 Taylor Westfall aspired to build a fulfilling career as a Registered Veterinary Technician. Her goal was to find a job she loved, one that would lead to independence and personal growth, rather than just a daily obligation.
When Taylor first approached Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), she faced significant barriers. Her initial services with OOD ended due to some challenges with follow-through. Additionally, her self-confidence was shaken; she often felt overwhelmed and hesitant to ask questions or seek guidance. This emotional struggle was compounded by the fact that she was the first in her family to pursue higher education, lacking a support network to lean on during challenging times.
Christine Strahler, Senior Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor, provided Taylor with comprehensive support tailored to her needs. OOD assisted with tuition, uniforms, books, a stethoscope, gas cards, study materials, and a licensure exam fee. By providing these essential resources, OOD alleviated some of the pressures she faced and allowed her to focus on her education.
Reflecting on her experience, Taylor shared, "The best part of using OOD for me was the reassurance from staff regarding questions I had, the effort put into handling my case by Chris, and the change it made to my life. Without OOD, I would never have had the chance of college or a higher career field. I’m incredibly grateful for this organization."
Through her dedication and the support of OOD, Taylor transformed her life. She gained the confidence to finish her program, graduated with pride, and successfully passed her Veterinary Technician licensure exam. Today, she lives independently and works in a career she loves, having blossomed from uncertainty to empowerment.
If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.
 The 35th anniversary of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) marks a significant milestone in civil rights history. This landmark legislation, signed into law in 1990, continues to protect and empower individuals with disabilities across the United States.
To commemorate this important anniversary:
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Celebrate: Embrace #DisabilityPride by sharing your experiences and achievements on social media
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Learn: Explore the rich history and ongoing impact of the ADA through Accessible Ohio resources
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Share: Use the hashtag #ThanksToTheADA to highlight how this legislation has positively affected your life or the lives of others
In Ohio, Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jim Tressel have officially proclaimed the state's commitment to upholding the principles of the ADA, reinforcing its importance in fostering equality and accessibility.
As we reflect on the progress made since the ADA was enacted, it's essential to recognize the work that still lies ahead. Together, we can continue to advocate for disability inclusion and ensure that the rights of individuals with disabilities are upheld and celebrated.
 Don’t miss the most accessible Ohio State Fair yet! Join us for a sneak peek into what’s in store. New this year: compliments of OOD’s Accessible Ohio program, a $10 off coupon is available to use toward an electric scooter rental for individuals who have a physical or mental condition that affects their ability to navigate the fairgrounds.
Discover how OOD and the Ohio State Fair are making sure everyone can enjoy their visit to the fullest! Watch this promotional video and see how we’re creating a welcoming atmosphere for all Ohioans. For more details, be sure to read our full press release. We can't wait to see you there!
 Moments after taking the oath of office, Governor DeWine signed Executive Order 2019-03D, establishing Ohio as a Disability Inclusion State and a Model Employer of Individuals with Disabilities. To reinforce his commitment to Ohioans with disabilities, H.B. 110 included presenting the Governor's Inclusive Employer Award each year during October’s National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) to employers who meet the criteria for having a workplace inclusive of individuals with disabilities. OOD is responsible for determining the criteria for the award and promoting participation by Ohio employers. OOD will review applications and make recommendations to Governor DeWine for the selection of the Award recipient(s).
Businesses of any size are encouraged to apply for this award. OOD invites Ohio employers to complete this application to be considered for the award. More information and a PDF of the application can be found on the employer awards webpage. The deadline for submission is 11:45 p.m. on Friday, August 1, 2025. Winners will be announced in October 2025.
Watch a video requesting nominations from OOD Director Kevin L. Miller.
 The 2025 Ohio Sales Tax Holiday will take place Aug. 1-14, offering Ohioans meaningful savings during the back-to-school season.
“The timing of this year’s sales tax holiday not only supports families preparing for back-to-school, but also provides relief on other important household needs,” said Governor DeWine.
During the holiday, shoppers will be able to make qualifying purchases both in-store and online without paying state sales tax. The tax exemption does not apply to services or to purchases of motor vehicles, watercraft, outboard motors, alcohol, tobacco, vapor products, or any item containing marijuana.
For full details, including eligible items and frequently asked questions, visit the Ohio Department of Taxation’s Sales Tax Holiday page. You can also contact the Department by email or by calling 1-888-405-4039.
 Designated by the Ohio General Assembly beginning in 2016, Ohio Service Dog Awareness Week, the last week of July, recognizes service dogs that have assisted Ohio citizens with disabilities, including adults, children, and Veterans.
Service dogs are specially trained to assist individuals with disabilities, which can include various conditions such as blindness, low vision, deafness, hard of hearing, mental health disabilities, physical disabilities, seizure disorders, or diabetes. It’s important to understand that service dogs differ from emotional support dogs and therapy dogs. While service dogs are trained to perform specific tasks to help their handlers, emotional support dogs provide comfort but are not trained for specific tasks. Therapy dogs are often used in settings like hospitals and schools to provide emotional support to many individuals, but they are not typically trained to assist a specific person with a disability.
When interacting with service dogs, it's best to speak to the handler rather than the dog and keep your own dog from getting too close. It’s crucial not to touch or distract the service dog, offer food or treats, or assume that a napping dog is off duty.
For more details on service dogs, please visit the Accessible Ohio service animal resource.
Free Swim Camp Helps Ross County Kids with Disabilities Stay Safe in Water
Chillicothe Gazette, 7-22-25
See How a Blue Envelope Can Help Save a Life in a Traffic Stop
Chillicothe Gazette, 7-22-25
YMCA Enhances Accessibility with New Adult Changing Table
Sidney Daily News, 7-22-25
Columbus Working to Address ADA Issues with Sidewalk Ramps
WCMH, 7-21-25
Ashtabula Man Honored for Advocacy
Star Beacon, 7-19-25
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