This past summer, the Ohio State Fair showcased its commitment to accessibility like never before, thanks to a partnership between the Ohio State Fair and Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD). Running from July 24 to August 4, this year's Fair was not just an event; it was a celebration of Ohio and the joy of shared experiences. OOD has released a video highlighting the enhanced accessibility of the 2024 Ohio State Fair.
Through this collaboration, OOD debuted its new mobile unit to provide comprehensive accessibility information, helping every fairgoer feel supported and included. The commitment to accessibility was apparent through the unprecedented number of American Sign Language (ASL)-interpreted shows, free wheelchair and mobility device charging stations, two universal changing stations, free use of Aira to connect to a remote agent to help access visual information, audio descriptions for select exhibits, a dedicated sensory-friendly morning, and more.
The 2024 Ohio State Fair was more than just a celebration of agriculture, entertainment, and community; it was a powerful reminder that every Ohioan deserves the opportunity to experience all the Fair has to offer. With its groundbreaking accessibility initiatives, the Fair set a new standard for inclusivity, proving that when barriers are broken, everyone can join in the fun.
This summer, Aidan White, a high school student from Hilliard, participated in the OOD Summer Youth Work Experience (SYWE) program at the Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, specifically in The Barn, located in the Zoo’s North America region. Aidan's passion for the Zoo, cultivated over years as a member, led him to choose this unique opportunity where he worked closely with goats, sheep, and cows.
Aidan's enthusiasm and commitment were evident throughout his experience. He embraced increasing responsibilities, demonstrating his eagerness to learn and contribute. His hard work paid off when he was offered a part-time position in the Horticultural and Landscaping Department, a development that thrilled not only Aidan but also his family and support team. Looking ahead, he plans to leverage this role into an internship opportunity during this school year.
Elizabeth Jones, Director of Community Programs at ARC Industries, Inc., an organization that partners with OOD to provide services and support, praised the collaboration with the Columbus Zoo. She explained, “Aidan has a service dog, and the Zoo took time to get to know the dog and made all necessary accommodations so the dog could be onsite.”
Aidan shared appreciation for the support he received through OOD. He highlighted how OOD facilitated his job placement at the zoo, provided transportation, and connected him with valuable resources, including a tutor to help him prepare for his driver's license evaluation. Aidan emphasized the importance of the life skills training he received, which equipped him with essential job search techniques, interview preparation, and effective communication skills.
“Aidan has grown so much through this experience with the Columbus Zoo and has proven his ability to advocate for himself and take initiative,” said Amanda Akers, Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor. “He recently passed the test and obtained his temporary permit and is moving on to training through a driver’s rehabilitation program. I can’t wait to see what the future holds for Aidan!”
The SYWE program, offered by OOD, aims to empower students with disabilities aged 14-21 by providing them with hands-on work experiences across Ohio. This summer, over 3,000 students participated, gaining confidence and essential skills for their future careers. Each student is paired with a job coach and earns minimum wage while working in various roles tailored to their interests and abilities.
If you have a child aged 14 years or older with a disability, reach out to OOD for more information on how we can help your child with career exploration, skill development, and strategies to get a job or attend post-secondary education after graduation. Starting this fall, counselors begin talking with students and their parents about opportunities for next summer. To find out more, visit the OOD Students 14+ webpage.
OOD and the Ohio Bureau of Motor Vehicles (BMV), a division of the Ohio Department of Public Safety (ODPS), have announced a significant milestone: over 2,000 license plates have been registered in the voluntary database for individuals with communication disabilities.
This initiative allows individuals with a medically-diagnosed communication disability to voluntarily enroll in a law enforcement database. This connection ensures that officers involved in a traffic stop are informed if a driver or passenger may have communication challenges, thereby reducing the risk for misunderstandings.
“Having this information right up front is helping law enforcement officers add an additional layer of understanding in their approach to these situations, creating a smoother stop for all involved,” said Ohio Governor Mike DeWine. “Ultimately, our goal is to ensure that all people feel safe and secure while interacting with law enforcement. I encourage anyone who has a communications disability to sign up to participate.”
To enroll, individuals must obtain a verification form from a physician, psychiatrist, or psychologist to confirm their communication disability. The completed form should then be submitted to the BMV.
Kevin L. Miller, Director of OOD, shared his enthusiasm: "This has been a game changer for individuals with communication disabilities. By opting in, a communication disability is flagged for law enforcement, but exact disabilities (e.g., Deaf, hard of hearing, cerebral palsy, autism spectrum disorder) remain private.”
Charlie Norman, BMV Registrar, highlighted the value of the database: "Access to this information is an invaluable resource for Ohio law enforcement, improving communication and fostering trust, community stability, and officer safety."
For more information, including an awareness video and the verification form, visit OOD’s Communication Disability Law webpage.
Sensory-friendly experiences have become more common as more individuals are comfortable expressing their sensory needs. Everyone experiences sensory information in their own way, including people with autism, neurodivergence, post-traumatic stress disorder, post-concussion syndrome, or hearing loss. Some people may seek out more sensory input, such as sights, sounds, and smells, while others avoid or minimize exposure.
Accessible Ohio resources about Sensory-Inclusive Experiences explore ways to create enriching, inclusive experiences that benefit everyone.
Providing Sensory Tools empowers individuals with unique sensory needs to regulate sensory input, improving their ability to have meaningful experiences in shared activities and spaces.
Creating Sensory Spaces for individuals to take a break from an activity gives them a safe, judgment-free place to manage their sensory needs with sensory tools.
Hosting Sensory-Inclusive Hours and Events creates a welcoming environment with sensory-focused practices that cultivate a sense of inclusion and belonging.
Everyone’s experience is unique and important. Use our Accessible Ohio resources to begin or advance your journey to accessibility.
Sauder Village Partners with Fulton DD to Install Universal Changing Table
The Crescent-News, 9-26-24
Defiance DD Joins Effort to Observe National Disability Employment Awareness Month
The Crescent-News, 9-26-24
SDBDD Update: Recognizing the Work of DSPs
Sidney Daily News, 9-24-24
Registrations Top 2,000 for “Communication Challenge” Registrations at BMV
Spectrum News, 9-24-24
Group Hosts Softball Game for Those with Developmental Disabilities
WYTV, 9-20-24
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