 The federal benchmark for the time from when an individual
with a disability applies for services to when they are given an eligibility
decision is a maximum of sixty days. In
2011, that process took an average of 129 days at OOD. As an agency, however,
we made the decision to commit to not just meeting the national benchmark but to
exceeding it, and set a goal of 30 days.
Since 2011 this metric has trended downward, and was below
60 days in February 2014. The current
thirty-day average (32) and current year-to-date average (37) for application
to eligibility decisions are both approaching this ambitious goal of 30 days
from application to eligibility.
We are excited about the progress we have made over the last
four years in moving from twice the national requirement to nearly half that
time. We remain committed to continuing to work towards successfully meeting
our goal. Making decisions in a timely
manner makes a real impact on those we serve as it means access to services and
ultimately quality employment and independence.
 Studetns and Volunteers enjoy YLF
This year’s Youth Leadership Forum (YLF) wrapped up last night
at the Embassy Suites Hotel (Airport) here in Columbus. YLF, a five-day leadership training program
for 11th and 12th grade high school students with disabilities, is designed to
develop the next generation of community leaders. Forty-five students attended the event, with
support from OOD, the Ohio Department of Mental Health and Addiction Services (MHAS),
and the Governor’s Council on People with Disabilities (GCPD).
YLF attendees learn about a variety of topics: choosing a
career, the history of disability as a culture, the latest technology and
resources available, and strategies for self and systems advocacy. At YLF students are introduced to
professionals with disabilities and have the opportunity to develop their own
“Personal Leadership Plan” to be used to reach goals in education, employment
and in their local community.
The annual event also features a tour of The Ohio Statehouse
and a discussion of public policy and advocacy with state legislators. This year State Senator David Burke (R.,
Marysville) and State Representative Ryan Smith (R-Bidwell) offered their perspective
on the legislative process and effective advocacy, and answered questions from
the students.
I look and look, I
see nothing but love.
These wonderful
people respect me, and love me for who I am!
There’s so much love
in these hallways, it makes my heart so warm.
I don’t know how they
do it, but their love got to me!
I’ve seen so many
hugs and friendships.
Now these nice people
here are my friends too!
It has allowed me to
have inspiration within myself!
It has allowed me to
find peace within myself too.
Happiness is as rich
as rich can get.
Who needs money when
talking to my new friends is worth every cent!
The staff was so nice
to me, they welcomed me in!
They are here because
they love us, they volunteer!
My eyes are wide
open.
I finally know what love is!
I can’t help but to
tear up, I never seen real love like this.
So many big hearts
that match with mine!
They show you that they care, their hearts aren’t
confined!
YLF has changed me;
It has turned me into an even more lovable person then what I am!
I love you all!
Stay
loving my friends!
Antonio Hysell, a junior who attends the Hearing Impaired
Program at Upper Arlington High School through the Educational Service Center
of Central Ohio, wrote and performed the above poem at YLF.
Individuals in Job Ready Status* Statewide: 3,877
(For larger map and county details please click here)
 *Job Ready Status: Have received Vocational Rehabilitation
services and are ready and seeking employment.
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