The Logan County Board of Developmental Disabilities celebrated 2019 accomplishments, local providers and another year of exceptional services during their annual Holiday Dinner Thursday evening.
Nearly 300 individuals, along with their families and providers gathered at the First Church of God in Bellefontaine for a meal and short program.
Longtime volunteers Don and Connie Oswald were presented with a “Lifetime Achievement” Award. The Russells Point couple has devoted more than 30 years of volunteering to the Logan County Board of DD and individuals with developmental disabilities.
“They are the definition of generosity and they truly deserve this award,” LCBDD Superintendent Saul Bauer said. “And on top of all that, they are celebrating their 50th wedding anniversary this year.”
Earlier this fall, the Oswalds were presented with the Volunteers of the Year Award from Special Olympics Ohio for their many years of coaching and transporting Special Olympics athletes.
Bauer also touched on more highlights from the year including the agency’s three-year accreditation from the Ohio Department of DD with zero citations, the Discovery Center’s Five-Star Step Up to Quality certification award and the opening of the first fully accessible playground in Logan County at Mary Rutan Park.
Before guests left for the evening, the superintendent asked every provider of services in the room to stand and be recognized.
“Yes, you are paid, but not according to your value…You have heard your calling and you have witnessed the beauty and fulfillment of being of service.”
As a Christmas gesture, providers were each gifted a $250 Logan County Chamber Choice certificate.