News

Taking care of people is something Joan Schoenfelt has been doing almost her entire life.  You could say she was born into a life of service.

No one can say Maggie Smith is afraid of hard work.

A new rule is now in place that allows for a much overdue update of Ohio’s Medicaid waiver waiting list.

Not all of us are as fortunate as Vicki Thornsberry to find your life’s passion at the age of 14.  But that’s just what happened to Vicki when she began visiting a group home where her grandmother worked.

Cassy Hehmeyer says she has to be her own boss.  That’s one of the reasons why being an independent provider is a good fit.

The U.S. Department of Justice has told Ohio and other states that people with developmental disabilities need to be provided services in the most integrated settings possible.

For John Caugherty, becoming involved with Special Olympics was more than just a volunteer opportunity.  It was a calling.

Two long-time local nurses have embarked on a new career supporting individuals with developmental disabilities.Melody Pitts and Donna Goddard have more than 55 years of combined nursing experience. 

Sometimes it takes just one person or one event to know you’ve found the right career path.For Liz Prather, that happened 35 years ago as she was beginning her tenure with Richland Newhope and her work in the developmental disabilities field.  There was one individual who she was responsible for training to do a job at Richland Newhope Industries, Inc. who made a lasting impression. 

When you first meet Maxson Brown, you can’t help but be captivated by his smile. It belies the many challenges the 19-month-old has had to face during his short life and the many more still to come.

Providing for the many needs of someone with a disability can be difficult, especially if that person receives government assistance like Medicaid or Supplemental Security Income (SSI). Another option is a special needs trust (SNT).  There are two potential types: First Party SNT where the assets are owned by the beneficiary with a disability and Third Party SNT, which has assets owned by someone other than the beneficiary. 

The Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities said goodbye in December to two long-time members.Margaret Davis and Virginia Harmon finished their third consecutive four-year term – the maximum allowed for board members.  The Mansfield residents both have children who receive supports from Richland Newhope.