Sharing Ideas Across Borders sarah February 28, 2025

Sharing Ideas Across Borders

HCDDS recently welcomed guests from Ukraine and Georgia to exchange ideas about inclusive education for students with developmental disabilities. Our international visitors also learned about how HCDDS implements trauma-responsive care, a key approach to supporting individuals.  

Behavior Support Manager Kimi Remenyi and Supervising Psychologist Dr. Lauren Jones led an engaging presentation on trauma-responsive care. They explained how trauma affects the brain and body, ways to create a sense of safety, and strategies to support trauma survivors.

“Sharing information with both the Ukrainian and Georgian visitors was profoundly impactful,” Jones said. “I have the deepest respect for our visitors. The feeling of connecting with other humans from across the globe in such a unifying way and through a shared desire to help others was moving.” 

The Ukrainian delegation shared meaningful gifts, including a decorative plate and scarves in the colors of the Ukrainian flag, symbolizing their country’s sky and wheat fields, which represent peace and joy.

This visit was made possible through partnerships with Cincinnati Sister Cities, Fernside Center for Grieving Children and the World Affairs Council of Cincinnati and Northern Kentucky. HCDDS is proud to collaborate with partners to forge global connections and work together to create a more inclusive world for people with developmental disabilities. 

A group of thirteen people, including men and women, stand in two rows, posing for a photo in a room with a light-colored wall. A table is visible in the foreground, adorned with Christmas gifts for kids with disabilities, adding warmth to the scene.
A collage of two photos. Left Photo: A decorative plate featuring Ukrainian national symbols: wheat, berries, and a blue and yellow ribbon, with text in Ukrainian that translates to "Everything will be Ukraine!" Right Photo: A blue and yellow silk scarf with floral patterns and the word "Ukraine" printed on it, placed on a wooden surface.