Community is more than just a group of individuals living in the same area; it's about coming together, supporting one another, and working towards common goals. Whether it's through attending events, volunteering your time, or contributing your unique talents and ideas, your involvement is invaluable.
I want to extend an invitation to each and every one of you to actively engage and participate in our vibrant community. It's through our collective efforts that we can truly make a difference and create a positive impact.
Let's continue to build upon the strong foundation of our community by actively participating, supporting one another, and making our voices heard. Together, we can achieve great things.
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Vibrant Community Connection |
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Collaboration with BalletMet |
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Collaboration can bring about amazing opportunities and one example is happening this summer. BalletMet, Fairfield County District Library, and Fairfield DD came together to facilitate children's dance classes hosted in Lancaster.
Soar on Saturdays is a dance access program created in partnership with The King Arts Complex and Ballet Met. The program gives young students the opportunity to discover movement during a free 6-week dance class. Elle Pierman, Director of Education at BalletMet, is passionate about teaching all types of learners. The classes are adapted to each dancer's unique learning style and need.
After learning about the class in Columbus, staff at Fairfield DD began discussions about how to bring the initiative to Lancaster. To ensure any child at any ability level could participate, the team decided a local community organization would be best to host the dance course. The Fairfield DD team connected Elle and her team with the Fairfield County District Library, which took charge of the arrangements. With the library offering space and marketing assistance, and BalletMet managing registration, the class quickly reached its maximum capacity! This six-week hip-hop class will culminate in a final performance, perfectly timed for ArtWalk!
LaQuesha Wiley, an ISC, said that she is "very excited that this opportunity will be free to the community and someone skilled with a big heart like Elle will be able to help the children we get to serve and as well as all the kids in the area.”
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David Thornton's journey is a testament to resilience and personal growth. When Fairfield DD staff first met him in 2017, his life was marked by frequent hospitalizations and struggles with uncomfortable interactions with others. However, fast forward to today, and David's story is one of remarkable transformation.
David has made tremendous strides in his health. Gone are the days of frequent incidents and hospital stays; instead, David now thrives, being more independent in our community.
David's success stems from both his dedication and his team's unwavering support. Regular meetings, ongoing education, and genuine encouragement have fostered his growth. The team's positive influence has significantly boosted his well-being, instilling a deep sense of belonging and empowerment.
It is evident that David is not just a recipient of support but an active participant in his success. From developing relationships within his community to securing contracts for lawn work, David is paving his path toward a brighter future. It's a testament to the power of resilience, teamwork, and the unwavering spirit of individuals like David who refuse to be defined by their past.
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Community Partnership Corner |
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Embracing Progress for Positive Change |
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Amidst the peaceful scenery and lively neighborhoods of Fairfield County, a fundamental change is taking place. This change is driven by collaboration, innovation, and a strong investment in empowering others to reach their potential and become more independent. Fairfield DD is partnering with many across the state of Ohio, to create opportunities that completely reshape the way we care for and support people with developmental disabilities.
Several of Fairfield DD’s Executive Leadership Team, including David Uhl, David Baum, Kyle Miller and Cindy Hillberry, are involved at the state level in bringing about these changes. From presenting best practices in human resources at the Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB) conference to serving on state committees, staff are strong advocates for the mission and vision of Fairfield DD.
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Benefits of Early Intervention |
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The most recent installment of Fulfilling Lives features information on the benefits of Early Intervention (EI) with Jenna Trager, Supervisor of EI and Tonya Spence, Developmental Specialist.
The discussion in this episode highlights the importance of EI partnering with families to expand upon what they already do within their daily routines to nurture their child's growth and learning.
Listen today at fairfielddd.com!
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Fairfield DD Feature Department |
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Art & Clay’s Storytime is a well-loved weekly event where local leaders engage young children with storytelling, followed by a fun ceramic painting activity. Each child gets to create a unique piece to bring home after it’s fired, making it a special memento of the experience. Guest readers are invited to share about themselves – who they are, what they do in the community and even provide an interactive activity if they choose. This unique opportunity fosters community integration, inclusivity, acceptance, role modeling, awareness and advocacy.
General Manager Mitsi Clark Niceswanger, and her dedicated team, are thrilled to bring this extraordinary experience to the community. They have made efforts to source materials that are affordable for families to participate and ensuring complete accessibility for anyone who wants to attend. Additionally, they have collaborated with local businesses and community members to provide a diverse range of subjects and guest readers.
During the summer season, they have the advantage of organizing larger events outdoors. Company Wrench has graciously granted use of the Mithoff parking lot next door when needed. Watch the calendar, as some events will feature big trucks, first responders, artists, community leaders, live animals, and more!
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Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities is developing a three-year strategic plan to support our mission, services, and community. Your input is crucial during this planning period, and we will be sending out a survey in early July to gather your insights.
Please be on the lookout for this email from Krile Communications and take a few moments to share your feedback. Your participation is invaluable, and we thank you in advance for your time and effort during this process!
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3rd Annual Fishin' With Fathers
June 15, 2024 1-4pm
There will be free raffle prizes, local vendors with fun activities, and no fishing license will be required as it's Ohio free fishing for Father's Day weekend.
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Dive in Movie Night: Hotel Transylvania
June 15, 2024 7-11pm
Visit Miller Pool for a dive in movie night featuring Hotel Transylvania. This event will be fun for all ages! Cost is $5 for general admission and $2 for season pass holder.
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Juneteenth Celebration in Downtown Lancaster
June 19, 2024 11am-1pm
Join the community of Lancaster at the downtown gazebo for a Juneteenth Celebration! There will be speakers, food from D’s Dogs, and music.
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Picktown Palooza
July 11, 12, & 13, 2024
Picktown Palooza is a 3-day celebration of the Pickerington community that features fun activities and entertainment for the whole family. Enjoy carnival rides, a kids’ corner, national artists, local musicians, food vendors, a beer garden, a 5k, a car show, and more!
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