State Rep. Riordan McClain recently visited the Crawford County Board of Developmental Disabilities to learn more about the services it provides, according to a community announcement.
McClain toured Richland Newhope Industries in Bucyrus, where he learned about the opportunities available to individuals served by the organization, according to a community announcement. The visit highlighted how RNI empowers people with developmental disabilities to achieve greater independence and community involvement through meaningful work and skill-building.
He also toured Fairway Preschool, an inclusive early childhood education program serving children ages 3 to 5, both with and without disabilities. Kim Pittman, director of education at Fairway Preschool, shared how the program provides individualized educational experiences and developmental support that prepare children for lifelong learning.
McClain met with several providers and advocates
Throughout the day, McClain engaged with local providers and advocates, including Chris Ritchie and Traci Pigg, representatives from Bridges to Independence, a residential provider, and Chrysalis Advantage Point, which provides adult day supports. He also met with Gabby Kozinski, former Ms. Wheelchair Ohio, Court Sturts, superintendent of Crawford DD, and Adam Herman and Jake Dowling, representatives from the Ohio Association of County Boards. Each participant shared valuable insights about the challenges and successes within Ohio’s DD service system.
A key topic of discussion during the visit was the critical role of local property taxes in sustaining essential DD services. Sturts explained that approximately 78% of Crawford DD’s funding comes from local property tax levies, underscoring the community’s vital role in ensuring continued support for individuals with developmental disabilities.
According to the announcement, McClain’s visit reinforced the importance of continued collaboration between policymakers, service providers and community members in strengthening opportunities for Ohioans with developmental disabilities.
“Representative McClain’s visit provided a meaningful opportunity to showcase the impact of local DD services and to advocate for the ongoing needs of individuals and families in our community,” Sturts said in the announcement. “We appreciate his interest in learning more about the services and supports provided in Crawford County.”
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