Cary Merrow assists with running a coffee cart at Ewing School. (Photo provided)

The Washington County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) recently earned a prestigious three-year accreditation from the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD).

This recognition is the highest level of accreditation awarded, demonstrating the board’s commitment to providing high-quality services to individuals with developmental disabilities.

Earning this accreditation required a thorough review process. Superintendent Tiffany Neill from the Ohio DODD visited the WCBDD for two days, reviewing a select number of early intervention files, service and support administration files, and personnel records. Their goal was to ensure that the board met all regulatory criteria and maintained high standards of service.

“Having this department come on-site and review our work can increase tensions, but it’s a relief knowing that they won’t be returning for another three years instead of just one,” said Neill. “It certainly reflects the great work that we do, the dedication our staff has to paying attention to detail.”

According to Neill, many agencies focus only on specific age groups but WCBDD provides services to individuals from birth through adulthood. While the board no longer directly manages programs like Wasco, it remains responsible for developing service plans and overseeing their implementation.

Individuals receiving services from WCBDD have a wide range of support needs. Some may only require occasional check-ins from a Service and Support Administrator (SSA), while others rely on 24/7 in-home assistance.

“It’s a complete array,” Neill explained. “Some (individuals) are pretty self-sufficient, just need some support and guidance and then we have those that essentially require that 24 hour direct hands on support.”

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and WCBDD has been actively engaging the community. One of its ongoing programs involves providing first-grade students in six school districts with books that promote inclusion and acceptance.

For individuals looking to receive services, WCBDD has a straightforward intake process. Those over the age of 3 can contact the service and support administration line at 740-373-0351 to begin the eligibility process. Children under the age of 3 must go through Family and Children First before WCBDD’s developmental specialists step in.

Community members interested in supporting the board’s mission can volunteer or make donations. However, due to school regulations, volunteers providing more than 40 hours of service must undergo background checks. Those interested can contact the main office at 740-373-3781, where staff will direct them to the appropriate department.