 Cameron Smith’s journey with Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) began in high school when he was referred to the agency with a severe vision disability. He was paired up with OOD Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Michele Edge. His main objective was to gain the independence that driving would offer. “Cameron was always motivated and knew exactly what he needed,” says Michele. “I knew from the start he would advocate for himself and find his job. He’s incredibly driven and intelligent.”
In 2017, Cameron began working with OOD to secure assistive technology devices, including bioptic lenses, that enabled him to maximize the use of his remaining sight to obtain his driver’s license and drive safely. The price of these lenses posed a barrier, but OOD helped by covering the cost. Reflecting on the experience, Cameron says, “They made it easier for me to get the bioptic driving glasses, and that played a huge part.”
Cameron returned to OOD in 2022 for nighttime lenses after completing the bioptic driving program and driving safely for a year, which is required by law.
“Cameron was able to work through every step of the process to gain the independence he wanted,” Michele says. “He worked hard to get the lenses and kept driving forward.”
Cameron’s drive extended to his academic career as well. In 2023, he earned his degree in biology from the University of Alabama while working at the local Lowe’s Home Improvement store during summer breaks throughout college.
Following in his father’s footsteps, Cameron now works as a microbiologist at Tremco CPG Inc., a construction company in Northeast Ohio. He enjoys his work conducting synthetic biology in a biochemical lab. “I like the challenges and the complexity of what I do,” Cameron shares. “Seeing a successful procedure after all the hard work is rewarding.”
Cameron’s mom, Kelly, has been a key source of support throughout the entire journey. “The services OOD provided were a lifesaver for us. Cam is independent now,” she says with pride. “He has his own apartment and works full-time. I’m so proud of everything he’s accomplished.”
When asked what he’d want others to know about his experience, Cameron emphasizes, “My family has supported me immensely. And OOD’s assistance helped me gain my independence and freedom.”
If you or someone you know has a disability and would like to work, visit OODWorks.com or call 800-282-4536.
 Ohio continues to make strides in supporting individuals with disabilities, highlighted by Ohio Governor Mike DeWine's Executive Order establishing Ohio as a Disability Inclusion State and a Model Employer of Individuals with Disabilities. Our mission is clear: to ensure all Ohioans have the resources, training, and opportunities to thrive. In the past year, more than 42,000 Ohioans with disabilities benefited from Vocational Rehabilitation services, marking a 14.8% increase, with more than 21,000 of those being young people.
Our efforts have positioned Ohio among the top states for serving youth under 16, with remarkable outcomes—including a 73.8% success rate in measurable skill gains toward earning credentials. Additionally, the Accessible Ohio program has achieved significant milestones, establishing more than 250 partnerships and supporting numerous accessibility enhancements statewide.
We invite you to read the OOD Annual Report for Federal Fiscal Year 2024 and State Fiscal Year 2025 to learn more about our achievements and ongoing commitment to empowering individuals with disabilities. Your support and engagement are crucial to our mission—together, we can continue to make Ohio inclusive for all!
 Kevin L. Miller
OOD Director
 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.
 When we attend a live show, explore a museum, or watch a film, much of the story is told without words—through facial expressions, silent scenes, artwork, or visual information. For individuals who are blind, have low vision, or prefer auditory input, audio description can make those experiences fully accessible.
From performances and videos to art exhibits and conferences, audio descriptions provide verbal translations of visual content, enabling richer, more disability-inclusive engagement for everyone. Whether it's a standard description woven into natural pauses, extended narration for more detailed context, or a guided verbal tour of an exhibit—these tools help bridge the visual gap.
Visit the Accessible Ohio audio descriptions resource page to learn more about the types of audio description, how and when to use them, and tips for creating effective narratives, and make your content speak to all.
Explore our comprehensive library of Accessible Ohio resources to begin or enhance your accessibility journey.
Governor DeWine Celebrates the Opening of Three New Rest Areas in Belmont and Washington Counties
Office of Ohio Governor Mike DeWine, 8-5-25
“I Feel Very Special”: Ohio's Adaptive Baseball League Includes More Than 300 Athletes
Spectrum News, 8-5-25
Mercer DD & Mercer County Fair Partner to Bring Back 3rd Annual “Share the Ring Showmanship”
Hometown Stations, 8-4-25
Disability Inclusion has Come Along with Passage of ADA 35 Years Ago
Journal-News, 8-2-25
Summer Work Provides Hands-on Experience
Locking County Board of Developmental Disabilities, 8-1-25
Fair’s Fine Arts Adds Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities Categories
Daily Advocate, 8-1-25
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