Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities were provided with an in-depth look at a local agency provider, Friends of Leroy Brown, during their recent board meeting.
Aspen King and Elizabeth Sassi, along with clients Janessa and Holly discussed the opportunities participants have when they attend Friends of Leroy Brown day program.
They also brought a furry friend named Matrix.
This program allows people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to utilize animals to help connect with other people, including visiting local nursing homes with their furry companions.
They also plan special activities all throughout the year such as trips to The Wilds in Cumberland, Newport Aquarium in Newport, Ky., and Goat County LLC at The Greene.
On days not spent in the community, the focus shifts to obedience training the dogs who are also certified as Canine Good Citizens (CGC). They also shared an example of a 3-D printing project that was recently created.
Superintendent Krista Oldiges reviewed one contract and three polices with the board. The Villages of Huntsville and Rushsylvania have reached out to the board about the possibility of donations to help make their parks more accessible.
Several families affected by the recent tornado who receive services from the board have been assisted with temporary housing, space heaters, housing repairs and food, the superintendent noted.
Several building maintenance issues have been addressed over the past month including repairs to the HVAC for the gym, as well as a new coat of paint on the gym walls at the Discovery Center.
The Early Intervention Department recently hosted their first Tiny Tunes class March 19. The next class will be April 23. Heather Barns, Developmental Specialist, is currently working towards becoming a Certified PLAY (Play and Language for Autistic Youngsters) Project Consultant.
The Easter Bunny visited LCBDD’s preschool, the Discovery Center, in March. The preschoolers also participated in an Easter Egg Hunt. Two open houses at the preschool were conducted in March. Several families enrolled their preschoolers for the 2024–2025 school year.
The Discovery Center is currently accepting enrollments for all students for the 2024-2025 school year. Contact (937) 592-2009 for more information.
The LCBDD accepted the resignations of Cindy Holloway, assistant cook, and Kayla Gauze, preschool instructor. Holloway is retiring after 20 years working for the board.
Oldiges also provided updates with community involvement and Special Olympics. The track and field team have started practices for the season.
The Aktion Club has assisted in the clean up efforts at Indian Lake and also made donations to those in need. They are also planning a Spring Dance.
Board staff attended the Logan County Career Expo. Several people were interested in more information about becoming a provider and volunteering.
A Community Basketball Game between the Logan County Braves and local celebrities has been rescheduled for 5:30 p.m. Thursday, April 25, at Bellefontaine Middle School. Donations will be accepted at the door.
There will be concessions and a 50/50 raffle. Proceeds will go to making Logan County playgrounds accessible to all.
The next Community Center Blood Drive is May 23 at the board offices located at 1851 W. State Route 47, Bellefontaine.
Board meetings are typically conducted the first Thursday of each month at 5:30 p.m. at 1973 W. State Route 47, Bellefontaine. The next meeting is 5:30 p.m. May 2, at 5:30 p.m.
For further information on services, contact (937) 592-0015.
Discovery Center preschoolers enjoy a visit with the Easter Bunny during March. (LCBDD PHOTO) ‘
A youngster enjoys the first Tiny Tunes class hosted by the Board of DD’s Early Intervention Department during March. The next class is April 23. (LCBDD )