Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities

This week marked the beginning of Ohio Deaf History Month (March 13-April 15). ?? We're taking time to honor the rich heritage and contributions of the Deaf and hard of hearing community in our state by sharing resources to help you explore the history, culture, and language of this vibrant community. The State Library Of Ohio proudly partners with the Ohio School for the Deaf to expand access to Deafness and interpreting-related resources. With a collection of over 400 items available through the State Library's online catalog and a diverse selection of eBooks and videos, there's something available for everyone. Learning about Deaf culture and history, or even learning ASL is as easy as checking out State Library materials! And if you're looking for more resources, the Ohio Digital Library's collection of eBooks and videos includes fiction and non-fiction for both children and adults, covering many aspects of Deaf culture and ASL including language, history, education, and instruction. Ohio Deaf History Month fun facts: ? Ohio officially recognized the observance period for Deaf History Month in 2017. ? The observance period (March 13-April 15) was chosen because these dates include important moments in Deaf history, like the founding of Gallaudet University in 1864. That's the first college for Deaf students. ? In the early 1900s, Akron had the largest Deaf community in the U.S., with many individuals working in the rubber industry. These are just some examples of the fascinating things you can learn about Ohio's Deaf community through the State Library of Ohio and the Ohio Digital Library! ?? #OhioDeafHistoryMonth #DeafHistory #ASL

In the State of the State Address earlier this week, Governor Mike DeWine highlighted OOD’s impactful work in helping adults and students with disabilities find, keep, and advance their careers. We are honored to have the combined efforts of our participants, staff, providers, and partners recognized as part of the vision for a stronger, more accessible Ohio. "Our state agency - Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities - serves Ohioans with disabilities and helps them get and keep jobs. Since the start of our Administration, we have helped almost 32,000 Ohioans with disabilities to reach their goal of employment."?-Governor Mike DeWine ?If you have a disability and want to work, we can help! Visit OODWorks.com to get started today. #StateOfTheState #OhioTheHeartOfItAll #AccessibleOhio?

In honor of Cerebral Palsy Awareness Month this March, we want to hear from you! Let's come together to learn more about CP, support individuals affected, and spread awareness. We'll be posting a poll later this morning to get you started. Be sure to vote!

Find yourself searching for employment opportunities as an Ohioan with a disability? At OOD, we offer personalized support to help you take the next right step – whether that’s finding your first job, advancing in your current job, or exploring new careers.??? ??? ???Visit OODWorks.com to get started today.? ????? #OODWorks???

Last week, Ohio Lt. Governor Jim Tressel, OOD Director Kevin L. Miller, and Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Director Kim Hauck visited LifeTown Columbus, a simulated town that serves children with special needs. LifeTown?was created to help students develop crucial life skills in a safe and nurturing space. Teachers customize each student's?LifeTown?lesson to meet their specific needs, as outlined in the student’s Individualized Education Program (IEP). Learn more about this special day in the most recent edition of the OOD Works newsletter.????lnks.gd/2/2zw29q-

An easy and simple way to show respect when interacting with someone who is blind or has low vision is always to introduce yourself and your presence when you arrive, and let them know when you’re leaving. Communicating clearly helps create a more comfortable environment for everyone in the conversation. Let us know if you knew this tip before today, and share any related tips and thoughts you have below!??? #DisabilityEtiquetteTips #TipTuesday

Born with cerebral palsy, Amelia Whorton has made it her mission to break down barriers, not just in her personal life but also in the world of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). With OOD’s help, she’s navigating her path to success while paving the way for others with disabilities. “OOD wants to make sure each person becomes the most successful version of themselves,” Amelia explains. Through OOD services, Amelia has been assisted with daily living, and thanks to OhioC2C (Ohio College2Careers), she has received tuition support, adaptive computer technology and training, and internship and employment-seeking services. Amelia has a master’s degree in neuroscience and physiology, and she is currently working toward a PhD in biomedical sciences. Her research focuses on preventing burnout by identifying when tasks should be offloaded or paused. Her goal is to use machine learning and artificial intelligence to revolutionize prosthetics to adapt to an individual’s unique movements, reducing the need for frequent adjustments or replacements. Great work, Amelia!??? Read Amelia’s full journey in our newsletter now:????lnks.gd/2/2zqzX7z And subscribe to our newsletter today for more success stories in the future.????bit.ly/3CpFchb? ? #OODWorks

This is your friendly reminder that Daylight Saving Time begins today! Be sure to set your manual clocks forward by one hour to stay on track for your work week. This small task will ensure a productive start to your Monday morning. ? #DaylightSavingTime #SpringForward

Today is International Women’s Day! We proudly recognize the remarkable women on our Executive Team. Their expertise, passion, and dedication to our participants and advancing accessible opportunities in Ohio are at the core of our mission. We’re thankful every day for their leadership. #InternationalWomensDay #WomenInLeadership