LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The Allen County Board of Developmental Disabilities hosted its annual partnership luncheon, bringing together community members for a day of gratitude and fellowship.
The event recognized partners who help support individuals with developmental disabilities through services such as employment opportunities, education and community access. Officials say these collaborations play a vital role in improving quality of life and helping individuals stay connected within their communities.
Officials say these collaborations play a vital role in improving quality of life and helping individuals stay connected within their communities.
“We are recognizing partners in all areas of life today, employment, education, access to the community. So it we can't do this all on our own. We have a wonderful staff, but there are only so many of us. So it really we rely on our partners to make things happen and to help people fully enjoy their communities that they live in,” says Renee Kohler, Outgoing Superintendent, Allen County Board of DD.
Leadership for the organization will soon transition, as Melissa Ricker prepares to step into the superintendent role on April 1. Ricker says the luncheon serves as an important opportunity to show appreciation to those who support individuals and families served by the board.
“We're really hoping that our partners feel appreciated and that they know that we value them and that the individuals that we are serving together their lives are completely different because of the passion that they have and the work that they do,” says Melissa Ricker, Incoming Superintendent, Allen County Board of DD.
The Allen County Board of DD says anyone interested in supporting its mission and the individuals it serves is encouraged to contact the organization.
