Make a Difference: Join Your County Board of Developmental Disabilities
Are you an individual with a developmental disability eager to create positive change? Consider applying to become a member of your county’s board of developmental disabilities.
According to a page on the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities found here, the mission of a county board of developmental disabilities is to coordinate and manage services for individuals with developmental disabilities in the county. This role includes evaluating eligibility for services, assessing needs, and connecting individuals with suitable resources and support. Additionally, they oversee service providers to ensure that services are delivered in the most integrated environment possible.
Each of Ohio’s 88 counties has a developmental disabilities board comprising seven members, five appointed by county commissioners and two by a judge, per the Ohio Association of County Boards (OACB). The responsibilities of county board members include:
Assessment
– Assessing county residents’ eligibility for board services
Service Administration
– Administering, operating, and funding various facilities, programs, and services
– Coordinating, monitoring, and evaluating services and facilities available for people with developmental disabilities
– Providing or contracting for early childhood, supportive home, and adult services
– Offering or contracting for special education services
-Providing service and support administration (case management)
– Certifying respite care homes
Budgeting
– Adopting a budget and authorizing expenditures
– Submitting annual reports of board activities and expenditures
– Authorizing employment positions, establishing compensation (including salary schedules and fringe benefits), approving multi-year management contracts, employing legal counsel, and contracting for employee benefits
Policy Implementation and Monitoring
– Implementing an Employment First policy to prioritize community employment for every working-age individual receiving board services
– Setting benchmarks to improve community employment outcomes, among other responsibilities
Per www.Ohiolaw.gov, starting July 1, 2025, each Ohio County Board of Developmental Disabilities must include at least one board member who is a person with a developmental disability.
According to OACB, to become a board member of a county board of developmental disabilities in Ohio, you typically need to be appointed by either the county commissioners or the probate judge. The process involves expressing interest, potentially submitting an application, and meeting specific eligibility requirements. Below is a more detailed breakdown of the steps you should take to become a member of your county board of developmental disabilities.
1. Express Interest and Contact the County
– Identify the relevant county commissioners or probate judge based on your preferred appointing authority.
– Communicate your interest in serving on the county board of developmental disabilities.
– Share your contact information, along with relevant background and experience details.
2. Eligibility Declaration
– Complete and submit a board member eligibility declaration to the appropriate appointing authority.
– This declaration typically verifies your U.S. citizenship and confirms there are no conflicts of interest.
3. Potential Application
– Depending on the county, you may need to fill out a formal application form, detailing your background, qualifications, and relevant experience.
– Some applications might require supporting documentation, such as official transcripts or copies of pertinent licenses or certifications.
4. Interview and Selection
– The appointing authority (county commissioners or probate judge) will likely review applications and conduct interviews.
– They will assess your qualifications, experience, and dedication to community service.
5. Appointment
– If selected, you will be appointed to the county board of developmental disabilities by the appointing authority.
– Board members typically serve a term of four years and may qualify for reappointment.
Key Considerations
– Eligibility: You must be a U.S. citizen without conflicts of interest, such as being an elected official in the county or having a family member receiving services from a contracted provider.
– Board Composition: County Boards of Developmental Disabilities should include individuals with developmental disabilities, family members of those with developmental disabilities, and others who can represent the county’s diverse needs.
– Relevant Experience: Experience on boards or committees, especially those focused on developmental disabilities, can be beneficial.
– First-Hand Knowledge: Applicants should possess an understanding of developmental disabilities and the services provided by the county board of developmental disabilities.
If you’re interested in making a local impact by applying to serve on your county’s board of developmental disabilities and need help reaching out for an application, please contact ACIL Independent Living Specialist, Allison Boot, at 937-245-0009 or at [email protected].
