Meet Kinshuk Tella, a remarkable college graduate from Miami University who has embraced his passion for science. “I want to be part of something bigger than myself, which is the environmental issues we face, in particular climate change,” Kinshuk explains.
Kinshuk is on track to complete his graduate studies in December 2023 and will receive a Master of Environmental Science degree from Miami University. This summer Kinshuk has been interning in Washington, D.C. where he has focused on national climate and air quality programs.
When he's not busy with academics and working toward his career, Kinshuk has been active in community building, blind advocacy, and student empowerment. Through his advocacy work, Kinshuk has motivated others to embrace their unique strengths while strengthening his own confidence.
Kinshuk shares his journey in OOD Works Podcast episode 48. Tune in wherever you listen to podcasts by searching "OOD Works." Transcripts and MP3 files are available at ood.ohio.gov/podcast.
 Up to $7,000 per person is available to Ohioans with disabilities for college, training, and credentialing programs for the 2023 fall term.
The OOD Education Support Funds help students with disabilities in their pursuit of continued education. OOD will provide all eligible college and non-traditional students with disabilities up to $7,000, while participating in OOD services, to be used for tuition or educational expenses during the upcoming fall term. This includes students with disabilities participating in colleges, apprenticeships, trade schools, and credentialing programs.
“Higher education and a successful future should be available for all students,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “By supporting college and non-traditional students with disabilities through services from OOD and its partners, they are given a greater opportunity of success as they transition from education and training to in-demand careers.”
“OOD is dedicated to empowering Ohioans with disabilities through employment and independence,” said OOD Director Miller. “As part of this commitment, the OOD Education Support Funds ease financial barriers while providing individualized career guidance, technology, tools, resources, and connection to a large network of employer partners.”
Students with disabilities (e.g., physical, learning, mental health, sensory, hearing, vision, and more) can qualify for the OOD Education Support Funds through the following steps:
- Apply for OOD services online at OODWorks.com
- OOD staff will call the applicant and schedule an in-person or virtual appointment
- Complete the required paperwork to finalize the application
- OOD staff will determine eligibility and help plan the next steps
OOD vocational rehabilitation counselors assist students with disabilities with career exploration and counseling, assistive technology, resume and interview preparation, and job placement. OOD’s business relations team connects college students with disabilities to internship and permanent employment opportunities.
The OOD Education Support Funds build on a range of services to help students with disabilities prepare for post-secondary education and employment. From helping younger students explore job interests to supporting students in their first work experiences, support through Ohio College2Careers and more, OOD helps Ohioans with disabilities transition into fulfilling careers.
 If you or somebody you know has a disability and would like to work, reach out to OOD today. Vocational Rehabilitation Counselors can help you explore your options. Visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536 to get started.
 Wednesday, August 23, 2023
10 a.m. - 11 a.m.
OOD is pleased to host a webinar titled, "Building and Leveraging Employee Resource Groups." This webinar focuses on steps an employer can take to plan for and build a disability-focused employee resource group (ERG) and the benefits an active ERG brings to the workplace. This webinar is moderated by OOD Business Relations Specialists, Cynthia L. Crews and Julie Lasher, and joined by guest speakers from Fifth Third Bank, GE Aerospace, The Kroger Company, and Nationwide Children’s Hospital.
We are hosting this webinar through a new platform – Microsoft Teams Webinar. This platform will allow attendees to engage more directly with the presenters and participate in other interaction features. Microsoft Teams Webinar requires pre-registration to attend. To register, please visit the registration site and complete a brief registration form. Once you have completed the registration form, you will receive an email that includes the link to join the event and add it to your calendar.
OOD is committed to providing access and reasonable accommodation in its services, activities, and programs in accordance with the Americans with Disabilities Act and other applicable laws. To request an accommodation based on a disability, please contact us no later than August 16, 2023.
The webinar has been approved for 1.00 HR (General) re-certification credit hour toward aPHR™, aPHRi™, PHR®, PHRca®, SPHR®, GPHR®, PHRi™, and SPHRi™ re-certification through HR Certification Institute® (HRCI®) and 1.00 SHRM Professional Development Credit (PDC) hour toward SHRM-CP® or SHRM-SCP®. While this training is not pre-approved for CESP Continuing Education (CE) credit, it aligns with CESP content, and verification of attendance will be provided upon request. These credits are available for attendees of the live broadcast.
 American Sign Language interpretation at the Marvelous Mutts show (left) and the Great Lakes Timber (Lumberjack) show (right).
The recent Ohio State Fair was an exceptional celebration of inclusivity and accessibility, as it opened its gates to Ohioans with disabilities.
OOD was proud to support 2023 Ohio State Fair accessibility and inclusion efforts. Fairgoers enjoyed continued accessibility enhancements: wheelchair/mobility device charging stations, technology to connect people who are blind or have low vision to an agent who can help with navigation, accessible picnic tables, service animal relief areas, a dedicated sensory-friendly morning, quiet room, and an accessible playground.
New in 2023 for fairgoers whose preferred method of communication is American Sign Language (ASL), interpretation was provided at the Fair’s opening ceremony, the Sale of Champions Livestock Auction, daily at the Natural Resources Park Great Lakes Timber (lumberjack) shows and the Marvelous Mutts shows at The Dog House, and for all paid ticketed concerts in the WCOL Celeste Center. A total of 74 free shows or events included ASL.
 Derek Svec communicates with OOD Director Kevin Miller at the 2023 Ohio State Fair.
Derek Svec, a carpenter with the Ohio Expo Center, explained the value of offering ASL. He explained, “As someone in the Deaf community, I’m really excited to have this kind of access. There’s a lot we miss out on, and it’s great to have the ASL option.”
Also new in 2023, thanks to a partnership with the Montgomery County Board of Development Disabilities, the Fair offered a universal adjustable-height changing table in a large private restroom in the Ag Pro Companies Taft Coliseum.
As the fairgrounds buzzed with laughter and excitement from Ohioans of all abilities, it was evident that creating an inclusive space enriches our community, strengthens bonds, and paves the way for a more inclusive future.
Accessible Ohio, a new initiative at OOD, supports Ohio’s businesses, communities, attractions, and venues (like the Ohio State Fair) in becoming more accessible and inclusive for individuals with disabilities.
Specialists consult directly with local partners to help identify barriers and establish goals for accessibility and provide information about potential funding resources. To learn more, visit the Accessible Ohio webpage.
 Tom Babinszki and his guide dog Baldwin.
Tom Babinszki is the creator of Even Grounds, a blog dedicated to inclusive and accessible travel for blind people. Hailing from Cleveland, Tom has 25 years of experience working in the accessibility field and currently operates a travel consulting business focused on accessibility. Check out his site for valuable insights, practical tips, and personal experiences to help travelers who are blind navigate their adventures smoothly and independently, as well as to assist businesses who want to make their products and services accessible.
How CVG Passengers with Hidden Disabilities Can Get Help in Subtle Way
WKRC, 8-10-23
Having a Disability is Just Part of Living Life in New Netflix Animated Series “Mech Cadets”
Forbes, 8-10-23
A Boy on the Autism Spectrum Struggled with a Haircut - His Barber Saved the Day
National Public Radio, 8-9-23
Ahead of Crucial CPUC Vote, Waymo, Disability Advocates Argue “Transformative Impact” of Autonomous Vehicle Tech
Forbes, 8-9-23
Boot Earns Ms. Wheelchair Ohio Title During Event at Grand Hotel
Mount Vernon News, 8-9-23
Ohio State Fair Celebrates Record-Breaking Successes Post-Fair Metrics Released
Crawford County Now, 8-8-23
Stark County's First Smart Home Opens Its Doors
Canton Repository, 8-7-23
Prevent Blindness Ohio Focusing on Healthy Vision, Early Access to Eye Care for Back-to-School Season
Mahoning Matters, 8-7-23
Barbie's Wheelchair Has NJ activists Discussing the Reality of Life on Wheels
NorthJeresy.com, 8-7-23
See the World Just Like Anybody Else: Disability, Chronic Disease Not Keeping Older Travelers from Taking Off
WTOP News, 8-7-23
Golfers with Disabilities Compete in Ohio Championship
WJW, 8-6-23
Eagles Introduce New Initiative That Will Employ Adults with Autism and Disabilities at Lincoln Financial Field
Eagles Wire, 8-6-23
Ohio Meals on Wheels Volunteer Receives Award After Learning American Sign Language for Meal Recipient
Fox News, 8-5-23
A Brief but Spectacular Take on Blending the Worlds of Art, ASL, and Accessibility
PBS News Hour, 8-2-23
|
