The Hamilton County Self-Advocacy Work Group meets on a regular basis to share their feelings on various issues and to assist in the Board planning for the future. The Self-Advocacy Work Group meets each month, and is made up of people who live and work in a variety of settings. The group is facilitated by Essie Pederson. The meeting was deemed a success by all who attended. Members of the Self-Advocacy Work Group are also prominently involved in the 2002 Planning Process, which is currently under way.
Members participate in many of the planning committees.
Additionally, three sessions for direct support professionals are planned through the Academy of Direct Support Professionals. The training addresses the standards for quality outcomes and the health and safety of the individuals we serve. It covers the following areas which HFCA reviewers will likely be examining when they visit Ohio this year. Over 200 people have attended four sessions to date, with one more session scheduled. Presentations have been made by Superintendent Cheryl Phipps, administrators Margie Anderson, Lee Brack, Gerald Clark, Gay Covell, Kathy Filippi, Karroll Miller, Malti Patel, Stan Pogacar, and and Charlie Stenken.