The Central Ohio Self Determination Association recently hosted a kickoff gathering and is working to re-activate its regional self-advocacy work.

The group, a part of the Ohio Self Determination Association, had paused events during the pandemic. Meetings are now planned for every other month and are open to central Ohio residents with developmental disabilities who live in Franklin, Delaware, Fairfield, Licking, Madison, Pickaway and Union counties.

“We know it’ll take a while to get things going again, since we’re starting back after three-and-a-half years,” organizer Christine Brown said. “But I think the first one went really well.”

The aim is to provide a forum for people to speak out on issues and concerns, and to learn about advocacy opportunities. “I speak up for myself on a daily basis,” said Travis Dresbach, an advocate and Pickaway County Board of Developmental Disabilities staff member who attended the first meeting. “The most recent was when my transportation showed up an hour and a half late.”

In addition to transportation, advocates said other possible discussion topics include STABLE accounts, supported decision-making, volunteer opportunities for people with disabilities, Social Security, Medicaid and Project STIR (Steps Toward Independence and Responsibility).

The first meeting was held on Aug. 18 and the next is planned for 10:30 a.m. Oct. 13 at the FCBDD administration building, 2879 Johnstown Rd. For more information or to attend an upcoming meeting, please email Christine Brown at [email protected]