduate degrees. Over the course of her professional experience, working with families who have children under three has become her passion. It is exciting and rewarding to see the smiles on caregivers' faces when they are able to help their little ones achieve new skills.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Pre-School / School Age Program

Pre-School Program

Forest Rose School’s Pre-School program provides free and appropriate educational opportunities and services to preschool children with special needs. Pre-school students who are typically developing are also enrolled in the program as social and communication models and to encourage inclusion and understanding of people with disabilities. The pre-school program is in session Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. – 3 p.m.

School Age Program

Forest Rose School provides a free and appropriate educational program for students from 6-22 years of age with Multiple Disabilities or Autism. It is a fully chartered public school. We are proud of the positive relationships we have with the local school districts in Fairfield County.

Learn more about the Pre-School and School Programs and the intake and eligibility process at the following links:
Pre-School Program
School Age Program

Bryston Lee; Educational Program Specialist

Bryston became the Curriculum Coordinator at Forest Rose School in 2010. Prior to that, she served as the Senior Classroom Instructor. She has a Bachelors Degree from Ohio State University in Communication and Behavior Disorders. She is currently working on her Masters Degree in Special Education. She has been an employee of Fairfield DD since 2006, beginning as an Individual Support Coordinator (ISC).  She began working at Forest Rose School in 2008.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Lori Mills; Ancillary Services Supervisor / Occupational Therapist

Lori has been an Occupational Therapist since 2000.  She has been employed by Fairfield DD since 2001 and currently provides occupational therapy to students ages 3-21 at Forest Rose School.  Prior to working at Forest Rose, she worked as an Occupational Therapist at Appalachian Behavioral Healthcare, serving individuals with mental illness.  Lori attended The Ohio State University and received a Bachelor of Science in Occupational Therapy in 1999 and a Master of Science degree in 2006.  She is a member of the American Occupational Therapy Association and the Ohio Occupational Therapy Association.  She is a life-long resident of Fairfield County, lives outside of Pleasantville and attends Grace Lutheren Church where she is a Sunday School teacher.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Pam Troup; Ancillary Aide

Pam is currently the Ancillary Aide for Forest Rose School. She has a Bachelors Degree in Engineering from the University of Connecticut. Pam and her husband Robert are proud parents of 3 wonderful sons. Pam grew up with a sister who is disabled and has interacted with children with disabilities her entire life and was involved with Special Olympics for many years.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
email

Kathi Boyer; Instructor

Kathi the Intermediate Instructor (grades 3-6) at Forest Rose School. Kathi has worked at Forest Rose School since 1989. She graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor’s Degree is Elementary Education and a Master’s Degree in Special Education. She is a native of Lancaster and is the mother of 3 children, 1 daughter and 2 sons. Kathi became a teacher with the hopes of making a difference in the lives of students, but found that they are the ones who have made a difference in her life.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Wendy Foucart; Instructor

Wendy is the Junior Classroom Instructor. She is a licensed Intervention Specialist and has worked for Fairfield DD for a little over 9 years.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Kris Ingram; Instructor

Kris became involved with persons with disabilities when she began to volunteer at Camp Shining Sun in the 8th grade.  Kris attended The Ohio State University and graduated with teaching degrees in Education of the Multi-handicapped, General Home Economics, and Vocational Home Economics.  During her college education, Kris was able to complete her Early Experience and Student Teaching at Forest Rose School.  Kris' first teaching experience was spent at the Columbus Developmental Center for 2 years.  In 1982, she was hired to teach at Forest Rose School.

During her tenure at Forest Rose School Kris, has taught in the Primary, Intermediate and Senior classrooms. Kris is married to Robb Ingram and they have 2 sons, Brandon and Dirk. She is very proud of her boys and they are both doing very well. Currently Brandon is married, expecting his 2nd child and serves in the United States Army, and Dirk earned his Bachelor's degree in Business at Franklin University and is employed at Forward Air.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Becky Sain; Instructor

Becky is a Preschool Classroom Instructor at Forest Rose School. She received her Bachelor’s Degree in Early Childhood Special Education from Ohio University. She began working at Forest Rose School in August 2002. Becky has always wanted to teach special needs children because she has a disability. She has been married to her husband Dan for 12 years and they have 2 children, Dylan who is 10 and Audrey who is 8. They have a dog and a cat and Becky is an animal lover. She also enjoys scrap-booking and listening to 80’s music.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Staryl Wharton; Instructor

Star is a Preschool Instructor at Forest Rose School. She teaches a visual learning class and uses a modified Stack Program in the classroom. Star has been teaching for 27 years and has been with preschool for 9 years.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Mandy Wilkins; Instructor

Mandy is a Preschool Instructor at Forest Rose School. While attending high school Mandy volunteered at Forest Rose as part of her high school curriculum. She then went on to attend Ohio University, majoring in Special Education with a minor in Physical Education and accreditation in Early Childhood Education. Mandy has been an employee of Fairfield DD since 2001 and was hired after college graduation. In 2008 Mandy was awarded the Mary M. Good Humanitarian Award. Mandy also coaches Special Olympics for the Franklin County Flyers and is an OHSAA volleyball official.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Dave Macioci; APE Instructor

Dave has been the Adaptive Physical Education Instructor at Forest Rose School since 2007. He held this same position many years ago at Forest Rose. He is also a lifeguard with shallow water training/certification. He enjoys working and volunteering with special needs children and adults. He participates in many recreational activities. He is married and has a son.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Emily Pontious; Resource Room Instructor

Emily graduated from Circleville High School in 2006. in 2011, she graduated from Ohio University with a degree in Special Education. Emily started working at Forest Rose School in October of 2011 as an aide in the Preschool then in January 2012, she accepted a job as the Resource Room Instructor and is loving it! Emily recently moved to Lancaster and is coaching girls backetball at Thomas Ewing Junior High. Emily enjoys making a different in people's lives and spending time with her friends and family.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

John Wagner; Physical Therapist

John is the Physical Therapist at Forest Rose School, serving the preschool and school-age students. He held this position from 1985 to 1989 then went off to live in that “state up north.” He returned to Ohio in 2002 and worked as an independent contractor juggling between home health with Interim Healthcare, work with the Perry County and Pickaway County Boards of DD, and returning to Forest Rose School 3 days a week.  The work has increased gradually and he is now working 5 days a week at Forest Rose School.

John originally received his physical therapy training 32 years ago at Northwestern University Medical School in Chicago. His career began immediately following at LaRabida Children’s Hospital.  Then in the early 80’s, he worked as the director of the physical medicine department at the Lancaster-Fairfield Community Hospital (now Fairfield Medical Center), and also worked in two counties in Michigan covering all their school programs before returning back to the Buckeye State.  Upon returning to our beautiful state, he worked as a pediatric physical therapist for 26 years.  His current position with Forest Rose School allows him to work in one location providing a more comprehensive, consistent physical therapy program with the variety of state-of-the-art equipment that is available here.

John is originally from Michigan, but he is married to Karen Morse Wagner, a local Buckeye fan, graduate of Bloom-Carroll High School and a substitute teacher at Forest Rose School.  They presently live in Carroll, have raised 5 children together, and enjoy being grandparents of a beautiful granddaughter, Penny, and a grandson, Maddox, who live here in Lancaster.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Rachel Whitcraft; Speech and Language Pathologist

Rachel is the School Age Speech Language Pathologist at Forest Rose School. She has previously served children enrolled in Fairfield County's Early Intervention program as well as pre-school aged students in the Northern Local School District. Rachel received a Bachelor's Degree in Speech and Hearing Sciences from The Ohio State University in 2001, a Master's in Education from The Ohio State University-Newark in 2004, and a Master's in Speech Language Pathology from the University of Cincinnati in 2011. She holds her Certificate of Clinical Competence through the American Speech-Language Hearing Association and is a member of the Ohio Speech-Language Heading Association. She is a life-long resident of Fairfield County and currently resides in Lancaster with her husband and their three children.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
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Megan Worthington; Speech and Language Pathologist

Megan graduated from the University of Kentucky in 1997 with a Bachelor's Degree in Communication Disorders. In 1999, she graduated from The Ohio State University with a Master's Degree in speech-language pathology. The first 10 years of her career, she gained experience in both educational and medical facilities in and around Fairfield County working with clients of all ages. She began working for the Fairfield County Board of DD Birth to Three program in 2009. In 2010, she transitioned into the Forest Rose Preschool program and is currently serving the preschool program. Megan also provides speech therapy consultation to the Opportunity Center several times per month. The experience at Forest Rose has fostered a passion for technology and augmentative and alternative communication devices. Megan lives outside of Lancaster with her husband and their three children.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
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Michelle Stevens; Nurse

Michele is a Registered Nurse (RN) at Forest Rose School. She graduated with her BSN from the University of Akron in 1974. Her first position as a nurse was in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit at Akron Children’s Hospital. She also taught Pediatric Nursing for 5 years at St. Thomas Hospital in Akron. She has taught Prepared Childbirth classes for Akron City Hospital. Throughout her career she has provided private duty for severely disabled children, provided camp nursing, performed well-baby check-ups, and has conducted various health clinics. Michele was a substitute nurse before coming on board in 2005 at Forest Rose School. Michele is married and has 3 grown children. She is also the Director of Puppet Ministry at her church.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
e-mail

Paula Debolt; Nurse

Paula Debolt began her nursing career after graduating from Hocking College and immediately began working as a Registered Nurse at a local hospital. After hearing a close friend talk about the many amazing things FCBDD does for Fairfield County communities, and in particular, Forest Rose School, she knew she wanted to get on board. Now, she is proud to say that she is not only a wife, mother of 3 adult daughters, active in her beloved church and in her community, but also exactly where she wants to be professionally, working at Forest Rose School.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Polly White; Nurse

In 2010, Polly graduated from Hocking College with a Licensed Practical Nursing Degree. While working as a nurse in home healthcare, she was given the opportunity to work with a special needs client.  This experience lead to her passion of special needs clients.  In addition to working at Forest Rose, she continues to practice as a home healthcare nurse. In her free time, she enjoys photography, cycling and spending good, quality time with her children.  She is very exited to be a part of making a difference to individuals in need.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Valerie Starner; Hygiene Aide

Valerie Starner became the Hygiene Aide at Forest Rose School during the 2010-2011 school year. She holds an STNA certification and has experience working with Hoyer lifts. She assists staff in making sure student’s daily hygiene and positioning needs are met. She is quick to lend a hand during busy times like lunch assisting staff and students with feedings and clean-up.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Lisa Aranda; One-on-One Aide

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Tim Connell; One-on-One Aide

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Shauna Gilroy; One-on-One Aide

This is Shauna's first year working as a One-on-One Aide with Forest Rose School, but has been working with special needs children as a Home Health Nurse for the past 8 years.  Shauna is also currently in school working towards her RN License.  In her free time, she enjoys spending time with her family, especially her 2 nephews and her niece, who spend every weekend with her.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Laura Grashel; One-on-One Aide

Laura has been married for 24 years to her high school sweetheart and they have 2 beautiful daughters ages 16 and 13.  In addition to being a loving wife and mother, she is a One-on-One Aide for Forest Rose School and has worked with special needs children for over 8 years.  If that isn't enough to keep her busy, she is currently working toward a dual bachelors degree in Elementary and Special Education.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Scott Heston; One-on-One Aide

Scott became a Substitute Aide in 2011 and became full-time in the fall of 2012. Scott is a long time resident of Sugar Grove, where he has an adult son and lives with his wife of 32 years who also works for The County Board as an ISC. Scott is an avid fisherman, and has written two books and is in the process of writing his third Historical Buying Guide for Ohio made fishing lures.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Stormy Hettinger; One-on-One Aide

Stormy is in her first year at Forest Rose School as a One-on-One Aide.  She is a wife and mother to wonderful twin daughters.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Christy Hutchison; One-on-One Aide

Christie is a resident of Amanda and an Amanda-Clearcreek Graduate. She graduated from the Fairfield Career Center Adult Program for Medical Assisting. Christie has done home health care and enjoys helping others.

Christie began working as a sub in March of 2012 and immediately wanted to be full time. "I love this job! It is unlike any other job I've had - I enjoy and look forward to coming to work everyday - The kids at Forest Rose are a true blessing to me. I know this is where God wants me to be!"

Christie enjoys spending time with her family. She is married and has children. She enjoys watching them play sports and in the band. Christie is currently attending Ohio Christian University for Children's Ministry.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Kathie Meadows; One-on-One Aide

Kathie has worked at Forest Rose School since 2005.  She is currently a One-on-One Aide in the intermediate classroom.  She also serves the FCBDD as an Independent Provider.  Besides her two very important roles within our amazing organization, Her most rewarding role is at home where she a mother of 2 grown children, daughter; Hollie Swartz (Keith), and son; Phillip (Megan), and grandmother to Liam.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Jamie Queen; One-on-One Aide

Jamie resides in Sugar Grove with her two childern.  She started in this field when she was in the 7th grade as a volunteer at Camp Shining Sun/Rainbow.  Her favorite thing to do outside of her rewarding career, is spending time with family.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Lynnette VanMeter; One-on-One Aide

Lynnette has been an educational aide for the past 6 years, but recently moved into the Lancaster area 3 years ago after getting remarried.  Lynnette has 3 grown children, 2 girls and 1 boy, and is also blessed with 2 other step sons and 1 granddaughter.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Chad McKnight; One-on-One Aide

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Heather Burke; Instructor Assistant

Heather graduated from Amanda Clearcreek High School in 1998. She is the mother of two, Syann and Dylan. We now live in Sugar Grove. Our hobbies include horseback riding, camping, fishing and boating. I worked as a spot welder in Amanda from 1997 until 2009. Then in December of 2009, I was hired as a One-on-One Aide here at Forest Rose School. In 2012, I took on the position of Instructor's Assistant in the Primary Classroom.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Tammy DeVault; Instructor Assistant

Tammy is a Preschool Instructor Assistant at Forest Rose School. She has been a classroom assistant at Forest Rose for 18 years. Tammy has been married to her husband Bryan for 33 years and they have 2 children and 3 granddaughters. Tammy and her husband love going for motorcycle rides across the U.S. Tammy is also starting to learn how to line dance.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Paula Gay; Instructor Assistant

Paula, originally from Michigan, moved to Ohio in 1989. She worked for Nationwide Insurance in Columbus until the birth of her daughter, Maizie, in 2000. Maizie was born with Down Syndrome and Paula discovered a new passion. Paula began a new career at Forest Rose School in 2004 and is currently working as a Primary Classroom Instructor Assistant.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Cathy Goodman; Instructor Assistant

Cathy Goodman is a Preschool Instructor Assistant at Forest Rose School, joining the program in 2008.  She has previous experience working in preschool classrooms, but has also worked as a one-on-one assistant at the grade school level.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Amy LaSalle; Instructor Assistant

Amy graduated from the College of Mt. St. Joseph in Cincinnati, Ohio in 1992 with a BA in Business Administration. After graduation, she worked for The United Way of Greater Cincinnati as a fundraiser, then at the Greater Cincinnati FDN as a Program Officer.

When her two children came along (Nick who is 11 and Izzy who is 9), she became a stay at home mom for nine years. Once both kids were in school, she became a sub for Forest Rose School which led to her current position as a Teaching Assistant.

She loves working with the amazing kids and dedicated staff at Forest rose, and is currently working on her Master's Degree in Special Education at Ashland University.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Bonnie Leonhardt; Instructor Assistant

Bonnie is currently a Senior Classroom Instructor Assistant at Forest Rose School. She started as a volunteer for Forest Rose and after working with the students she knew she wanted to be part of the staff helping students learn and grow. Bonnie has been employed by Fairfield DD since 2000. She has assisted in preschool and the intermediate classroom.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Pam Miller; Instructor Assistant

Pam is a Preschool Instructor Assistant at Forest Rose School. She has been a classroom assistant at Forest Rose for 15 years. She has a brother who was born with brain damage and she always admired the people who loved and cared for him. She has been married to her husband Ron for 31 years and they have 2 grown children. Pam collects antiques and loves history.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Dayna Rhea; Instructor Assistant

Dayna is an Instructor Assistant at Forest Rose School. She has worked in the Special Education field for over 8 years, and holds an Associates Degree in Early Childhood Education.  In addition to providing love and support to the students, she does the same at home as a wife and mother of 2 amazing children.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Cheryl Roberts; Instructor Assistant

Cheryl is currently an Instructor Assistant at Forest Rose School but began her career as the Ancillary Aide.  Cheryl holds a Bachelor’s Degree in Education (Pre K-3) and is currently taking additional coursework in Special Education. Originally from Kentucky, holding steady with her accent, she resides in Granville with her husband and 2 children.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Sarah Tate; Instructor Assistant

Sarah is a preschool instructor assistant at Forest Rose School.  She received her BS in Music Therapy from Slippery Rock State University in Pennsylvania, majoring in Piano and minoring in Voice. In her free time she enjoys giving piano lessons.  She is a waiver and respite provider for Fairfield County.  She resides in Lancaster with her husband and 2 sons.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Alison Woodside; Instructor Assistant

Alison has worked as a Substitute Teacher for the last 3 1/2 years.  She is currently a Classroom Assistant at Forest Rose School and holds a Bachelors Degree in Specialized Studies from Ohio University.  Alison is married to Ray Woodside and they have two wonderful children, Alexis and Colin.  Her hobbies include; reading and traveling.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

Judy Meek; Food Services Manager

Judy has been the Food Service Manager at Forest Rose School for 22 years. Her job includes creating a monthly menu, ordering food to maintain inventory, cooking, and serving staff, students and volunteers. In addition to food preparation Judy is responsible for record-keeping and ensures the school cafeteria follows regulations and maintains compliance. Judy is a graduate of Columbus State and has an Associates Degree in Food Service. She has been married to Tim Meek for 34 years, and they have 1 daughter and 5 grandchildren. In her spare time Judy enjoys playing with her grandchildren, knitting, cross stitching and swinging on the front porch.

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225
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Janet Fleming; Food Services Assistant

Contact Information:
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225

The Department of Quality

The Department of Quality's main responsibility

Nate Griffin, Director of Quality

Nate has over 35 years of experience in the field and has worked for Fairfield DD since 1996. His employment during the 35 years plus includes work at a state operated developmental center, several years as a director of a private provider agency, and the remainder of his time with three different county boards of developmental disabilities.

Over the course of his career, Nate’s basic believes have not waivered - individuals with disabilities should have equal opportunities to a full and enriched life. However, his views on how that can be accomplished has evolved and is captured by Fairfield DD's mission and values. His believes has also been molded by his personal life experiences with his family that includes his wife and their three children, one with severe mental retardation. Being a parent has given him a personal perspective about obstacles other families encounter, and also has been a source of strength when encountering challenges in his career and personal life.

Even after three plus decades of work, Nate still finds the work very rewarding and satisfying, and he wonders want the future will bring.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Leah Holden, Planning Coordinator

Leah has been with Fairfield DD since 2002. She began her career in the developmental disabilities system in Perry County, where she was associated with Residential Inc. and Family Advocacy and where she was first exposed to teachings about normalization and citizen advocacy. She worked for 14 years at the Arc of Ohio, where parents of young children with disabilities were her teachers through the Family First project. For several years she traveled the state of Ohio studying and teaching about supported living and person-centered planning and later spent three years at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities working on public policy, including waiting lists and behavior support. She was a founding member of Ohio-SAFE (Schools Are For Everyone) and is a current member of the Ohio-TASH board.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Mary Kay Banville, Investigative Liaison

Mary Kay holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Health and Human Services from Ohio University and has over 25 years of experience in the in the field of Developmental Disabilities.  As Investigative Liaison, her duties concentrate on crisis intervention, consultation and triage, incident screening, and all aspects of incident coordination.  In addition, she is involved with training providers, and individuals relative to mandated training, as well as, subjects related to crime victimization.  She collaborates with professionals outside of the Developmental Disabilities discipline frequently on issues related to crime victims with disabilities.

She is committed to community outreach as a member of the Child Advocacy Center of Fairfield County's Multidisciplinary Team, and is a trained forensic interviewer in several nationally accepted interview protocols.  She is also a member of the Attorney General Office’s Sexual Assault Response Training Team, which provides training and technical assistance to first responders across the State.

Contact Information:

Mark Giesler, Quality Assurance Specialist

Mark has been a Quality Assurance Specialist since 2002.  He began his career with Fairfield DD in 1989 as a substitute in the Adult Services program.  He became a Habilitation Aide in 1990, a Job Coach in 1991, and a Case Manager in 2001

Contact Information:

Karissa Carpenter, Planning Coordinator

Karissa is finishing up her Bachelors Degree in Psychology from The Ohio State University and comes to us from a 7 year career in Licking County with the Licking Park District.  Her love of nature AND nurture keeps her in career fields where she can go home and night and know she is making a difference somewhere, and to someone.  She says, "Being able to see and feel something from a career is almost as rewarding as being a mother to my two year old daughter, Nova Lynn."  Karissa is excited to be a new member of the FCBDD's family and looks forward to her future with them and the amazing ride that is yet to come.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Administrative Support

The Administrative Support Staff of the Services and Supports Department offers assistance in the capacity of Resource Management to the individuals, families, and communities as we find more creative ways to support a person’s desired outcomes. These supports can be through the community, a natural support, local dollars, a grant, or federal funding.

Debra Albert, Director of Services and Supports

Debra joined the Fairfield DD team in September of 2009 as Director of Services and Supports.  In this capacity, she oversees the program areas of Individual Support Coordination, Intake, Behavior Support, Family Support Services, Medicaid Reimbursement, Individual Budgeting, and 24-hour Crisis Intervention. Debra has worked in the developmental disabilities field as a program or fiscal consultant for the past 15 years. She also worked for the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities prior to her years in private practice. She believes it is a true honor to serve at the direction of both the Superintendent and the Board to support individuals with disabilities in Fairfield County.  Providing support to both staff and individuals so they have the opportunity to become greater advocates, learn more about themselves, and grow as community members is a privilege.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Michelle Dexter, Individual Budget and Medicaid Services Supervisor

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Joelle Gardner, Medicaid Specialist

Joelle started working at Fairfield DD in September 2007 as Support Assistant, and now serves as Medicaid Specialist.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Susan Sarlo, Individual Benefits Coordinator

Susan has been with Fairfield DD for the past fifteen years and has a total of 19 years of experience helping adults and children with developmental disabilities.  She pulls from her past experience as a teacher, vocational trainer, workshop specialist and habilitation specialist to coordinate service and supports needed by the individuals and their families on her caseload.

Susan graduated from Ohio University and worked many jobs to fund her dual Bachelor Degrees in Education  (Art and Learning Disabilities, k-12.)  She shares that her experiences in working and managing retail,  food service and light assembly, and playing in OU's symphonic and chamber orchestras, have been invaluable in both understanding the supports individuals need in their jobs, as well as the need to find the right fit for each person's strengths and interests.

Susan works with eligible adults and their natural and paid supports.  She specializes in government benefits, medical and prescription assistance programs and community resources, and volunteers her time helping senior citizens to access these same resources.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Tammy Fisher, Individual Budget Specialist

Tammy Fisher joined Fairfield DD in 2003 as the Administrative Secretary for the Services and Supports Department. Tammy’s daily duties include processing invoices and purchase orders, working with the agency’s client database, provides training to waiver provider and other various duties. Tammy worked in an entirely different field prior to coming to Fairfield DD, but believes that with all of her experiences, being in this field has been the most educational and rewarding.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Kristi Patrick, Service Utilization Specialist

Kristi was hired in September 2009 as an ISC Assistant.  In her current position she works very closely with ISC’s, providers and individuals served by Fairfield DD.  Kristi’s caring personality and willingness to help has made Fairfield DD a perfect fit for her.  Before accepting her current position she served as a Support Assistant at the administration building where she was able to assist in the Family Support Services, Behavior Support, MUI/UI and Medicaid Billing.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Vikki Clark, Secretary

Vikki started at Fairfield DD in March of 2005.  She answers the phone and organizes the front desk at the Administration building, and yes, she loves answering the phone.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Carrie Oxenrider, File Clerk

Carrie has been a File Clerk in the Fairfield DD administrative office since 2008.  Carrie enjoys her work because of the friendly work environment and because she enjoys filing papers in the right order.  Carrie's duties include filing necessary paperwork in individuals' files and transfers outdated information to the archives.

Carrie is also a member of the Human Rights Committee and is Vice-President of the AKTION Club.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Courtney Pendleton, File Clerk

Courtney moved to Ohio from North Carolina in 2008. Her dreams when she moved here with her Aunt and Uncle were to be as independent as possible. After being involved in a motor vehicle accident and suffering a traumatic brain injury in 1997, she has come leaps and bounds. She now lives with a roommate and loves her job as a file clerk at the Fairfield County Board of DD. When she is not working, she is swimming at the YMCA, doing art at Art & Clay on Main, going to church, reading books or singing her favorite song. Courtney loves life now.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
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Introduction and Eligibility

The FCBDD Introduction and Eligibility department determines eligibility for DD services for all individuals age three and above. Staff in the department supports individuals and families during the eligibility process. Criteria for eligibility is determined by age. Staff is also able to assist non-eligible people and their families find alternative services that may meet their needs.

Chanda Busse, Discovery Services Manager

Chanda lives in Lancaster with her black lab, Isabelle. She is a recent employee of the Muskingum County Board of DD as a Service and Support Administrator. Prior to that she serves for nine years as the Director of Service Coordination at the Licking County Board of DD. Chanda spent two and a half years at the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities  as a Quality Assurance Surveyor and a Social Worker for seven years for the Franklin County Board of DD.

Chanda Attended The Ohio State University for undergraduate and graduate coursework and she has a Master's Degree in Social Work.

She says Lancaster is a great place to live and a place she cannot wait to work in. She is excited about her new opportunities with the Fairfield County Board of DD.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
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Sarah Quinn, Behavior Support and Intake

Sarah graduated summa cum laude from Ohio University in 2004 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a minor in Philosophy.  She began her career at New Horizons Youth and Family Center as a Kid’s Community Psychiatric Support Treatment Case Manager.  At New Horizons, Sarah helped to coordinate mental health services within the agency and with other community agencies and schools.  Sarah also helped to teach children anger management, coping, and social skills, as well as assisted parents with parenting strategies for children with mental health needs.  In addition, Sarah connected children and their families with community resources and positive activities.  She was a member of the Family, Adult, and Children First Council’s Interagency Team and worked closely with home-based therapists as part of the New Horizons step-down program.  Sarah joined Fairfield DD as an Individual Support Coordinator in February of 2008 with a focus on serving children with developmental disabilities and their families.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Family Support Services

Family Support Services is a program designed to assist families who are caring for a family member with a disability, when that person resides in their home. Reimbursable services and supports through Family Support Services are tailored to the unique needs of the individual. Through FSS you can get information, referrals, respite care, and purchase orders for the purchase of certain items.

Kathy Curry, Family Support Services Coordinator

Kathy Curry has been employed by the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities for over 15 years.  She continues to proudly serve Fairfield DD as the Family Support Services Coordinator.  In addition to being the FSS Coordinator, Kathy previously served as the Receptionist and the Secretary for Community Services (currently known as the Services and  Supports Department).  Kathy’s previous employment included The Ohio State University and Hocking College. She has obtained a diverse background of experience while  working for the colleges and Fairfield DD.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Individual Support Coordinator

Our team is focused on assisting the individual, their family, and community partners designate the individual's strengths, interests, and concerns so all areas of life are supported. To ensure the system is sharing the responsibility for looking for and achieving the results the individual desires.

Teresa Scarpitti, ISC Supervisor

Teresa Scarpitti is the Individual Support Coordination Supervisor for the Pickerington Regional Office. Teresa is a Licensed Social Worker and holds a Bachelor of Science Degree in Child Development and Family Services from The Ohio State University.  Teresa has worked in the social service field for over 30 years, and has worked for Fairfield DD since 2005.

Teresa resides in Fairfield County with her husband Mark, their daughter Elizabeth, and son David.

Contact Information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Yves Couasnon, ISC Assistant

Yves joined Fairfield DD as an ISC Assistant at the Pickerington Regional Office in September 2009. She assists ISCs in the coordination of supports, services, and the monitoring of the same.  Yves administers COEDI/OEDI for intake in the community and is a member of the newsletter committee and the Pickerington Advisory Committee.  Yves brings skills and insight from her experience as a paralegal in Family Law.  She has a BA in Art History from Valparaiso University and Paralegal Certification from Capital University Law School. In her spare time, she teaches English to international students at OSU and is a member of the Choral Union at Capital University. She has particularly enjoyed learning that her “quirky” personality is only a coping mechanism for her own developmental disabilities.

Contact Information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Cathy Varney, Individual Support Coordinator

Cathy joined the Fairfield DD team in January of 2006 as an Individual Support Coordinator.  She began her career in 1991 when she was employed with The Franklin County DD as a workshop substitute. During her work there she obtained her bachelor’s degree in Special Education with a focus on Developmentally Handicapped and Severe Behavior Handicaps. Following college, Cathy worked in different aspects of the field, finally finding her way to Fairfield County where she lives and plans to continue her work.

Contact information:

Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Mike Woodall, Individual Support Coordinator

Mike joined the Pickerington Regional Office in November 2011.  He is a graduate of Pickerington High School and received a BA in Economics from The Ohio State University.  Mike also completed the Bachelors Plus program at Ashland University in May 2011 to receive an Intervention Specialist Mild to Moderate teaching license.  He is married to Sheila, a first grade teacher in Pickerington, and they have a son, Alex, who is attending Wright State University.  Mike's hero is his son Alex.  Alex, who has cerebral palsy, is a dynamic person who makes an impact on everyone he meets.  Being the parent of a son with special needs has given Mike the passion to help others with disabilities.  Working as an ISC is Mike's "dream" job and he feels blessed to have this opportunity to serve others.

Contact Information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Marie Cummerlander, Individual Support Coordinator

Marie is an Individual Support Coordinator in the Pickerington Regional Office, specializing in services for children.

Marie is a licensed social worker, having received a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from Capital University in 1983.  She has been working on behalf of individuals with disabilities since 1981, first as a residential staff person for a group home and later as a Placement Specialist for one of Ohio’s first model adoption programs for individuals with special needs.  In 1993 she received the Adoption Social Worker of the Year Award for her work in placing children with special needs.  Marie is a former Board President for the ARC of Fairfield County.  She is co-founder of Steppin' Out, a non-profit organization that provides recreational opportunities for individuals with special needs.  Marie worked for a short time as a job coach for the LIFEworks Program before becoming an Individual Support Coordinator in 2009.

Marie and her husband have three children, one of whom has autism. For Marie, working in service of individuals and their families has been a professional and personal vocation for over 20 years.

Contact information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Darrick Jackson, Individual Support Coordinator

Darrick is married with two children. His daughter, Savannah, is six and loves to dance. His son, Darrick, is three months old and is so much fun. My wife, Melissa, is a social worker in Franklin County and is the happiest person he has ever met. He has a BA in History from The Ohio State University and a Master's in Education from Mt. Vernon Nazarene University. Currently, he is working on his EDD in Leadership and Policy at Ashland University. His wife encouraged him to try something different years ago, which led him in to the DD field. He has been a Home Manager, QMRP, SL Supervisor and SL Director for a provider in Central Ohio for the last three years.

Contact Information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Julie Bruckelmeyer, Individual Support Coordinator

Julie has been an Individual Support Coordinator for Fairfield DD since October of 2009. She primarily serves families of children ages 3 to 14.  Prior to joining our Services and Support Team, Julie researched, raised funds and opened a licensed faith-based preschool at her local church. She later served as preschool director and teacher for five years. She also worked for National City Corporation for eight years as a Human Resources Training and Development Instructor and Coordinator of the Retail Management Trainee Program.  Julie obtained her BS in Communications from Ohio University, Athens, before marrying and raising four children in the Fairfield County area. She was ushered into the DD world at the birth of her second son who was born with Down’s syndrome. She reports being very grateful for the opportunity to share her life experience in helping other families who have children with special needs.

Contact Information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
e-mail

Debra Whittingham-Short, Individual Support Coordinator

Debra joined the Pickerington Regional Office in June 2012 as an Individual Support Coordinator. Debra earned her BA in Psychology from Ohio Wesleyan University and her MS in Management from Ohio Dominican University. Debra comes to Fairfield DD from a mental health center for youth on the Autism spectrum, and after an eight year career in the U.S. Army Reserve. She enjoys spending time scrapbooking and doing various outdoor activities with her husband, Shawn, and two step-children, Cayden and Cruz. She looks forward to a long and rewarding career with Fairfield DD.

Contact Information:
Pickerington Regional Office
11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535
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Wendy Ricker, ISC Supervisor

Wendy has been an Individual Support Coordination Supervisor since April 2008.  She has served in multiple capacities in her career with Fairfield DD including Individual Support Coordinator and Community Employment Services Manager.  She possesses experience from the fields of mental health counseling, case management and vocational rehabilitation.  Wendy enjoys the challenges and rewards of her career with Fairfield DD.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Melissa Delong, ISC Assistant

Melissa Delong first started as a Job Coach in January 2010.  As a Job Coach her first project was the greenhouse at OU-L working with Rob Allen of the Lancaster Greenhouse.  Melissa really enjoyed that project and the individuals she worked with.  Melissa also job coached at The Zone and the Sears/K-Mart project.  Her position recently switched to an ISC Assisant, and she hopes to continue to grow and change as her new position allows.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
email

Tanna Neal, Individual Support Coordinator

As a graduate of Ashland University, Tanna began working for children services and soon transitioned into service coordination for the Richland County Board of DD. Tanna is now joining The Fairfield County Board of DD in an effort to continue her service efforts and fulfill her personal aspirations. She is relocating to the Columbus area to join her fiance, Cody, as they begin a new life journey together. They currently have two cats, otherwise known as their "children," and enjoy outside activities such as hiking, boating and camping.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-722
e-mail

Linda Pulsinelli, Individual Support Coordinator

Linda is a Lancaster native and a graduate of Ohio University.  Linda has worked for Fairfield DD for the last 20 years.  Linda started as a substitute at Fairfield Industries, then became the Recreation Specialist until 2000, when she became an Individual Support Coordinator.  Linda is very familiar with the individuals she serves as well as many other families involved with services through Fairfield DD.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Carla Everly, Individual Support Coordinator

Carla has been an Individual Support Coordinator since 2003. Carla came to work at Fairfield DD in 1983 and has worked in many areas within the program. She began as a Habilitation Specialist/Workshop Specialist, and also worked in Community Employment Services as a job coach. Carla assisted Deanna Kirwin, the first person with developmental disabilities in the State of Ohio to start her own business with a Micro-Enterprise Grant. Carla has a total of over 30 years of experience in the field of developmental disabilities and continues to enjoy the challenges and experiences that her job brings her.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-722
e-mail

Carla Stiers, Individual Support Coordinator

Carla is a graduate of Ohio University with a Bachelor’s degree in Secondary Education.  Over the past 20 years she has worked with children in the fields of Education, Child Protective Services and  as Children’s Individual Support Coordinator for Fairfield DD.  Of all the jobs she has had working with children and families, she finds the work she does With FairfieldDD as her most rewarding experience.  "My job at Fairfield DD has given me the opportunity to know and  work with the most phenomenal children and parents.  I thank them all for continuing to teach  me the true meaning of strength, perseverance, hope, and dignity.”

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Alysha Blagg, Individual Support Coordinator

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
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Lois Everitt, ISC Supervisor

Lois has been employed with Fairfield DD for 15 years. She began her employment as a Habilitation Specialist at Fairfield Industries, and then transitioned to the role of  Individual Support Coordinator in the Department of Services and Supports.  In April 2008 she began her current  role as an ISC Supervisor.  In this position she supports seven Individual Support Coordinators in a supervisory role.

Lois graduated from Ohio University with a Bachelor of Science Degree from the College of Health and Human Services, specializing in therapeutic recreation.  Lois has over 29 years experience working in the field of developmental disabilities, both in the private and public sector, a variety of positions including volunteering, direct care staff, QMRP, and a Program Director.

Lois lives by the philosophy that we should live each day to our fullest and enjoy the present because each day is a gift given to us.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Secret Withem, ISC Assistant

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
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Nicole Kemp, Individual Support Coordinator

Nicole joined the Fairfield DD team in August of 2011 as an Individual Support Coordinator.  She is a graduate of The Ohio University and holds a Bachelor's degree in Psychology. Prior to working with FCBDD, she began her career working at New Horizons as an Integrated Dual Diagnosis Case Manager. Nicole is married to Dan Kemp, who also works for FCBDD and they have two beautiful little girls Madison and Miley.  Nicole feels grateful for the opportunity to work with individuals and their families to help them find the supports they may need.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Janie Heston, Individual Support Coordinator

Janie started as an ISC Assistant at the Lancaster office in August of 2009, and became an ISC in 2011.  She has a Bachelors of Specialized Studies Degree from Ohio University which she earned in 2008. She really enjoys the variety of work she encounters daily.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

LaTisha Bloom, Individual Support Coordinator

LaTisha is a 2008 graduate of Bowling Green State University. She received her Bachelor's degree in Education and Human Development with a focus on Developmental Disabilities and Habilitation. She began her career as a job coach with Fairfield DD's Community Employment Services from 2008 to early 2011. She moved on from community employment to be an Individual Support Coordinator for Fairfield DD and is currently in this position. She has passion for the work she does and enjoys working with her transition youth caseload. She hopes to continue in this field for a long time helping individuals and families find the supports they need.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
email

Stacie Fisher, Individual Support Coordinator

Stacie began working as an Individual Support Coordinator for Fairfield DD in February of 2008.  Stacie received her Bachelors of Science in Human and Consumer Sciences with a major in Family Studies from Ohio University.  Prior to her work with Fairfield DD, she worked for Perry County Job & Family Services as an Adult Protective Services case investigator .

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Shelly Schoen, Individual Support Coordinator

Shelly received her degree from Ohio Christian University with a major in Business Management and Ethics in 2007.  She graduated Magna Cum Laude of her class.  Her career in the field began in 1998 working with Employment Training Center where she worked as a Job Developer and Job Coach for 2 years.  She then went to work for Pickaway County DD as a Job Developer and Job Coach for 9 years.  At that point the county privatized and she went with the non-profit sector Pickaway Diversified, Inc. as the Program Manager of Community Employment for the next 2 years.  She came to work for Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities in October, 2011.  She is happy to be here and is enjoying her work!

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Alishia Snoke, Individual Support Coordinator

Alishia has been a licensed Social Worker for nine years. She received a Bachelor of Arts degree with a major in social work from Wright State University in 2001.  She worked over two years as a Nursing Home Social Worker and then over 5 years as an ongoing case worker with Fairfield County Child Protective Services.  Alishia has a love for social work and public service.  As a high school student, Alishia completed a service project working with children from Forest Rose. That work solidified her career path in social work.  She is pleased to be working with the FCBDD.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Behavior Support

Behavior Support provides each individual on aversive plan, and their team, oversight and training to ensure the plan is implemented properly and with the goal of fading. The Behavior Support team provides ongoing training to staff and to community partners to ensure the appropriate implementation of the Behavior Support Rules of the Ohio Department of Development Disabilities.

Heidi Reichenbach, Intake and Behavioral Services Supervisor

Heidi is currently employed as the Intake and Behavioral Services Supervisor for the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities.  She has been employed in the developmental disabilities field for the past 27 years, with the last 22 being with Fairfield DD.  She holds a Master’s degree in Social Sciences from The Ohio University and a Bachelor’s Degree in Social Work from The Ohio State University.

Contact Information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
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Sarah Quinn, Behavior Support and Intake

Sarah graduated summa cum laude from Ohio University in 2004 with a Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology and a minor in Philosophy.  She began her career at New Horizons Youth and Family Center as a Kid’s Community Psychiatric Support Treatment Case Manager.  At New Horizons, Sarah helped to coordinate mental health services within the agency and with other community agencies and schools.  Sarah also helped to teach children anger management, coping, and social skills, as well as assisted parents with parenting strategies for children with mental health needs.  In addition, Sarah connected children and their families with community resources and positive activities.  She was a member of the Family, Adult, and Children First Council’s Interagency Team and worked closely with home-based therapists as part of the New Horizons step-down program.  Sarah joined Fairfield DD as an Individual Support Coordinator in February of 2008 with a focus on serving children with developmental disabilities and their families.

Contact information:
795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220
e-mail

Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities Board Member Code of Ethics

Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities board members are expected to maintain the highest possible ethical and moral standards and to perform within the laws of the State of Ohio and other rules and regulations as may be set forth or interpreted by the Board. It is essential that the public maintain confidence in the Board. For this reason, it is important that board members refrain from any action that gives unwarranted preferential treatment to any individual, group or entity.

Ethical Standards

A. Board Members are expected to conduct themselves in a professional and courteous manner.
B. Board Members are encouraged to refrain from business relationships, which could be determined to be in direct conflict with the goals and missions of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
C. Board members will continually review the mission and strategic plan of the organization and make modifications as appropriate.
D. In support of effective governance of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the board believes and affirms annually:

1. That it derives its authority from the Ohio Revised Code and the powers set forth therein governing County Boards of Developmental Disabilities.
2. That people with developmental disabilities are provided the supports to live a life that they choose.
3. That consumer choice includes responsibility and control of identified funds.
4. That it must clearly define and articulate its role and its primary voice is through policy and open public meetings.
5. That a significant responsibility is to provide timely and honest feedback regarding the Superintendent’s performance.
6. That it always strives to differentiate between external and internal processes in the exercise of its authority.
7. That its Board members should engage in a regular and on-going process of in-service training and continuous improvement.
8. That its members come to each meeting prepared and ready to discuss issues fully and openly.
9. That its behavior, and that of its members, exemplify ethical behavior and conduct that is above reproach.
10. That it honestly debates the issues affecting children and adults with developmental disabilities and speaks with one voice once a decision or policy is made.

Occupational Therapy Code of Ethics

PRINCIPLE 1: BENEFICENCE - Occupational therapy personnel shall demonstrate a concern for the well-being of the recipients of their services.

Occupational therapy personnel shall provide services in a fair and equitable manner. They shall recognize and appreciate the cultural components of economics, geography, race, ethnicity, religious and political factors, marital status, sexual orientation, and disability of all recipients of their services.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall strive to ensure that fees are fair and reasonable and commensurate with services performed. When occupational therapy practitioners set fees, they shall set fees considering institutional, local, state, and federal requirements, and with due regard for the service recipient's ability to pay.
Occupational therapy personnel shall make every effort to advocate for recipients to obtain needed services through available means.

PRINCIPLE 2: NONMALEFICENCE - Occupational therapy personnel shall take reasonable precautions to avoid imposing or inflicting harm upon the recipient of services or to his or her property.

Occupational therapy personnel shall maintain relationships that do not exploit the recipient of services sexually, physically, emotionally, financially, socially, or in any other manner.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall avoid relationships or activities that interfere with professional judgment and objectivity.

PRINCIPLE 3: AUTONOMY, PRIVACY AND CONFIDENTIALITY - Occupational therapy personnel shall respect the recipient and/or their surrogate(s) as well as the recipient's rights.

Occupational therapy practitioners shall collaborate with service recipients or their surrogate(s) in setting goals and priorities throughout the intervention process.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall fully inform the service recipients of the nature, risks, and potential outcomes of any interventions.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall obtain informed consent from participants involved in research activities and indicate that they have fully informed and advised the participants of potential risks and outcomes. Occupational therapy practitioners shall endeavor to ensure that the participant(s) comprehend these risks and outcomes.
Occupational therapy personnel shall respect the individual's right to refuse professional services or involvement in research or educational activities.
Occupational therapy personnel shall protect all privileged confidential forms of written, verbal, and electronic communication gained from educational, practice, research, and investigational activities unless otherwise mandated by local, state, or federal regulations.

PRINCIPLE 4: DUTIES - Occupational therapy personnel shall achieve and continually maintain high standards of competence.

Occupational therapy practitioners shall hold the appropriate national and state credentials for the services they provide.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall use procedures that conform to the standards of practice and other appropriate AOTA documents relevant to practice.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall take responsibility for maintaining and documenting competence by participating in professional development and educational activities.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall critically examine and keep current with emerging knowledge relevant to their practice so they may perform their duties on the basis of accurate information.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall protect service recipients by ensuring that duties assumed by or assigned to other occupational therapy personnel match credentials, qualifications, experience, and scope of practice.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall provide appropriate supervision to individuals for whom the practitioners have supervisory responsibility in accordance with Association policies, local, state and federal laws, and institutional values.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall refer to or consult with other service providers whenever such a referral or consultation would be helpful to the care of the recipient of service. The referral or consultation process should be done in collaboration with the recipient of service.

PRINCIPLE 5: JUSTICE - Occupational therapy personnel shall comply with laws and Association policies guiding the profession of occupational therapy.

Occupational therapy personnel shall familiarize themselves with and seek to understand and abide by applicable Association policies; local, state, and federal laws; and institutional rules.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall remain abreast of revisions in those laws and Association policies that apply to the profession of occupational therapy and shall inform employers, employees, and colleagues of those changes.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall require those they supervise in occupational therapy-related activities to adhere to the Code of Ethics.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall take reasonable steps to ensure employers are aware of occupational therapy's ethical obligations, as set forth in this Code of Ethics, and of the implications of those obligations for occupational therapy practice, education, and research.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall record and report in an accurate and timely manner all information related to professional activities.

PRINCIPLE 6: VERACITY - Occupational therapy personnel shall provide accurate information about occupational therapy services.

Occupational therapy personnel shall accurately represent their credentials, qualifications, education, experience, training, and competence. This is of particular importance for those to whom occupational therapy personnel provide their services or with whom occupational therapy practitioners have a professional relationship.
Occupational therapy personnel shall disclose any professional, personal, financial, business, or volunteer affiliations that may pose a conflict of interest to those with whom they may establish a professional, contractual, or other working relationship.
Occupational therapy personnel shall refrain from using or participating in the use of any form of communication that contains false, fraudulent, deceptive, or unfair statements or claims.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall accept the responsibility for their professional actions which reduce the public's trust in occupational therapy services and those that perform those services.

PRINCIPLE 7: FIDELITY - Occupational therapy personnel shall treat colleagues and other professionals with fairness, discretion, and integrity.

Occupational therapy personnel shall preserve, respect, and safeguard confidential information about colleagues and staff, unless otherwise mandated by national, state, or local laws.
Occupational therapy practitioners shall accurately represent the qualifications, views, contributions, and findings of colleagues.
Occupational therapy personnel shall take adequate measures to discourage, prevent, expose, and correct any breaches of the Code of Ethics and report any breaches of the Code of Ethics to the appropriate authority.
Occupational therapy personnel shall familiarize themselves with established policies and procedures for handling concerns about this Code of Ethics, including familiarity with national, state, local, district, and territorial procedures for handling ethics complaints. These include policies and procedures created by the American Occupational Therapy Association, licensing and regulatory bodies, employers, agencies, certification boards, and other organizations who have jurisdiction over occupational therapy practice.

Speech Therapy Code of Ethics

PRINCIPLE 1: WELFARE OF PERSONS SERVED PROFESSIONALLY - Individuals shall hold paramount the welfare of persons served professionally.

Individuals shall use every resource available, including referral to other specialists as needed to provide the best service possible.
Individuals shall fully inform persons served of the nature and possible side effects of the services.
Individuals shall fully inform subjects participating in research or teaching activities of the nature and possible effects of these activities. Consent from subjects is necessary. Subjects shall reserve the right to withdraw from the activity at any time.
Individuals shall provide appropriate access to records of persons served professionally.
Individuals shall take all reasonable precautions to avoid injuring persons in the delivery of professional services.
Individuals shall evaluate services rendered to determine effectiveness.
Individuals must not exploit persons in the delivery of professional services, including accepting persons for treatment when benefit cannot reasonably be expected or continuing treatment unnecessarily.
Individuals must not evaluate or treat speech, language or hearing disorders except in a professional relationship. They must not evaluate or treat solely by correspondence. This does not preclude follow-up correspondence with persons previously seen, nor providing them with general information of an educational nature.
Individual must not reveal to unauthorized persons any professional or personal information obtained from the person served professionally, unless required by laws or unless necessary to protect the welfare of the person or the community.

PRINCIPLE 2: STANDARDS OF PROFESSIONAL COMPETENCE - Individual shall maintain high standards of professional competence.

Individuals must maintain appropriate qualification.
Individuals shall continue their professional development throughout their careers.
Individuals shall maintain adequate records of professional services rendered.
Individuals must neither provide clinical services nor supervision of services for which they have not been properly prepared, nor permit services to be provided by any of their staff who are not properly prepared.
Individuals shall provide appropriate supervision and assume full responsibility for clinical services offered by support personnel.
Individuals shall not require anyone under their supervision to engage in any practice that is a violation of the Code of Ethics.
When making recommendations for their subjects, individuals should not be influenced by concern for their own professional advantage or pecuniary interests.

PRINCIPLE 3: COMMUNICATION - Individuals’ statements to persons served professionally and to the public shall provide accurate information about the nature and management of communicative disorders and about the profession and services rendered by its practitioners.

Individuals must not represent their training or competence.
Individuals public statement providing information about professional services and products must not contain representations or claims that are false, deceptive or misleading.
Individuals must not use professional or commercial affiliations in any way that would mislead or limit services to persons served professionally.

PRINCIPLE 4: DISPENSING PRODUCTS - Individuals who dispense products to persons served professionally shall observe the following standards:

Products associated for professional practice must be dispensed to the person served as a part of a program comprehensive habilitative care.
Persons served must be provided freedom of choice for source of service and products.
Products dispensed to the person served must be evaluated to determine effectiveness.

PRINCIPLE 5: - RESPONSIBILITES AND RELATIONSHIPS - Individuals shall honor their responsibilities to the public, their profession and their relationships with colleagues and members of allied professions.

Individuals shall seek to provide and expand services to persons with speech, language and hearing handicaps as well as to assist in establishing high professional standards for such programs.
Individuals shall educate the public about speech, language and hearing problems, and matters related professional competence.
Individuals should strive to increase knowledge within the profession and share research with colleagues.
Individuals shall establish harmonious relations with colleagues and members of other professions, and endeavor to inform members of related professions of services provided by speech therapists, as well as seek information from them.
Individuals should assign credit to those who have contributed to a publication in proportion to their contribution.

PRINCIPLE 6: STANDARDS - Individual shall uphold the dignity of the profession and freely accept the profession’s self-imposed standards.

Individuals shall report when they have reason to believe another professional may have violated the Code of Ethics.
Individuals shall not engage in violations of the Code of Ethics or in any attempt to circumvent any of them.
Individuals shall not engage in dishonesty, fraud, deceit, misrepresentation, or other forms of illegal conduct that adversely reflect on the profession of the individuals’ fitness for membership in the profession.

Public Relations Code of Ethics

PRINCIPLE 1: FREE FLOW OF INFORMATION - Protecting and advancing the free flow of accurate and truthful information is essential to serving the public interest and contributing to informed decision making in a democratic society.

Intent

To maintain the integrity of relationships with the media, government officials, and the public.
To aid informed decision making.

Guidelines
Public relations efforts shall:
Preserve the integrity of the process of communication.
Be honest and accurate in all communications.
Act promptly to correct erroneous communications for which the practitioner is responsible.
Preserve the free flow of unprejudiced information when giving or receiving gifts by ensuring that gifts are nominal, legal, and infrequent.

PRINCIPLE 2: COMPETITION - Promoting healthy and fair competition among professionals preserves an ethical climate while fostering a robust business environment.

Intent

To promote respect and fair competition among public relations professionals.
To serve the public interest by providing the widest choice of practitioner options.

Guidelines

Public relations efforts shall:

Follow ethical hiring practices designed to respect free and open competition without deliberately undermining a competitor.
Preserve intellectual property rights in the marketplace.

PRINCIPLE 3: DISCLOSURE OF INFORMATION - Open communication fosters informed decision making in a democratic society.

Intent

To build trust with the public by revealing all information needed for responsible decision making.

Guidelines

Public relations efforts shall:

Be honest and accurate in all communications.
Act promptly to correct erroneous communications for which the organization is responsible.
Investigate the truthfulness and accuracy of information released on behalf of those represented.
Reveal the sponsors for causes and interests represented.
Disclose financial interest (such as stock ownership) in the organization.
Avoid deceptive practices.

PRINCIPLE 4: SAFEGUARDING CONFIDENCES - Client trust requires appropriate protection of confidential and private information.

Intent

To protect the privacy rights of clients, organizations, and individuals by safeguarding confidential information.

Guidelines

Public relations efforts shall:

Safeguard the confidences and privacy rights of present, former, and prospective clients and employees.
Protect privileged, confidential, or insider information gained from a client or organization.
Immediately advise an appropriate authority if a member discovers that confidential information is being divulged by an employee of a client company or organization.

PRINCIPLE 5: CONFLICTS OF INTEREST - Avoiding real, potential, or perceived conflicts of interest builds the trust of clients, employers, and the publics.

Intent

To earn trust and mutual respect with clients or employers.
To build trust with the public by avoiding or ending situations that put one’s personal or professional interests in conflict with society’s interests.

Guidelines
Public relations efforts shall:

Act in the best interests of the client or employer, even subordinating the member’s personal interests.
Avoid actions and circumstances that may appear to compromise good business judgment or create a conflict between personal and professional interests.
Disclose promptly any existing or potential conflict of interest to affected clients or organizations.
Encourage clients and customers to determine if a conflict exists after notifying all affected parties.

PRINCIPLE 6: ENHANCING THE PROFESSION - Public relations professionals work constantly to strengthen the public’s trust in the profession.

Intent

To build respect and credibility with the public for the profession of public relations.
To improve, adapt, and expand professional practices.

Guidelines

Public relations efforts shall:

Serve the public interest by acting as responsible advocates for those we represent.
Provide a voice in the marketplace of ideas, facts, and viewpoints to aid informed public debate.
Acknowledge that there is an obligation to protect and enhance the profession.
Keep informed and educated about practices in the profession to ensure ethical conduct.
Actively pursue personal professional development.
Decline representation of clients or organizations that urge or require actions contrary to this Code.
Accurately define what public relations activities can accomplish.
Counsel subordinates in proper ethical decision making.
Require that subordinates adhere to the ethical requirements of the Code.
Report ethical violations, whether committed by PRSA members or not, to the appropriate authority.
Adhere to the highest standards of accuracy and truth in advancing the interests of those we represent and in communicating with the public.
Acquire and responsibly use specialized knowledge and experience.
Advance the profession through continued professional development, research, and education.
Build mutual understanding, credibility, and relationships among a wide array of institutions and audiences.
Provide objective counsel to those they represent.
Be accountable for their actions.
Be faithful to those they represent, while honoring the obligation to serve the public interest.
Deal fairly with clients, employers, competitors, peers, vendors, the media, and the general public.
Respect all opinions and support the right of free expression.

Administrative Services

Administrative Services of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities consists of the Superintendent's Office, Fiscal Services, Human Resources, Operations, and Community Outreach.

Superintendent's Office

The Superintendent of the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities serves as the chief executive officer of the organization, whose duties are prescribed in the Ohio Revised Code. The Superintendent is hired by the Board to lead and manage the organization based upon policies, plans, and directions approved by the Board.

You may contact the Superintendent, John Pekar:
In writing, at 795 College Avenue, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
By phone, at 740.652.7220
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Fiscal Services

The primary responsibility of Fiscal Services is to maintain a positive cash flow to ensure that all programs can operate effectively. Effective budgeting and monitoring are essential to this end. Each month the Board is presented with financial reports showing planned and actual revenue and expenses and projections for the remainder of the year. This enables the Board members and Leadership Team to identify potential cash shortfalls and make any adjustments that may be needed.

The fiscal function is also responsible for the routine day to day activities of making deposits, paying bills, coordinating with county officials, managing payroll and overseeing the purchasing and receiving responsibilities.

On average, approximately 63% of our annual revenue comes from local property taxes voted on by county residents. The state provides 9%, while 18% comes from Medicaid and other federal reimbursements. On the expense side, 54% goes to salaries and benefits, 29% to contract services, 8% to Medicaid waiver match and fees, 7% to supplies and other, and 2% to capital expenses. 89% of our budget goes for program services in the areas of service and support coordination, adult services, educational and children's services, transportation, building and grounds, and quality, with 11% going for administrative services.

You may contact the Chief Fiscal Officer, Beth Seifert:
In writing, at 795 College Avenue, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
By phone, at 740.652.7220
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Human Resources

The goal of the Human Resources function is to insure that sufficiently trained staff are on hand so that the Board can carry out its mission. Human Resouces is responsible for hiring, salary system oversight, evaluation processes, and benefits administration.

Fairfield DD currently has approximately 130 full time equivalent employees in both direct service and support positions. All employees of the Board are civil service employees, either classified or unclassified. All positions require at least a high school diploma or equivalent. All direct service positions are either required to be licensed by the Ohio Department of Education or be certified or registered by the Ohio Department of DD.

Because we are dealing with individuals who require strict attention to health and safety issues, state law requires that we thoroughly screen all final job applicants by performing not only a criminal background check, but also checks of the DD Abuse Registry, the state Nurses Registry, Federal Exemption registries, and state driving records. In addition, all final applicants must successfully complete a medical exam including drug screening. All employees must serve a probation period of one year.

Working for Fairfield DD requires a very dedicated individual. If you are interested in a position with us, all of our position openings are posted on our website and at each program location.

You may contact the Director of Human Resources and Operations, Cindy Hillberry:
In writing, at 795 College Avenue, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
By phone, at 740.652.7220
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Operations

The primary mission of Operations is to ensure the continuation of programs and services offered by Fairfield DD. Currently, the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities is responsible for maintaining buildings operated by the Board.

Operations is accountable for developing contracts and services regarding new construction and the preservation of buildings and grounds, and has the responsibility to purchase equipment, supplies, and materials that are vitally necessary to assure the efficient and effective operation of Board operated facilities and programs.

You may contact the Director of Human Resources and Operations, Cindy Hillberry:
In writing, at 795 College Avenue, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
By phone, at 740.652.7220
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Community Outreach

Community Outreach serves a pipeline between Fairfield DD and the Fairfield County community. Community Outreach has two primary areas, communications and volunteers, each essentially important to the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Although communication is a program-wide responsibility, Community Outreach is the coordinating liaison between Fairfield DD and the public, to give community members the information it needs to be aware of our programs and services. This includes media and press relations, monthly newsletters, agency brochures, and radio and television programming.

Volunteers are a necessary piece of the Fairfield DD program, because they bring valuable knowledge, talented expertise, and willing hearts to assist the staff and individuals with special projects and daily routines.

If you are interested in volunteering or wish to fine out more about our community outreach efforts, you may contact our Community Outreach Coordinator, John Bosser:
In writing, at 795 College Avenue, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
By phone, at 740.652.7220
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Department of Adult Service Options

The Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities Adult Service Options Department strives to support choices of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families within our community by promoting, providing , and funding services that are person-centered and directed, flexible, community inclusive, and supportive of the discovery and development of each individual’s unique gifts, talents and abilities. We are committed to providing service options to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives and make meaningful contributions.

Please read below to learn more about the array of adult services offered.

Transition Coordination

Early planning and preparation are essential for success in adulthood. The Fairfield County Board of DD Adult Services Options Transition Coordinator is available to assist individuals, families, school programs, and support teams in planning and coordinating of school to adult life transition services. The Fairfield County Board of DD Transition Coordinator serves as the Fairfield County project coordinator for the Ohio Rehabilitation Services grant initiative referred to as Bridges to Transition. Bridges to Transition serves as a catalyst for the innovative approach known as “Discovery” as well as the futures planning process known as MAPS. Our Transition Coordinator also facilitates the Fairfield County Transition Collaborative which is comprised of representatives from each of the Fairfield County School Districts, Fairfield County Board of DD, Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission, Fairfield County Jobs & Family Services, Social Security Administration, Southern Ohio Council for Independent Living, service providers, families and other stakeholders who are passionate about developing best-practice in transition services for Fairfield County. This group meets every other month at the Ohio University Lancaster Campus. The Fairfield County Transition Collaborative serves as a model for the State of Ohio.

For more information about Transition services please contact:

Center-Based Vocational and Employment Services

The Fairfield County Board of DD, through a joint operating agreement with Fairfield Industries, Inc., provides facility and community-based vocational training and work experiences for individuals with developmental disabilities. Individuals employed by Fairfield Industries have the opportunity to earn a paycheck and to develop work skills. The contracts and work opportunities provided by Fairfield Industries at the production facility located at the Opportunity Center generally consists of light assembly and packaging for many area businesses. In addition to earning a paycheck, individuals employed by Fairfield Industries work on refining work skills and reinforcing concepts related to work such as: responsibility, attendance, task completion, problem solving, social interaction, motor skill development, work hardening and safety. For additional information about Fairfield Industries, please visit their website at: www.fairfieldindustriesohio.com.

For more information about Center-Based Vocational and Employment Services, please contact:

Community Employment Services

The Fairfield County Board of DD supports each person’s desire to work, and believes that with adequate planning and supports each individual can be successful in employment.

Employment services are provided and/or funded by the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission. These services include: transportation, community-based assessment, vocational evaluation, personal and work adjustment, job shadowing, job coaching, soft-skills training, tutoring, travel training, job development, job placement, career exploration, benefits analysis, job club, safety-awareness, rehabilitation technology services and job retention and follow-along services.

Current Fairfield County Employment First Initiatives:

Project SEARCH is a partnership with the Fairfield Medical Center (FMC), Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools, the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission and the Fairfield County Board of DD. This program is based at FMC and provides each participant with an opportunity to experience a variety of internships at the medical center during the last year of school. An on-site instructor is provided by Eastland-Fairfield Career & Technical Schools and job coaching and job development services are provided by the Fairfield County Board of DD with funding by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (RSC).

LIFE Works (Leveraging Internships for Employment) is an Ohio Rehabilitation Services grant initiative. LIFE Works is a partnership between Fairfield DD, four other Central Ohio county boards of developmental disabilities, Goodwill Columbus, and The Ohio State University Nisonger Center. LIFE Works provides for paid internships, job coaching, social & work skills development, job development and transportation. LIFE Works is primarily intended for young adults who have completed their educational experience and are now ready to explore career options. Internship sites are developed based upon the expressed interests, passions, and career preferences of the individuals participating in this program. The goal of LIFE Works is successful employment outcomes in non-traditional occupations.

We Go To Work is a grant initiative funded by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities that provides for a variety of short-term paid community-based work experiences/assessments for individuals who have not yet decided if community-employment is right for them but have a desire to “try-out” a job in the community before making that decision.

The Zone: The Fairfield County Board of DD in collaboration with Ohio University – Lancaster (OU-L) and Fairfield Industries manages and provides for the food service operations at the student center on the OU-L campus referred to as “The Zone.” Individuals from the Fairfield County Board of DD who have expressed a desire to work in the food services industry may work in any number of employment opportunities provided by “The Zone.”

Project GROW (Growing Resources and Opportunities for Work): The Fairfield County Board of DD in collaboration with Ohio University -Lancaster, Allen's Lancaster Greenhouse and Nursery, and Fairfield Industries provides a unique opportunity for individuals with an interest in horticulture to work in seasonal employment opportunities at the GROW greenhouse located on the Ohio University - Lancaster campus.

Sears/K-Mart Distribution Center: The Fairfield County Board of DD, in collaboration with the Franklin County Board of DD and the Sears Holdings Corporation, provides for competitive employment opportunities at the Sears/K-Mart Distribution Center located on Hamilton Road in Groveport. Individuals working at Sears earn competitive wages, receive health insurance & retirement benefits and are eligible to become members of the bargaining unit at the distribution center.

For more information about Community Employment Services, please contact:

Customized Employment Services

The Fairfield County Board of DD recently added a new service component to its existing array of community employment service options for individuals with developmental disabilities - Customized Employment. Customized Employment means individualizing the employment relationship between employees and employers in ways that meet the needs of both. It is based on an individualized determination of the strengths, needs, and interests of the individual, and is also designed to meet the specific needs of the employer.

It may include employment developed through job carving, self-employment or entrepreneurial initiatives, or other job development or restructuring strategies that result in job responsibilities being customized and individually negotiated to fit the needs of individuals with a disability.

The customized employment approach assumes the provision of reasonable accommodations and supports necessary for the individual to perform the functions of a job that is individually negotiated and developed.

Griffin-Hammis RSC Grant: The Fairfield County Board of DD has been selected as one of six demonstration sites in Ohio for the Griffin-Hammis Microenterprise & Customized Employment project. This project is funded by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission. This project will span 14-months commencing September 1, 2010 and will lead to the development of microenterprise and customized employment outcomes for individuals served by the Fairfield County Board of DD. Griffin-Hammis Associates, LLC is an international leader in the evolution of Customized Employment, providing training and technical consultation of aspects of this approach. The Fairfield County Board of DD was chosen as one of only two county boards of DD in the state to participate in this exciting project.

For more information about Customized Employment Services, please contact:

Adult Day Supports

The Fairfield County Board of DD provides and/or funds adult day supports for individuals based upon needs, desires and preferences. Individuals may choose the services provided by the Fairfield County Board of DD at the Opportunity Center or at one of many provider agencies in Fairfield County.

Habilitation, socialization, recreation, leisure & social skills development and a variety of learning and educational opportunities are provide at the Fairfield County Board of DD Opportunity Center and at the adult day service agencies in Fairfield County . Independent living skills development and associated activities such as cooking, crafts, community outings, computer skills development are available and are based upon the interests, desires and preferences of each individual.

Nursing services, counseling services, speech therapy services, occupational therapy services, physical therapy services and music therapy services are provided at the Opportunity Center operated by the Fairfield County Board of DD.

Community-based leisure, recreational and social opportunities are provided by the Fairfield County Special Olympics program, Aktion Club, First Chapter Book Clubs and many special events and activities sponsored by the Fairfield County Board of DD and by provider agencies in our community.

Seniors/Retirement Programs are available for individuals who no longer wish to work or to only work occasionally. Services and group activities are offered based upon the interests of individuals who are generally of retirement age. Community trips are scheduled throughout the week which includes visits to area parks, shopping malls, restaurants, museums and other points of interests.

Individuals are welcome to participate in activities on a full-time or part-time basis. All individuals are encouraged to try work which is available at Fairfield Industries or at one of many employment sites available in the community.

A listing of all provider agencies in Fairfield County and a description of the specific services available at each agency is available by contacting the Fairfield County Board of DD.

For more information on Adult Day Supports, please contact:

Art & Clay on Main

Art and Clay on Main, an affiliate of the Fairfield County Board of DD, is located in the heart of downtown Lancaster. Art & Clay on Main is a community art studio & gallery. Art & Clay’s retail space features stained glass, pottery, drawings, photographs, jewelry, dried flower arrangements and other beautiful works of arts by artists from all over the Central Ohio arts community which includes Blue Shoe Arts.

Classes in pottery, clay and ceramics are offered year-round. Special events and activities for families and children are scheduled each month and space is available at Art & Clay for rental for meetings and parties.

Art and Clay on Main also serves as a business and arts incubator for any individual wishing to develop their interest, passion, and talents in the arts and retail into an income producing business opportunity.

For additional information, please visit the Art & Clay website at www.artandclayonmain.com, or contact:

Blue Shoe Arts

Art and Clay on Main is the home of the nationally recognized Blue Shoe Arts studio. Blue Shoe Arts provides an opportunity for individuals served by the Fairfield County Board of DD who have expressed an interest and passion in the arts with the opportunity to express themselves through art and to develop artistic skills and talents that will enable them to create works of art that are marketable and will generate income for the artists.

For additional information about Blue Shoe Arts, please visit the website at www.blueshoearts.org, or contact:

Department of Educational Services

Fairfield DD's Educational Services encompasses those developmental and educational supports for individuals with developmental disabilities from birth through age 22. These services are provided both at our primary facility at Forest Rose School in Lancaster as well as in the family's home thorugh our Early Intervention (Birth to 3), Preschool, and School age programs.

Please read below to learn more.

Early Intervention

Early Intervention in Fairfield County is a collaborative system of services provided to families of children birth to age 3 who have developmental delays or disabilities. The Early Intervention Program at Fairfield DD provides services designed to support parents and care providers with the kind of competence and confidence they need to give their children many opportunities for learning.

Eligibility for Fairfield DD’s services is established through an evaluation from the Fairfield County Help Me Grow Program. Children birth to age three are considered eligible for Fairfield DD supports and services if there is documented evidence of developmental delay from the Help Me Grow evaluation team, or there is documented evidence of a physical or mental condition that has a high probability of resulting in a delay or disability from the child’s physician. Children ages 0 through 2 years must have their eligibility re-determined at age 3 for continued services. Contact Fairfield County Help Me Grow at 740.681.4881, explain your concerns for your child’s development, and ask for a visit by a Service Coordinator.

Help Me Grow Service Coordinators meet regularly with parents to aid them in determining what their concerns and priorities are for their child and family. They work together with families to develop an Individualized Family Service Plan. Child and family outcomes and strategies are “family centered” and are intended to fit naturally into a family’s existing daily schedule. The Early Intervention Program will offer developmental stimulation and/or therapy in the area(s) of delay, as identified in their Individualized Family Service Plan. Services are provided by an Early Intervention Specialist, an Occupational Therapist, a Physical Therapist, or a Speech Therapist.

Parents and care providers are the most important “interventionists” in an infant or toddlers life! To support this philosophy, the family’s Service Coordinator will work to integrate information from all professionals on the team so that parents and providers are comfortable and confident in the specific things they can do to enhance their child’s growth and development. This important aspect of Early Intervention is based on scientific evidence that very young children learn best in their natural environments and during the kind of activities that can be practiced daily and consistently. Early Intervention services from Fairfield DD can take place in a variety of locations including the family home, child care center, the babysitter’s home, or other agreed-upon community sites, based on family needs.

Preschool

Description
The Forest Rose Preschool provides free and appropriate educational opportunities and services to preschool children with special needs. Tuition paying preschool students who are typically developing are also enrolled in the program as social and communication models and to encourage inclusion and understanding of persons with disabilities. The preschool program is in session four days per week, Monday through Thursday, from 9:00am – 3:00pm and two additional Fridays per month. The Fridays not in session allow staff time for home visits and consultation with daycare providers.

Eligibility
Children between three and five years of age who reside in Fairfield County and have a documented disability in two or more areas of development are eligible for the program. The Forest Rose Preschool program is one of the placement options on a continuum of services for preschoolers in Fairfield County.

Services
The preschool offers a curriculum (AEPs) based on developmentally appropriate practices with the Early Learning Content Standards embedded. Areas of focus are sensorimotor, communication, social-emotional, cognitive, self-help, and pre-academic readiness. The children are provided many opportunities for self-expression through creative activities. Related services offered through our program that may be specified on a child’s I.E.P. (Individualized Education Program) are: Occupational Therapy, Physical Therapy, Speech Therapy, Adapted Physical Education and Transportation. All teachers and teacher assistants are certified and licensed by the Ohio Department of Education. The Board currently has three preschool classrooms in operation with 12 children enrolled in each. (8 with IEPs and 4 typically developing peers.) One classroom is highly structured with visual supports based on the TEACHH methodology for children on the Autism spectrum. There are no peers enrolled in this class.

We also house three classrooms of a county collaborative called Learning Steps Preschool operated by the Educational Service Center of Fairfield County. Sometimes the building is referred to as the Early Childhood Center due to the multiple agencies providing services in this building.

Intake
If you suspect that your child has delays with their development, you must contact your local school district to request an evaluation.

Fairfield County Schools (Amanda Clearcreek, Bloom Carroll, Fairfield Union, Liberty Union, Pickerington, Walnut Township): 740.653.3193
Berne Union Local School District: 740.746.9811
Lancaster City Schools: 740.687.7360
Canal Winchester Local School District 614.837.4533
Southwest Licking Local School District: 740.927.3941

Referrals may be made by parents, physicians or others who are knowledgeable about your child’s present levels of functioning. Most districts screen children first before obtaining the parent’s permission for a full multi-factored assessment. Evaluations and services are provided at no cost to families. Once eligibility for services is established, our program may be considered as a placement if it is the setting which would best meet the child’s needs.

If you move into the county and your child already has an active IEP, you may request that our program be considered for placement when you first call your local school district to enroll.

Contact
For information, consultation and tours please contact:
Jodi Blais, Director of Educational Services
Fairfield County Board of DD
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
740.652-7225
e-mail

School Age

Description
Forest Rose School provides a free and appropriate educational program for students from 6-21 years of age with Multiple Disabilities or Autism. It is a fully chartered public school, and we are proud of the positive relationships we have with the local school districts in Fairfield County.

Eligibility
Placement at Forest Rose School is determined by the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP) team, consisting of the parents, local school district staff and a representative of Forest Rose School.

Services
Along with a curriculum (UNIQUE) based on functional academics and the Content Standards, special instruction is given in practical skills for living in the community and home as well as training in vocational skills. Forest Rose School promotes the understanding of sensory integration difficulties and offers a Snoezelen environment for students and access to a therapeutic pool. Our team of highly skilled professionals includes:

• Highly qualified Special Education Instructors
• Adaptive Physical Education Instructor
• Behavior Support Specialist
• Nurses
• Occupational Therapist
• Physical Therapist
• Speech- Language Pathologists
• Resource Room Instructor
• Transition/Life Skills Coordinator
• Music Therapist

We have four classrooms: Primary, Intermediate, Junior and Senior.

Contact
For information, consultation and tours please contact:
Jodi Blais, Director of Educational Services
Fairfield County Board of DD
1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
740.652-7225
e-mail

Department of Quality

Primary responsibilities of the Department of Quality are:

Establishment and implementation of a system of monitoring for quality assurance, outcomes, and satisfaction of individuals, their families, and personal advocates with services and supports provided.
Establishment and implementation of a system of monitoring provider compliance with policy, procedure and contract requirements of Fairfield DD and the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities.
Assisting in the maintaining of a pool of qualified providers to provide services and supports in Fairfield County.
Responsible for coordinating the development of the agency’s Comprehensive Long-Range Plan and annual Quality Improvement Plan, including tracking of and reporting on the status of achievement of goals and objectives, and making recommendations for changes in the plans based upon data.
Facilitating and advising internal quality improvement teams in the development and implementation of systems/process changes
Assisting in the development and implementation of systems and agency policy and procedures for the identification, collection, and analysis of management data; collection and summarization of organizational data.
Assisting the organization in the preparation for CARF Accreditation, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities accreditation, and other accreditation processes.
Assisting other agency programs in the monitoring of their services.
Obtaining feedback from stakeholders utilizing a variety of tools including surveys, focus groups, and other means.
Monitoring for and remediation of Major Unusual Incidents including cases of abuse, neglect, or exploitation of individuals with developmental disabilities in cooperation with the Mideast Ohio Regional Council (MEORC), pursuant to sections 5123.61 and 5126.30 of the Ohio Revised Code.

Locations - Contact Us

Our locations, contact information and the services offered at each location are below.

Community and Administrative Services Building

795 College Avenue
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7220 - Phone
(740) 687-7250 - Fax

Administration
Services and Support Coordination
Quality Department
Fiscal Services
Human Resources
Community Outreach

Forest Rose School

1592 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 652-7225 - Phone
(740) 681-5731 - Fax

Educational Services Department
Preschool & School Age Services
Early Intervention
Transportation
Maintenance

Opportunity Center & Fairfield Industries

4465 Coonpath Road NW
Carroll, Ohio 43112
(740) 652-7230 - Phone
(740) 756-7857 - Fax

Adult Service Options
Employment Services
Habilitation Services
Senior Services
Special Olympics

Pickerington Regional Office

11050 Tussing Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 861-0535 - Phone
(614) 861-0715 - Fax

Individual Support Coordination
Community Employment Services
Early Intervention

Northwest Center

820 Refugee Road
Pickerington, Ohio 43147
(614) 856-1630 - Phone
(614) 856-1697 - Fax

Adult Day Supports

The ZONE at Ohio University-Lancaster

1570 Granville Pike
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 653-5110 - Phone

Food and Beverage Service for OU-L Students and Staff
Community Employment Services

Art & Clay on Main

150 West Main Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
(740) 653-1755 - Phone

Arts and Business Incubator
Retail art gallery, art classes and community events
Blue Shoe Arts Studio