Lake County Commissioners Proclaim March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a time when we make a concerted effort to raise awareness about developmental disabilities and encourage inclusion. This year, our theme ‘Opening Doors in 2024’ recognizes the progress that has been made to help individuals live fulfilling lives, such as through assistive technology, expanded employment opportunities, and pathways to independence, just to name a few.

We are honored that the Lake County Commissioners proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month at their meeting on March 7. We are also thrilled that Ian Carter attended the meeting alongside County Board representatives, his family, and his friends. He spoke about his activities and interests in demonstration of how the County Board and community supports and services have enriched his life.    

Ian graduated from the Mentor Schools Cardinal Works program where he worked at many job sites to gain work skills. He was then enrolled on a waiver through the LCBDD and we helped Ian and his family navigate Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities, access funding for non-medical transportation, and enroll in a day program to help him to socialize and foster friendships.

A key door was opened when the LCBDD’s Employment Navigation team helped advance Ian’s employment skills by introducing him to the Pathways to Careers program through our partnership with Auburn Career Center. Ian has taken several courses, including manufacturing fundamentals, automotive basics, and he is currently enrolled in the welding program. Through empowerment and Ian’s handwork and dedication, he is now employed at Habco Tools and Development where he does office tasks, such as shredding, rolling change, sorting folders, as well working on the shop floor to complete packaging and cycle counts.

In addition to his incredible work ethic and desire to learn, his dedication and involvement in Special Olympics, Special Sports, and participation in his church make Ian an all-around awesome person and an asset to the community in which he lives!

Opening one door, providing one opportunity, can change the course of someone’s life.

If you would like to watch the March 7 meeting broadcast, visit https://www.youtube.com/live/ic4K1HDx9FE?si=lFLROT7QVxXVvw_p.