I hope the holiday season brings you rest, renewal, and time to connect with loved ones. As we approach 2026, I’m inspired to reflect on the wonderful staff, partners, families, and individuals who have made 2025 an incredible year.
Advocacy in Action
Over the past year, new initiatives to empower people we serve to join local community groups and advisory committees exceeded our expectations. Advocates polished their skills, confidence, and leadership abilities, joining organizations across the community, including the Cincinnati Zoo Accessibility Board, the Hamilton County Commission on Women and Girls, a Victims of Crime with I/DD Focus Group, and the Cincinnati Art Museum Accessibility Improvement Project. Advocacy groups also participated in candidate forums and Pen to Policy events with elected officials. Real change happens when those with lived experience have a seat at the table.
Bringing the Community Together
We also hosted events that strengthened connections, celebrated achievements, and supported the people and families we serve. Highlights included Accessible Hamilton County with the 513 Relief Bus, our Employer Appreciation Breakfast celebrating employment success stories, the Advocacy Summit recognizing advocates, DSP Recognition Week honoring the amazing direct support professionals across Hamilton County, our Transition Night for students and families exploring post-graduation options, Disability Pride Month celebrations that brought together advocates and allies, Early Intervention playgroups for families to connect, and PigAbilities Meetups that helped participants train for the race.
The Foundation of Our Success
These successes build on the quality, day-to-day work that supports people with disabilities to live full lives and empowers families to support their loved ones. None of this would be possible without the dedication of many people working with individuals and families directly, as well as those behind the scenes who keep our operations strong. I’m proud of the incredible team at HCDDS and their unwavering commitment to our mission. Equally important are our provider and community partners, whose collaboration and expertise make our shared impact possible. We’re grateful to work alongside you in service of our community.
Looking Ahead to 2026
In the coming year, we’ll continue strengthening our financial position to ensure sustainability. Like other county boards across the state, we’re undertaking this work to align resources with mission and community needs. We’re also focused on priorities you’ve identified through recent surveys and conversations: supporting inclusive childcare, providing tools to find housing, leveraging community partnerships to improve access to healthcare and transportation, and more.
If you’d like to learn more about our plans, you can review our 2026 Draft Annual Plan here. There’s still time to submit feedback before the end of the year and help shape that plan before it’s finalized in January. We’d love to hear from you, and we’ll continue sharing updates about our progress next year.
With Gratitude
Thank you for your ongoing partnership and commitment to our mission. Your support makes all this possible, and I’m honored to work alongside such a dedicated community. I wish you a joyful holiday season and a happy New Year.
With gratitude,
Leia
