BCBDD News
Belmont DD Board Unveils New Inclusive Playground
ST. CLAIRSVILLE – A partnership in Belmont County has resulted in the creation of a new inclusive playground for children of all abilities.
The new play area, located at the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities at 68421 Hammond Road in St. Clairsville, was made possible through a collaboration between the County Board of Developmental Disabilities, the Alternative Residences Two Board, and the Belmont County Community Action Commission, with additional funding provided by the American Rescue Plan Act.
The new playground is one part of the County Board’s commitment to universal design that ensures accessibility for all people.
“Because of our partners, there is now a place where every child, regardless of ability, can come together to play, laugh, and grow,” said Gloria Llewellyn, CEO/Superintendent of the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
The new playground features a communication board for children who do not use words to talk, as well as features that allow children with physical disabilities to play alongside their peers.
The playground was designed, and equipment provided, by GameTime.
“This is more than just a playground - it’s a place of connection, inclusion, and joy,” Llewellyn added.
This accessible playground is the latest addition to the resources offered at the DD Board. Each week it serves dozens of children and families enrolled in Early Intervention, the public schools, and agencies that also serve people with differing abilities.
Partners and other special guests came together to unveil the new inclusive playground at the ribbon cutting on May 13, 2025. From left: BCBDD Board member Joel Braido; Commissioner Jerry Echemann; GameTime Project Manager Taylor Kolanko; AR Two Board members Deedra Balgo, Ray Anderson, and Lynn Donda; CAC Head Start Director Fran Steed; DD Board Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn; Commissioner JP Dutton; and Gwen Simeral, CAC Community Engagement Manager.
Head Start kiddoes helped Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn officially open the new inclusive playground at the Belmont County Board of DD on May 13, 2025. Children of all abilities can now swing, slide, and soar together!
Books on Acceptance Donated to Local Libraries
A collection of children’s books encouraging acceptance of people with differing abilities have been donated to every school and community library by the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Titles include Just Ask by Sonia Sotomayor; All the Way to the Top by Annette Bay Pimentel; and You are Enough, by Margaret O’Hair. Another book, I Am Not a Label, introduces young readers to 34 artists, athletes, and activists living with disabilities.
The goal of this donation is to help children understand disability, practice kindness, and learn how to interact respectfully with people who are different from them.
“Young children are naturally eager to learn and more open to accepting classmates with developmental differences when they understand what those differences are,” said Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn. “These books do that while also highlighting the many ways we are alike, too.”
Barnesville Library book donation made by Tommie Lindell to Director Brandi Little.
Martins Ferry donation made by Erin Schramm to Children’s Librarian Anessa Keifer and Director Anthony Orsini.
St. Clairsville Library book donation made by Ann Swisk to Public Services Coordinator Emily Kessler.
Belmont Disabilities Board Receives Highest Award
The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities has once more been accredited by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities for the quality supports it provides. A comprehensive review was done by DODD, which resulted in a three-year accreditation, the highest award given. Seated are board members John Rataiczak, vice-president; Bob Quirk, president; and Shawn McKeen, secretary. Standing: Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn and board members Barbara Pomaranski, Annette Wiater, and Joel Braido. Not pictured is Barbara Schramm.
ST. CLAIRSVILLE – A three-year accreditation, the highest possible award, has been given to the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
A nine-member team from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities completed a comprehensive on-site review in October that yielded the result. The areas reviewed were service and support, health and safety, incident reporting, and the Board’s effectiveness.
The accreditation review included interviews with people with developmental disabilities and their families.
Belmont DD Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn credited the award to the team’s emphasis on providing a positive customer experience.
“Over the past few years, we’ve made changes in how we connect with people,” Llewellyn said. “We want people to live their best lives and it’s extremely important that we have relationships with each one in order for that to happen.”
The reviewers noted the Board’s commitment to doing what is right for people.
The review report stated that the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is resourceful and accesses grants and other sources to help people served.
“You are doing great things with your resources and do creative things to support people with disabilities,” said Katie Willi, lead reviewer for the Ohio Department of DD.
The Board’s support of providers and other community partners was also recognized.
“You set the tone for services delivered in the county and it’s clearly positive,” Willi added.
The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities serves over 700 eligible people, coordinating and funding supports like early intervention (birth to three), school-age assistance, transition from school to work (ages 14 to 22), job-related skill development, employment, residential, respite and transportation.
Its seven-member board of directors is led by Robert Quirk, president, John Rataiczak, vice-president, and Shawn McKeen, secretary. Others serving on the Board are Joel Braido, Barbara Pomaranski, Barbara Schramm, and Annette Wiater. To learn more, log onto www.bcbdd.org.
TRANSITION FAIR COMES TO BELMONT IN OCTOBER
ST. CLAIRSVILLE – A first-of-its-kind event designed to help high school students with disabilities learn more about job opportunities after graduation is coming to Belmont County this fall.
Belmont Road Map for Transition will be held Tuesday, October 8, 2024, at the ECO Center in St. Clairsville from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. It will draw attention to jobs and resources while connecting young people to potential employers.
The event is sponsored by the Belmont Multi-Agency Planning Group (MAP) that includes Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), the East Central Ohio ESC, and the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
“Planning is key to a successful transition from high school to employment for students with differing abilities,” said Belmont DD Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn. “The transition fair will connect teens to potential employers and the employers will benefit by tapping into a capable workforce.”
Over 30 businesses and agencies have committed to being present at the Belmont Road Map to Transition Fair where they will share information, answer questions, and talk about jobs.
Hundreds of students from Belmont County school districts and the Belmont-Harrison Career Center are expected and will be given the opportunity to explore jobs in virtual reality and take part in real life job demonstrations.
The ECO Center is a fully accessible venue located at 68332 Bannock Road, St. Clairsville, OH. For more information contact Joe Ford @joseph.ford@ood.ohio.gov
Belmont Road Map For Transition is a collaboration between Sean Ragsdale and Joe Ford of OOD; Melanie Cronebach and Jeremy Vittek of the ECOESC; Gloria Llewellyn and Angela Dunn of the Belmont Developmental Disabilities Board; Lydia Brodegard of State Support Team 12; Suzie Dupke, Goodwill Industries; Elizabeth Wietmarschen of OCALI; and Cheryl Supanik from the Belmont-Harrison Career Centers.
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Becky Robey Receives 2024
Brad McFadden Award
Becky Robey received a Brad McFadden Outstanding Educator Award at the Exceptional Student Awards dinner held May 9, 2024, at the Belmont Career Center.
The Brad McFadden Award is given annually to a person engaged in excellent service to students with disabilities. Dr. Angela Hicks, ECOESC Curriculum Coordinator, a close friend of Brad McFadden, introduced this year’s award.
Becky started her career as a teacher’s assistant in a classroom at the School of Hope over 40 years ago and is ending it as a Transition Assistant when she retires at the end of this school year.
Melanie Cronebach, ESC Executive Director of Student Services, introduced Becky in the following manner:
While there are always reasons why someone chooses to work with children with disabilities, for Becky Robey it was personal. She chose this career because of the short life of a child born into her family over 40 years ago.
Baby Raymond was born with a developmental disability into her nephew’s family. He lived only nine months, but the impact of that short life made a difference through Becky’s lengthy career working with children of differing abilities.
After Raymond died, Becky felt a call to help children with disabilities. She decided to become a classroom assistant and earned that degree. On September 1, 1985, she became an instructor assistant at the School of Hope. From that start in a classroom of five children with intensive needs, Becky learned the importance of “going with the flow” and she has. For 39 years she has served preschoolers, school-age students and, most recently, teens fourteen and older.
Becky is flexible and unafraid of change or a challenge. In 2021, she took a leap of faith and joined Katie Fischerkeller as the intervention specialist assistant for the Skill Building to Transition program. In this role, she helps students build skills through targeted activities focused on everyday life, social and employment skills. Becky is on the move picking up students at their local school and connecting them with various employers in our local community. She genuinely cares and wants what is best for each teen. In fact, she pours her heart into every student. Becky loves unconditionally and will do anything for anyone.
Becky’s long and successful career leaves an indelible mark on the lives of countless students. Her commitment to supporting both educators and learners alike is admirable, and her wealth of experience has been invaluable to the educational community.
Little Raymond touched Becky’s heart and set her feet on a path of dedicated service that impacted hundreds of children. Becky, thank you for caring and thank you for sharing your love with the children and all of us.
NEW SUPERINTENDENT NAMED
Transitional Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn has been tabbed by the Belmont, Harrison, and Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities as its new Superintendent following the retirement of Steve Williams.
A proven leader with 30 years of experience in the developmental disabilities’ field, Gloria was hired as Director of Operations for the BHN Alliance in 2017, became the Assistant Superintendent in 2020, and was named Transitional Superintendent in 2023.
The BHN Alliance shares 10 administrative functions including Superintendent, SSA, Early Intervention, and Human Resources.
Before coming to the county boards, Gloria served for five years as Executive Director for ResCare, Inc., a leading provider of home and community-based services for people with disabilities.
Her career in the DD field began when she answered an ad to support a young girl with down syndrome while she was still a student at The Pennsylvania State University. The mother had recently died, and the father needed help rearing three small children.
“The father put so much faith into me and others to care for and support his children while he worked, often on overnight trips,” Gloria said. “I really enjoyed the family dynamics and realized early on that I was a member of their family.”
After earning her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Penn State, Gloria left the field for nine months, but returned.
“I really liked the closeness that comes from helping connect people to what they need and want and forming relationships,” Gloria said.
She went on to obtain a Master of Education degree from Youngstown State and held various positions at ResCare, including behavior specialist, before becoming Executive Director.
Gloria said that effective leadership involves challenging people to think differently and be open to the possibility of change.
“I want the people we support to receive fantastic services and employees to thrive, while ensuring that the long-term objectives of the county boards are met,” she said.
Gloria said that the BHN Alliance is strong because of past leadership, the current team, and the kind, supportive volunteer boards.
“I am still humbly processing the honor to serve as Superintendent,” Gloria said adding, “I am in a place to listen so I can learn from others - the people and families we support, employees, provider partners and community partners – so together we can form a true plan for sustainability and positive change.”
Gloria credits her own circle of support for her success.
“I could not do what I do without the support of my husband, Donnie, sons, parents, sister and brother-in-law, the Llewellyn clan and friends, Gloria said. “They wrap me with love every day.”
Gloria Llewellyn Receives Outstanding Educator Award
St. Clairsville, OH – Gloria Llewellyn, Assistant Superintendent for the BHN Alliance (Belmont-Harrison-Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities) received the Brad McFadden Outstanding Educator Award at the 2023 Belmont County Exceptional Student Awards event on May 11, 2023.
The Brad McFadden Award recognizes a person who has made a notable contribution to special education in Belmont County. The honoree is voted upon by members of the Belmont County Special Education Advisory Council.
In her role at the County Board Gloria works with the public schools, supporting parents,
teachers, administrators and students in a variety of ways.
Gloria Llewellyn (right), Assistant Superintendent of the BHN Alliance, received the 2023 Brad McFadden Outstanding Educator Award from the Belmont County Special Education Advisory Council. Nancy Weeks, Preschool Coordinator for the East Central Ohio ESC, presented the award to her at the annual Exceptional Student Awards dinner held at the Belmont Career Center on May 11, 2023.
The complete text of the McFadden Award presentation to Gloria follows:
“The 2023 recipient of the Brad McFadden Outstanding Educator Award is a person who makes things happen. From her start as a home-based Program Worker to Executive Director of an $18 million residential provider, Gloria Llewellyn puts her heart, mind and soul into serving people.
Today, as Assistant Superintendent of the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, Gloria has built a reputation as a dependable partner with school districts when there is a need to make learning easier or the environment more accommodating for students with developmental differences.
This Steubenville native began her life of service working as a direct support professional while studying for her bachelor’s degree in psychology at Penn State.
Subsequent employment included directing residential sites for people with disabilities and providing therapeutic counseling and psychotherapy to adults and children in a variety of settings. She became a skilled behaviorist who developed compassionate ways to address the challenges people face.
In 2003, Gloria added a Master of Education degree to her resume’. In 2011, she became Executive Director for ResCare, where she led all functions in southeast Ohio for the multi-million-dollar provider. She left that position in 2017 when she accepted an employment offer from the county board. She was a perfect fit from the start. Gloria understood the board’s mission and goals while bringing a fresh perspective to the table. Her business acumen, compassion and discernment benefit the organization, and she provides clear, motivating and constructive feedback to those she leads.
A strong advocate for people with developmental differences, she approaches every challenge as an opportunity to improve someone’s life and build or strengthen relationships. She is willing to take on hard problems by choice and, on occasion, has made what seems impossible possible. Her balanced approach and ability to bring people together means her advice and support are sought by parents and educators alike.
Humble. Caring. Driven. Smart. Gloria Llewellyn is all of these, and one more: she is excellent – in all she thinks, says and does.
The Late Adam Nicholoff Honored with Brad McFadden Award
St. Clairsville, OH – The late Adam “Nick” Nicholoff received the Brad McFadden Outstanding Educator Award at the 2022 Belmont County Exceptional Student Awards event, held at the Belmont Career Center on May 12, 2022.
The award was accepted by his wife, Sandy Nicholoff, and youngest son, Nicholas.
The Brad McFadden Award recognizes a person who has made a notable contribution to special education in Belmont County. Nick was the Director of Transition for the Belmont-Harrison-Noble County Board of Developmental Disabilities at the time of his death on February 15, 2022. In the 13 years he was with the County Board, Nick worked with students, families, educators and administrators, supporting their efforts to help children with disabilities reach their full potential.
Nick is also survived by his eldest son, Sam; his mother, Julia Nicholoff; and three siblings.
The complete text of the McFadden Award presentation follows.
“Adam Nicholoff was the Director of Transition for the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, but that is just a title. He was, in truth, a teacher, counselor, confidante and friend to those who knew him.
Nick spent the majority of his life in service to people and his personal philosophy emerged as a result. Nick understood the value of connection and the tremendous impact it has personally and professionally.
Nick believed in the One Hundred/Zero principle. Simply put, it means taking full responsibility for relationships, expecting nothing in return. This isn’t natural for most of us, but it was for Nick. He understood the paradox, in that when one takes authentic responsibility for a relationship, more often than not others choose to take responsibility as well.
And Nick gave one hundred percent in all he did.
Eager for new experiences as a young man, he joined the Army not long after graduating from New Jersey’s Glassboro State College. After leaving the military, Nick joined the Peace Corps where he taught school in Central America.
Nick was an educator in every sense of the word and his trainings were thoughtful, engaging, and fun. When he joined the County Board team in 2009, he emerged as a leader of their Trauma-Informed Care initiative, taking it into schools and agencies across Belmont County. He could reach the heart of every person in the room – child advocates, foster parents, direct support professionals, teachers, and even prison guards.
Nick believed every child deserved the chance to discover their potential and that the systems supporting them had an obligation to help them do just that. Educators, administrators, and parents often reached out to him. He listened carefully and then offered guidance, encouraging parents and teachers to step out of their comfort zones and see the possibilities in their child or student.
Even in the face of unimaginable health challenges, Nick continued to support and encourage others despite his own pain – he was present and he was always positive.
Intelligent, strong, honest, supportive and kind are all words to describe this New Jersey native, who adopted the Ohio Valley as his home because it was where the love of his life – Sandy – was from, and where they chose to rear their two sons, Sam and Nicholas.
There is an enormous void where he once stood, but he leaves a legacy of compassion and connection in which there is a common thread: Nick loved and inspired people.”
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Belmont CBDD Earns Three-Year Accreditation Award
ST. CLAIRSVILLE – A three-year accreditation award, the highest possible term, has been given to the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities for the work it does to support people with disabilities.
A team from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities completed a comprehensive review this fall that included interviews with people served and families whose supports are provided, coordinated or funded by the County Board.
Belmont Superintendent Stephen Williams credited the Board’s focus on relationships as the key to its success.
“Relationships are what matter in life and we focus on building them with the people we support and our partners who provide their services,” Williams said. “We get to know each person and put our efforts into helping people live a great life.”
All areas of the County Board were reviewed, including personnel, service and support, health and safety, incident reporting and how effective the Board is.
The Belmont County Board of DD serves over 600 people, coordinating and/or funding supports like early intervention (birth to three), school-age assistance, transition from school to work (ages 14 to 22), job-related skill development, employment, residential, respite and transportation.
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Public Input Sought
The Belmont County Board of DD is seeking citizen input regarding how it uses IDEA and Special Education Part B funds for school-age children with developmental disabilities. This funding source provides for specialized services and is administered by the Ohio Department of Education. Public comment may be made by contacting Assistant Superintendent Gloria Llewellyn in writing at the Belmont County Board of DD, 68421 Hammond Road, St. Clairsville, OH 43950, or by calling 740-695-0460, ext. 315, weekdays 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Belmont Board Awards Partnership Grant
Jennifer Diehl, TEAM Consulting’s in-house artist, accepts a $25,000 Partnership Grant check from Belmont CBDD Superintendent Stephen Williams for Creating HOPE Arts & T Shirts, a new project that will provide additional opportunities for adults with disabilities.
The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is pleased to award a $25,000 Partnership Grant to TEAM Consulting for a new project that will provide opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities to develop their talents.
The grant will be used for the artistic expression, display and sale of artwork and t-shirts through Creating HOPE Arts and T Shirts (CHATS). This new project, a collaboration between TEAM and local artists, is an expansion of what it currently offers.
“We want to break down barriers to allow for everyone to be part of art and create unity in our community,” said Karen Fisher, CEO of TEAM Consulting.
The grant will fund various projects where people of all abilities can express themselves and join the arts community through the exhibit and sale of their creations. CHATS will develop kits so people can participate in virtual and community-based artistic expression.
A Tee Shirt press, purchased through a memorial contribution from the family of the late Tom Cook, will be used to print original designs. All art will be sold via the website, www.creatinghopearts.com
Jennifer Diehl, CHATS in-house artist, said she is excited for how this grant will expand the current art program.
The Belmont County Board created its Partnership Grants program as a way to support its partners as they create, locate or enhance opportunities in the community for people with disabilities.
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BELMONT-HARRISON-NOBLE
COUNTY BOARDS OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
The Community SSA: A New Way of Supporting People
The BHN Alliance has become known for its out of the box thinking and strong belief that the least intrusive path is the most beneficial to bettering the lives of those with disabilities. One of the ways this shows is through the newly created Community SSA position.
Tracy Johnston, who serves in the role, works with people who meet eligibility requirements, but are living relatively independent lives in the community.
“We help people maintain the independence that they love and need without interfering in their lives,” Tracy said.
Tracy does this by acting as a liaison between the person and his or her respective life plans. That can mean coordinating a ride back and forth from work to finding someone a new place to live. Whether it is reaching out to other agencies or contacting community organizations, Tracy is there to support those who just need direction, a helping hand, and a bit of perspective.
Community SSA Tracy Johnston (right) is a friend that Junior can rely on to help him get the things he wants out of life.
Her work is a crucial part of the BHN Alliance vision and is the next step in the evolution of a more integrated and cutting-edge service delivery system across Belmont, Harrison, and Noble counties.
“This Community Support model emerged after we realized that many people just need a little assistance in getting what they want out of life,” said BHN Alliance Superintendent Stephen Williams. “We connect them with community resources without enrolling them in specific services they don’t want or need.”
Tracy sees herself as more than just another support to those eligible for services.
“My favorite part of the job is helping people understand that I am their friend and will help whenever they need. Whether it be just to talk or to help them connect to resources, I am there without being overly intrusive.”
And that’s what Tracy does each and every day.
A Message from the Superintendent
A Message from the Superintendent
Click on image to enlarge
Planning Guide for Ohio's Schools & Districts
EI Team Leader Receives OACB Award
Lori Wells, the Early Intervention Team Leader for the BHN Alliance, has received the Five-Star Customer Experience Award from the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities.
The Five-Star Customer Experience Award recognizes a county board employee who goes above and beyond in supporting people served by their county board. Wells received the award at the 36th Annual OACB Convention on December 5, 2019 at Columbus.
Wells, who is the Early Intervention Team Leader for the BHN Alliance (Belmont-Harrison-Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities), is described as someone who has an acute understanding of what families need and goes above and beyond in service to them.
According to Holly Weatherson, EI Contract Manager for the BHN Alliance, Wells is “masterful” at supporting families, always willing to provide what they need, well beyond normal business hours. One of those needs is met through her credential as a Certified Infant Massage Therapist, a skill that can console babies dealing with the trauma of Neonatal Abstinence Syndrome.
“Lori has defined what it means to provide specialized instruction to families whose infants and toddlers have disabilities or developmental delays,” Weatherson said. “She can relate to families and their challenges and is, in truth, their ally.”
As the EI Team Leader, Wells mentors and supports an entire team of developmental specialists and speech and language, occupational and physical therapists serving over 100 families with evidence-based early intervention supports.
Early Intervention is a statewide system that provides coordinated services to parents of infants and toddlers (ages birth to three) with disabilities or developmental delays in Ohio. To make a referral, call 1-800-755-4769.
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Photo courtesy OACB
Commissioners Honor State Champions
The Belmont Eagles Flag Football Team was recognized by the Belmont County Commissioners at their December 11th meeting for claiming the Special Olympics Ohio Division III State Championship. Issuing a Proclamation in honor of the team were Commissioners Josh Meyer, JP Dutton and Jerry Echemann, who are pictured with Coach Victoria Powell and team members Lance Marino, Pat Jobb and Harry Porter.
County Board Mourns Marlin Harper
The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities is mourning the passing of its former president and long-time board member, Marlin Harper, who passed away suddenly on October 3, 2019.
Marlin was appointed to the Board in 2003, filling the unexpired term of Richard Heagin. Marlin went on to promote dignity and respect for people of all abilities for the next 14 years on the board. After his tenure ended, Marlin continued to show his support, founding the Rotary Club Fishing Tournament in Barnesville. Marlin had a heart for people of all abilities. He will be missed.
Marlin J. Harper, 70, of Barnesville died Thursday, October 3, 2019 at Wheeling Hospital. Marlin was born in Barnesville on July 9, 1949 to the late Jay S. Harper and Maxine E. (Thornberry) Harper-Ellison.
Marlin was a 1967 graduate of Barnesville High School, graduate of Ohio University and earned his Juris Doctor degree from Ohio State University Moritz College of Law. Marlin practiced law in St. Clairsville after graduating law school where he became partner. He then went on to open his own practice in Barnesville. He was a member and past president of the Barnesville Rotary, past Exalted Ruler of BPOE 1699, member of the Ohio Bar Association, Belmont County Bar Association, Village Solicitor for Barnesville, past Village Solicitor for Bethesda, and member of the Belmont Hills Country Club. He enjoyed traveling with his friends and family and playing golf. Marlin was extremely active with the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities.
In addition to his parents, he was preceded in death by his step-father, Galen Ellison; and longtime companion, Norma Kolar.
Marlin is survived by his cousins: Bob (Robin) Harper, Jon Jay (Tina) Harper, Becky (Bob) Selmon, Terri (Randy) Williams and Mike Thornberry; two grandsons: Stephen Markos and Evan Markos; Norma's children: Christi (Craig) Markos and Jim (Jill) Kolar; and many friends and cousins.
Visitation will be held on Tuesday, October 8, 2019 from 4-8pm at Campbell-Plumly-Milburn Funeral Home, 319 N. Chestnut St., Barnesville, Ohio with an Elks service at 7:45. The service will be held on Wednesday, October 9, 2019 at 11am with Ev. Kim McFarland officiating. Burial will follow in Crestview Cemetery.
Memorial contributions may be made in Marlin's name to the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities., 68421 Hammond Rd., St. Clairsville, Ohio.
Special wish granted for a special boy
T-L Photo/ROBERT A. DEFRANK Rachel Johnson with son Grayson at St. Mary’s Community Center Tuesday as they visit the St. Clairsville Rotary Club.
By ROBERT A. DEFRANK
Times Leader Staff Writer
ST. CLAIRSVILLE — The generosity of area residents and businesses is helping grant a wish to a brave little boy.
Four-year-old Grayson Johnson of Freeport was at the St. Mary’s community center Tuesday with mother, Rachel, and older brother, Joseph. His father, Ken Johnson, was at work. The St. Clairsville Rotary Club made a donation to A Special Wish foundation to send the Johnson family to a beach vacation at Edisto Island in South Carolina Aug. 4 – 10. It will be Grayson’s first visit to the beach and his first vacation.
Rachel Johnson said the beach visit would be a welcome opportunity to rest and meet far-flung family members.
“He recently had open-heart surgery, four weeks ago,” she said. “He was granted a special wish and we chose to do a beach vacation. … We have family that live in South Carolina. We thought it’d be nice to visit family and relax as a family. … Just to be together as a family and rest and enjoy the serenity at the beach.”
Rachel Johnson said her son has been undergoing major surgery since his first six months of life. She said that Grayson was born with Down syndrome and three congenital heart defects, two holes in his heart, and other heart issues. Grayson was also born with Hirschprung disease, which affects the bowel.
“When he was born, he had 75 percent of his large intestine removed,” she said.
She said Grayson’s surgeries and other treatments took place at the Cleveland Clinic, meaning a great deal of travel and expense.
“Our lives are always so busy. Doctor’s appointments and the kids are busy and active,” she said.
“Since Grayson’s been born, we haven’t had the opportunity to have babysitters or people to watch him. My husband and I don’t get a lot of opportunities go go out together we haven’t had a vacation since Grayson was born. We’ve not been able to afford one or be able to go somewhere and just have help with him.”
“He’s very active,” she said. “Besides the medical expenses, he requires a lot of care. It’s more work than it is fun to go do stuff, so this special wish that’s being granted is a huge blessing. … An opportunity to be together and celebrate him getting past all this stuff.”
She said they will also visit Splash Zone, a water park on the island.
Rachel Johnson said they were referred to A Special Wish by Travis ‘the Terror’ Clark of St. Clairsville. The professional boxer has been working with Grayson on physical therapy and he has also helped A Special Wish in prior projects.
“We got close to Travis, and Travis really took a liking to Grayson. He called me one day after a Saturday session of personal training and let us know he wanted to nominate Grayson for a wish,” she said. “We’ve definitely been in contact with a few other families who have children going through similar surgeries and similar struggles, and that helps as a parent, knowing that someone else is going through the same thing and they understand.”
“I want to thank the Rotary Club and the Special Wish foundation. I think it’s incredible that people help and are so giving to strangers,” she said. “Hopefully we’ll be able to pass it forward to another family in the future.”
Alicia Freeman, executive director of A Special Wish, said one of her goals is to help their mission by establishing connections to the community.
“We’re grateful that Travis referred the family to us,” Freeman said. “Travis thought Grayson would be a perfect candidate for a wish and it worked out, and we’re very grateful and blessed that the St. Clairsville Rotary Club could donate and help sponsor this special wish for Grayson.”
Freeman said while the rotary club was the primary donor, some additional funding for the wish was still needed.
“I feel confident we will be able to fulfill the entire wish before they leave,” she said.
Freeman said the Rotary Club’s fundraising activities have benefited many in the community.
“We were very grateful we were on the club’s fundraising list,” she said. “They put a lot of work into raising those funds to donate back into the community.”
Doug McMullin, president of the St. Clairsville Rotary Club, said it was not his organization’s policy to release share the precise amount donated, but added they hold yearly fundraisers with the goal of making donations to worthy causes.
“Throughout the year we raise approximately $70,000 which we then just distribute throughout the community and internationally as well. We became aware of (A Special Wish) and it met all of our giving principles,” he said. “We were happy to help this family out…A Special Wish is the perfect candidate for us as a club to help. We’re able to give to them directly, they’re able to benefit from that directly, and I hope we’re able to do this again.”
Freeman also commended A Special Wish’s corporate partners, Belmont Savings Bank, Hoagy’s Heroes charity riders, Home Savings Bank, Harvey Goodman Realty.
“They are just wonderful to us,” she said.
“If anyone knows a child or a family that could use a wish, please reach out to use. We would love to help as many families as we can in the Ohio Valley,” she said.
For more information, to donate or to refer a child or family, call 740-449-2063 or visit www.spwishov.org.
Advocates Visit with State Rep
A number of self-advocates from Belmont County visited with State Rep. Don Jones (R-95th District) when they attended DD Awareness and Advocacy Day on March 5, 2019 in Columbus. These members of People First Belmont County Chapter discussed several issues with their legislator, including the need for more transportation options and more funding in the state budget for Direct Support Professionals,
who help people with daily living. Pictured with the legislator, from left: Pat Jobb of Martins Ferry, Greg Hocking, Fairview; Rep. Jones; Tommie Lindell of Barnesville, and Mary Lou Kent, advisor of People First.
Belmont DD Board Receives Three-Year Accreditation
The Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities has been accredited by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities for the quality of services provided to county residents.
A six-member team from the state department completed a comprehensive review in November that included interviews with individuals and families who receive supports. A three-year accreditation was earned, the maximum possible term.
Superintendent Stephen Williams credited the successful review to the way the Board views what it does.
“Relationships are the foundation of quality supports and that is our focus in everything we do,” Williams said. “We recognize the uniqueness of every person and family served and that means we are better able to help them get what they want out of life.”
The Board coordinates supports for more than 500 eligible children and adults with developmental disabilities. Supports include early intervention (birth to age three), school-age assistance, transition from school to work (ages 14 to 22), job-related training and employment, residential, transportation, and respite.
BHN Superintendent Receives Leadership Award
Stephen L. Williams, Superintendent of the Belmont, Harrison and Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities, has received the 2018 Kenneth Legats Visionary Leadership Award from the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities.
The award is presented annually to an executive who, over a career of more than 20 years, has shown high ideals, vision, and moral leadership in the administration of services for people with developmental disabilities.
Williams received the award at the OACB 35th annual convention in Columbus on November 30, 2018.
“I am humbled and grateful to be recognized in this way, but awards aren’t individual in nature,” Williams said. “I have a great team that strives to provide the best possible service to the people we support.”
In the nomination, Williams was described as “a thoughtful and passionate leader who is focused on building teams, enhancing relationships and ensuring success for the future. Through his humor, calm and focus, he brings out the best of those around him and always leads with an eye on the future and long-term success.”
Williams began his career with the Belmont County Board of DD in 1988 as a case manager, working in various leadership positions through the years until being named Superintendent of the Belmont, Harrison and Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (BHN Alliance) in 2012. He is the only superintendent in Ohio who serves as superintendent of three county boards of developmental disabilities.
BELMONT-HARRISON-NOBLE
COUNTY BOARDS OF DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES
County Boards of DD Mark 50 Years of Support
The Ohio Legislature created a unique and vital resource for people with developmental disabilities in 1967 and that resource continues to be a lifelong support 50 years later.
Always There 50 YearsOhio’s County Boards of Developmental Disabilities are celebrating their 50th Anniversary in 2017. The year-long theme - Always There - reflects the continuity of support, promotion of opportunity and history of partnership county boards have offered to the people they serve throughout the past, in the present and in the future.
Throughout the next year, the Belmont, Harrison and Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (BHN Alliance) will be sharing stories of what people are achieving in their community.
“Our goal with any effort like this is to build awareness and understanding around what people with disabilities are achieving and how we are there to support their efforts,” said BHN Alliance Superintendent Stephen Williams.
County Boards are responsible for the coordination and funding of quality supports and services people need and this can begin at birth and continue throughout a person’s entire life. Supports funded or provided by the county boards include early intervention for infants and toddlers with developmental delays; transition services to help young adults successfully move from school to work; job-related skill training and employment for adults; and personal growth, residential and transportation services.
Williams noted that some people have intensive needs requiring constant care while others are more independent, living, working and contributing to their community with minimal supports from the County Board.
“We believe in the inherent right of all people to make their own decisions about what they want out of life,” Williams said. “Our mission then is to be there as a support as they seek what matters the most to them.”
The BHN Alliance is a partnership between the three county boards that share a person-centered approach to identifying, coordinating and delivering supports to more than 700 eligible children and adults in Belmont, Harrison and Noble counties.
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Wellness initiative kicks off this fall
The Wellness Fund is a reimbursement grant designed to support the wellness goals of people with disabilities across Belmont, Harrison and Noble counties.
The fund operates as a grant. People choose what they would like to do, sign up and pay for the activity and then submit receipts/paid invoices to the County Board for reimbursement. It’s that simple.
The Wellness Fund provides reimbursement for activities like:
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Fitness facilities / gyms / pools
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Weight loss programs [Weight Watchers, Jenny Craig, etc.]
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Healthy Cooking Classes
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Smoking cessation programs
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Registration fees for healthy walks/runs
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Fitness classes like yoga, Zumba and others
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Community team activities like softball, Pickleball, etc.
“The people we support are interested in healthy living and the Wellness Fund will provide a means for them to get active by joining community-based health and fitness activities,” said BHN Alliance Superintendent Stephen Williams.
If you are a person served by the Belmont, Harrison or Noble County Boards of Developmental Disabilities and would like to learn more, contact the Service and Support Department at 740-695-7433.