Mike Gutierrez of the Tigers, and Mary Brandstetter of the Local Leaders pose for a photo at last year’s March Madness game. The March Madness Celebrity Basketball Game features local leaders playing against the Special Olympics Tigers. The Tigers have prevailed for the last three years. Who will win this year? ANDY GRIMM | PHOTO

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and Developmental Disabilities of Clark County wants to call attention to peoples’ abilities. “March is a time to raise an appreciation for those who are different than ourselves,” said Jennifer Rousculp-Miller, Superintendent of Developmental Disabilities of Clark County. “It’s a time to see abilities, not disabilities, and value each person for the gifts that they bring to life.”

In celebration of the abilities of the people with DD in our community, Developmental Disabilities of Clark County will be participating in or hosting the following events this month:

  • The Suzanne Hopper Memorial Volleyball Tournament, Friday, March 3, 6 p.m. to midnight at Tecumseh High School. Proceeds benefit Special Olympics.
  • Ohio Developmental Disability Awareness & Advocacy Day, March 8 at the Ohio Statehouse. Self-advocates, family members and friends will meet with legislators to tell them personal stories, and educate them on the issues most important to the developmental disabilities community.
  • Family Night at the Y, Saturday, March 18, from 5 to 7 p.m. Free healthy fun for people with disabilities, their families, friends and caregivers.
  • The DD March Madness basketball game on Wednesday, March 22, from 6:30-8 p.m. at Springfield High School. The public is encouraged to come watch local celebrities compete against the very talented Special Olympics Tigers basketball team. Admission is free and refreshments will be provided for a small donation to Quest Adult Services. Celebrities this year include:
    • Charlie Patterson, Clark County Combined Health District
    • Melissa Tuttle, Clark County Clerk of Courts
    • Horton Hobbs, Springfield Chamber of Commerce
    • Andy Wilson, Clark County Prosecutor
    • Jim Bodenmiller, Springfield City Manager
    • Pat Frock, Springfield Health and Fitness
    • Blake Shaffer, LWS Tax and Accounting Services
    • Andy Grimm, New Carlisle News
    • Deb Burchett, Clark County Sheriff
    • Jenny Rousculp-Miller, Developmental Disabilities of Clark County
    • and coached by Eddie Ford, North High School (retired)
  • A Provider Tour on Wednesday, March 29, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Fifteen providers are hosting open houses at their locations. Visit tinyurl.com/DDCCPT2017 for a flyer listing the locations.

“Everyone in benefits when we welcome people with disabilities as equals in our neighborhoods, at work, and at social events.” said Rousculp. “We must learn to look past the differences we all have, and focus on the humanity that we share.”

For more information about DD Awareness Month activities, check the website at clarkdd.org or the Developmental Disabilities of Clark County Facebook page.

Developmental Disabilities of Clark County is a publicly funded agency that empowers people throughout their lifetime, to achieve their fullest potential. Developmental Disabilities of Clark County funds and supports the F.F. Mueller Residential Center, QUEST Adult Services, in-home early intervention programs for children, transportation in specialized vehicles, family resources and respite care and vocational training. We also offer assistance to providers of developmental disabilities services, including home care agencies and independent providers.

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