NEW BREMEN, Ohio (WLIO) — A nonprofit organization is stepping in to support people with developmental disabilities and their caregivers by improving accessibility at local events.
Cousins Youth Outdoor Development donated a new tent to the Auglaize County Board of Developmental Disabilities to be used alongside the board’s universal changing table. The addition is designed to provide privacy and flexibility for caregivers assisting individuals with disabilities in outdoor settings.
The group, which typically focuses on youth outdoor sports and conservation efforts, learned of the need after being approached by a caretaker during a fishing event where the board was participating. The caretaker explained the importance of having a tent to accompany the mobile changing table, prompting the organization to take action.
“The tent turned out amazing. It's fantastic. It just out of our wheelhouse a little bit. Typically, we're focused more on hunting and fishing and but this is an opportunity for us to give back to the community. And, you know, just it's the right thing to do,” says John Mack, Pres., Cousins Youth Outdoor Development.
Officials say the new tent will allow the universal changing table to be used at more events, helping expand access for families.
Officials say the new tent will allow the universal changing table to be used at more events, helping expand access for families.
“This is an amazing way for us to take the universal changing table that we have and get it out into the community, it will impact over 300 kids each year at the Grand Lake fishing derby, as well as countless people who come to community festivals, any outdoor spaces where people with disabilities can go knowing that their needs can be met. They don't have to leave early, they don't have to be hesitant about even going to the event. So it really helps with community inclusion and giving everyone that opportunity to be a part of their community,” says Renee Kohler, Superintendent, Auglaize County Board of DD.
The Auglaize County Board of DD loans the Universal Changing Table, with the tent if it is needed. You can call Gabe Coil – 419-977-2318 or email gcoil@auglaizedd.org to acquire about it.
