Empowering Change: Join the Ohio Association of County Boards to Advocate for Developmental Disabilities
Are you looking for a way to impact people with developmental disabilities by influencing public policy? Consider joining the effort of the Ohio Association of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities (OACB).
Creation of County Boards of Developmental Disabilities
In 1967, Ohio set up County Boards of Developmental Disabilities to help people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities. This shift in thinking and policy offered different options than state-run institutions, allowing individuals to live, work, and engage in their local communities.
Founded in 1984, the Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB) offers various services and support to the 616 volunteer board members and thousands of professionals working in Ohio’s Developmental Disability services.
Mission and Vision
Mission- OACB helps boards succeed through professional development, technical assistance, advocacy, and communication.
Vision- OACB envisions a strong, connected, inclusive Ohio where people have the opportunity to choose the life they want.
Key ways to get involved:
OACB Advocacy Scholars Program:A program for people with developmental disabilities (16+) to receive Project STIR™ training, serve on the Policy Advisory Committee, and shape state policy.
Engage Locally: Attend county board of Developmental Disabilities (DD) meetings, engage with local superintendents, and participate in board-sponsored groups like the Parents & Advocates Advisory Council (PAAC).
Legislative Advocacy: Build relationships with local and state officials (representatives/senators) to discuss policy impacts on the DD system.
Stay Informed: Subscribe to the OACB PolicyBrief for updates on legislation, policy analysis, and action alerts by contacting OACB staff.
OACB PolicyBrief is a members-only policy and advocacy digest containing proprietary policy analysis, calls to action, and other similar advocacy-related documents written by OACB staff. Established in 2012, PolicyBrief also contains links to key policy documents from state and federal government agencies and selected news articles that discuss the impact of policy decisions on the DD system. It is distributed to an audience of board members, advocacy chairs, superintendents, business managers, Service Support Administrator directors, and public relations professionals at county boards of DD as well as all OACB Affiliate Members. Members can request a subscription to the OACB PolicyBrief by contacting Ruby Lobert at [email protected].
Board Service: Apply for a spot on your local DD board. As of July 2025, county boards of developmental disabilities are required by law to have members who have developmental disabilities or are family of individuals with developmental disabilities.
The OACB also provides support, such as communication strategies to help boards and advocates tell their stories and influence policies.
By engaging with the OACB, you can make a visible impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Whether through advocacy, local involvement, or board service, your efforts can help shape a more inclusive and supportive community. The OACB offers numerous opportunities to contribute to meaningful change, ensuring that people with developmental disabilities can lead fulfilling lives. Join the OACB today and be part of a movement that champions dignity, choice, and opportunity for all.