NFB of Ohio and OOD Partner to Serve Ohioans Who are Blind or Have Low Vision

From left to right: Beth Weinel, Joel Carson, Dr. Carolyn Peters, Richard Payne, Matthew Skira, Laurita Jones, Molly Brockman, and Izzy Noble.

Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) is dedicated to expanding its reach, aiming to serve an additional 7,000 Ohioans with Disabilities annually, thanks to the generous support from Ohio Governor Mike DeWine and Lt. Governor Jon Husted's current operating budget. Their significant investments provide OOD with the maximum federal grant dollars available by the second year of the biennium, enabling the Vocational Rehabilitation program to assist more Ohioans with disabilities in securing and maintaining employment. 

 

This milestone achievement wouldn't be possible without our incredible network of partners across Ohio. OOD is fortunate to collaborate with various entities, including schools, county boards of developmental disabilities, provider agencies, medical and mental health providers, other State of Ohio agencies, and many other valued partners. One such impactful partnership is with the National Federation of the Blind of Ohio (NFB of Ohio). 

 

In December, several OOD staff members attended the NFB of Ohio—Miami Valley Chapter's meeting at Christ Episcopal Church. This long-standing partnership focuses on fostering independence for individuals who are blind or have low vision through meaningful employment opportunities. During the meeting, OOD staff members had the opportunity to introduce themselves to the group and highlight the array of services available through OOD's Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI). 

 

Maria “Izzy” Noble, OOD's Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation/BSVI Supervisor, emphasized, "The strength of our community lies in the connections we share. Maintaining robust relationships with organizations like NFB of Ohio results in increased referrals and a broader understanding of our mission to serve." 

 

Richard Payne, President of NFB of Ohio, shared similar sentiments, stating, "It will take all of us collectively to address negative attitudes and barriers." 

 

The Reverend Dr. Carolyn Peters, former chair of the OOD Council and current vice president of NFB of Ohio and president of its Miami Valley Chapter, emphasized the value of OOD's personalized services and training for individuals who are blind and have low vision in Ohio. She said, "I truly feel that NFB of Ohio's relationship with OOD is valuable because OOD provides individualized services and training for individuals who are blind or have low vision in the state of Ohio. These services prepare individuals to live the life they want and become employed, tax-paying citizens, which is the greatest reward."  

 

Joel Carson is Dr. Peters' son. He explained, "My upbringing led me to teach young children early in my adult life, then to behavioral service, then as a direct support professional, and now as a Staff Development and Training Coordinator at Resident Home Association. OOD is important because the need for employment opportunities is essential."   

 

Molly Brockman succinctly summarized her experience: "OOD helped me find a job, making my life more fulfilling." 

 

If you're interested in establishing a partnership with OOD, we encourage you to reach out to us at info@OOD.Ohio.gov today.