For the first time since 2019, the Franklin County Board of Developmental Disabilities is hosting an in-person provider fair to help connect people with disabilities and local disability-services providers.

The annual event, which draws hundreds of families and providers, did not take place for the past three years due to the COVID pandemic. This year’s fair returns to the Lausche building at the Ohio Expo Center (state fairgrounds) from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. on April 27.

Organizers expect hundreds of people with disabilities, providers and resource groups to attend. Color-coded balloons help individuals and families know what types of Medicaid-waiver services are offered by each provider. Larry Macintosh, FCBDD director of administrative services and support, said the event will spotlight remote supports, shared living opportunities and accessible transportation available through the Central Ohio Transit Authority. E.C.T. pedicabs will be available inside the large building.

Interpreters for American Sign Language, Arabic, Chinese/Mandarin, French, Fulani, Somali, Susu, Spanish and Swahili also will be on hand.

Families and individuals who need more information should contact their service coordinator or Anne Watson at 614-342-5574 or [email protected]; or Anne Russell at 614-342-5550 or [email protected]