Find Specialized Resources Just for Youth
SOCIL provides effective tools, addresses special concerns, and connects you to resources and services.
SOCIL works together with parent and child to identify goals, modifications, accommodations, and support services that need to be incorporated into the Individualized Education Plan (IEP).
- SOCIL offers guidance for the transition from pre-school to elementary as well as middle school to high school
- SOCIL offers guidance for the transition into post-secondary education, such as college or a career/technical program
- Connects you with employment services that work with you to define an employment goal, and match your strengths, abilities, and interests
- SOCIL directs you to resources to learn more about disability benefits, and asset-building opportunities to help you build a healthy financial future.
High School Transition Resource Guide
A High School Transition Resource Guide is available for students and their families as they prepare for life after high school. Select any section heading below to expand it — the full guides are provided as accessible, screen-reader-friendly text.
Fairfield County Guide
Transition from School to Community
If your child is on an IEP and is 13 years of age, it is now time to start thinking about the transition from school to community. At age 14, a transition plan is required in the IEP. Between age 14 and 16, the team will begin discussing transition and writing goals with this in mind. You can begin working now to move forward on other aspects of daily living: income, employment, health coverage, and other support services. It’s never too early to make plans for your child’s future. Here are some recommendations:
Finances/Income
To get Social Security Children’s benefits, a child must have:
- A parent(s) who is disabled or retired and entitled to Social Security benefits;
or
- A parent who died after having worked long enough in a job where he or she
paid Social Security taxes. The child also must be:
- Unmarried;
- Younger than 18;
- 18-19 years old and a full-time student (no higher than grade 12); or 18 or
older and disabled. (The disability must have started before age 22.) Another type of benefit is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI makes monthly payments to people with low income and limited resources who are 65 or older, or blind or disabled. Your child under age 18 can qualify if he or she meets Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and if his or her income and resources fall within the eligibility limits. Prior to attainment of age 18, the parent(s) income is also considered when determining eligibility.
Health Care/Insurance
If your child is covered under your medical insurance, check with the company to see AT WHAT AGE your child will no longer be covered. Coverage may end at a certain age or when they leave school. One problem with losing SSI at age 18 (or when leaving school) is that you may ALSO LOSE MEDICAID. If your child requires uninterrupted medical coverage, you may not want to allow their Medicaid to lapse, and may want to ensure their adult Social Security application is completed six months before then. Apply for the Ohio Home Care Waiver through Job & Family Services if your child either needs assistance to live independently or needs services like home health care, accessibility, nursing care, and respite.
The Affordable Care Act provides new funding to state Medicaid programs that choose to cover preventive services for patients at little or no cost. It also prohibits discrimination due to pre-existing conditions. The law also eliminates the ability of insurance companies to charge higher rates due to gender or health status. There are also tax credits available for low income families. Americans who earn less than 13% of the poverty level are eligible to enroll in Medicaid. For more information visit
Employment
A referral to the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (or OOD) can be made at age 14. If you have goals related to employment, make sure OOD is invited to your IEP meetings. Referrals go to the Columbus OOD front desk at 614-466- 4575, they will determine who you should contact and then give you that information or schedule you. Employment services available at the Job and Family Services include: Teen Works and Ohio Means Jobs. Ohio Means Jobs – www.ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov Employment First Initiative - www.ohioemploymentfirst.org
Ohio Department of Education - Career Pathways -
http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Career-Tech/Career-Connections/Career-Pathways
DD (Developmental Disabilities)
Once your child becomes eligible for the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD), your child’s ISC can provide service coordination and also link you to community resources that may benefit your child and assist in the employment process. You may also be interested in joining “Parent2gether”, a private Facebook page for parents and supporter of people with disabilities. The Fairfield County Board of DD also offers Family Support Services which covers items and services needed by the family to maintain the child within the home, and is available as long as the child is living with family. Get in-home respite services through the Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Contact Tiffany Booze at 614-835-2700.
Mental Health
If your child or adolescent receives case management they will NOT necessarily qualify for case management as an adult. You may want to begin the conversation now about who will follow your child. If your child may need to see a psychiatrist, remember there is often a waiting list for that service. Contact SOCIL (740-689-1494) for linkage to agencies.
Transportation
Your child can, with your help, learn to use public transit independently. Contact Lancaster Public Transit at 740-681-5086 to apply for Mobility Passport. You can print application online: https://www.ci.lancaster.oh.us/244/Mobility-
Passport
If your child receives services through OOD they may help with the cost of driver education. If there are any questions about your child’s ability to drive, it is usually a medical doctor who makes the final decision. Drivers training and vehicle modification assessments are available at OSU -Dodd Hall at 614-293-3833 for an hourly fee. Refer to page 28 of this manual for transportation options.
Financial Skills
OSU Extension offers some several kinds of budgeting education. The Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (or SOCIL) offers basic finance class. If you have access to a computer, there are a number of online resources that teach financial skills, including “Practical Money Skills,” “Money Pals: Being Cool with Cash,” and “I Know Where I’m Going (But Will My Cash Keep Up?)” If you search online for FDIC Money Smart, you can find a “free, award-winning financial education program created to help adults develop money-management skills.” And one version is a self-paced computer program!
Facts Regarding Your Child’s Status
At 18 years a child becomes an adult and can legally make their own decisions. Upon 22 year birth date a child must exit school. Private health insurance ceases to cover a child at 25 years based on school status. Waiting lists for housing and other supports have waiting time of years.
Gateways to Benefits
Social Security Office
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for adults disabled since childhood: The SSDI program pays benefits to adults who have a disability that began before they became 22 years old. This SSDI benefit is considered as a “child’s” benefit because it is paid on a parent’s Social Security earnings record. For an adult with a disability to become entitled to this “child” benefit, one of his or her parents:
- Must be receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits; or
- Must have died and have worked long enough under Social Security.
These benefits also are payable to an adult who received dependents benefits on a parent’s Social Security earnings record prior to age 18, if he or she is disabled at age 18. The disability decision is made using the disability rules for adults. SSDI “child” benefits continue as long as the individual remains disabled. A child does not need to have worked to get these benefits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for children with disabilities: SSI makes monthly payments to people with low income and limited resources who are 65 or older, or blind or disabled. A child under age 18 can qualify if he or she meets Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and if his or her income and resources fall within the eligibility limits. The amount of the SSI payment is different from one state to another because some states add to the SSI payment. Your local Social Security office can tell you more about your state’s total SSI payment. How Social Security Decides if You have a Disability: 1. If you are not working or if you are working and making less than $1,130 a month. 2. If your condition significantly limits your ability to do basic work-related activities, such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, or remembering – for at least 12 months.
3. If your condition is found in the list of disabling conditions? For each of the major body systems, Social Security maintains a list of medical conditions that they consider severe enough that it prevents a person from doing substantial gainful activity. 4. Can you do the work you did previously? Do your medical impairment(s) prevent you from performing any of your past work? 5. Can you do any other type of work? If you can’t do the work you did in the past, we look to see if there is other work you could do despite your medical impairment(s). Also, considered are medical conditions, age, education, past work experience, and any transferable skills. If you can’t do other work, we’ll decide you are disabled. If you can do other work, we’ll decide that you don’t have a qualifying disability and your claim will be denied.
Medicare
www.medicare.gov or www.cms.gov Medicare is a health insurance program for: people age 65 or older, people under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people of all ages with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).
Medicare Part D & Extra Help
Medicare beneficiaries can apply for Extra Help with their Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Eligibility requirements have changed, some things no longer count as income and resources.
- Life insurance policies no longer count as a resource
- Help you receive regularly from someone else to pay your household
expenses—food, mortgage, rent, heating fuel or gas, electricity, water, and property taxes; no longer count as income Go to www.ssa.gov to see all eligibility requirements
Gateway to Apply:
Fairfield County 1-877-841-5712
252 Venture Place, Lancaster, Ohio 43130
Online at www.ssa.gov
Fairfield County Job and Family Services
The “Community Services” unit determines eligibility for Medicaid, food stamps, assistance with Medicare expenses, disability assistance for adults with a disability with no minor children in the home and for aged individuals. Determines eligibility for passport and waiver services as well as Medicaid for nursing home residents. JFS staff may also act as an SSI advocate to guide an individual with a disability through the Social Security system in an effort to get benefits approved.
- Medicaid
Medicaid is health insurance that helps many people who can't afford medical care pay for some or all of their medical bills. Medicaid is available only to people with limited income. You must meet certain requirements in order to be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid does not pay money to you; instead, it sends payments directly to your health care providers.
- Home and Community Based Services
Waivers
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/citizen-programs-
and-initiatives/hcbs/hcbs Home and Community Based Services Waivers provide alternatives to institutional long-term care. Without waivers many consumers would live in a hospital, nursing home, or Institutional Care Facility for the Mentally
Retarded (ICF/MR)
- Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/citizen-programs-
and-initiatives/medicaid-buy-in-for-workers-with-disabilities The Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD) program allows individuals with disabilities who are working to qualify for Medicaid with higher income and resource limits, and buy into Medicaid by paying a reasonable premium based on income. Ohioans between the ages of 16 and 64 with a disability (as defined by the Social Security Administration) who are earning up to 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible. Individuals with higher incomes should still apply because income disregards, deductions, credits, and work expenses are considered in determining financial eligibility.
Gateway to apply for these benefits and more:
Fairfield County Job and Family Services
239 West Main Street
Lancaster, OH 43130 Fairfield County Department of Health
https://www.fairfieldhealth.org/
Bureau of Children with Medical Handicaps (BCMH): Children who are 0-21 years of age, permanent residents of Ohio, under the care of a BCMH approved doctor, and who have or may have a chronic medical condition are eligible for the program. Financial eligibility is required for the Treatment Program only. 1550 Sheridan Drive, Suite 100
Lancaster, OH 43130 Fairfield County Board of DD
(614-835-2700) or (740-652-7220) Provides assistance to those who want to become or stay employed by determining how benefits will be affected by earned income. The goal is to enable individuals to maximize their current or potential benefits from sources such as Social Security, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, and others while becoming or staying employed. To discuss benefits, contact Fairfield County Board of DD at the numbers listed above.
Disability Benefits 101
Gives you tools and information on health coverage, benefits and employment. You can plan ahead and learn how work and benefits go together.
Additional Resources:
2-1-1
Information and Referral of Fairfield County
2-1-1 or (740-687-0500) Get Connected. Get Answers. The one number to call in Fairfield County when you don’t know where to turn. 24 hours a day…Fast, Free & Confidential.
Ohio Benefits
Use this site to manage or apply for healthcare, child care, food and cash benefits.
Benefits Check Up
Find benefits programs that help pay for prescription drugs, health care, rent, utilities, and other needs. Fairfield County Family, Adult and Children First Council
The council is designed to assist families and agencies in the coordination of services for our youth.
Gateways to Employment
Schools
- Fairfield County Educational Service Center
- Work Trainer/Coordinator or Job Trainer
- Serves special needs students county wide
- (740-653-3193)
- www.faircoesc.org
- Lancaster City Schools
- Director of Special Education
- (740-687-7360)
- www.lancaster.k12.oh.us
- Pickerington City Schools
- District Office – (614-833-2110) – Director of Special Education
- Pickerington Central – (614-833-3025)–Work Study Coordinator
- Pickerington North – (614-830-2791) – Work Study Coordinator
- www.pickerington.k12.oh.us
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)
(614-466-4575) or (1-800- 430-6940) The Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) and Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) help people with disabilities get or keep a job. The Division of Disability Determination (DDD) determines eligibility for Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income.
Ohio Means Jobs – Fairfield County
https://ohiomeansjobs.ohio.gov/
Ohio Means Jobs is primarily used for self-directed job searches, including online job searches, resume preparation and/or preparing for an interview. Computers are loaded with programs that will help assess career interest, aptitudes and job expansion. By browsing the Internet, one can find average wages for specific jobs or compare the job market from county to county or state to state. Youth Program (CCMEP) The Comprehensive Case Management and Employment Program (CCMEP) provides high quality services for youth and young adults, ages 16-24. Eligible youth can access a variety of career and educational services through WIOA funded programs. These services are designed to help enhance job skills, develop leadership qualities, explore career options, and take
advantage of work experiences. The CCMEP focuses on offering eligible participants access to components that will successfully connect them to education and/or in-demand industries’ occupations. CCMEP focuses on out -of-school participants to include youth who have dropped out of school, youth looking to enroll in GED programs, and high school graduates not currently employed or enrolled in post-secondary education. Contact a CCMEP Career Advisor to schedule an appointment.
Last Name:
A-H Julie Bookman 740-652-7643
I-Q Paula Calendine 740-870-3313
R-Z Madison King 740-652-7621
Contact Fairfield County Job and Family Services to apply: 239 West Main Street
Lancaster, OH 43130
Teen Works offers training in basic skills and work readiness for teens 14 -21 years, and fall within the income guidelines, and possess one or more potential barriers to employment. (i.e.: deficient in math and or reading skills, possess a disability (including IEP) go to their website for a full list)
Contact Teen Works:
714 South Ewing Street
Lancaster, Ohio 43130
Eastland Fairfield Career and Tech School
Nearly 40 career and technical programs covering practically every career field that will prepare you for college and the workforce.
Bridges to Transition Contact: Supervisor of Transition Services
Supports and vocational planning for youth ages 14-25 that are eligible for DD services. These services are through OOD.
JobFusion - Community Employment Services
Job Development, Job Training, Employer Assistance Community Employment Services assists people with disabilities in fulfilling the dream of working in the community. Services include various evaluations and assessment, job seeking skills training, job development and placement, job coaching and follow-along and on-the-job training opportunities. Most who hire a person with a disability find that they hired a dependable, quality worker whose company loyalty is unmatched by others. The Community Employment Department partners with the Ohio Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation to assist with covering costs.
Functional Training Services
Functional Training Services assists individuals with disabilities on their path to employment. We offer a variety of programs that teach job seeking skills, assist in transition to work, explore career options, and provide support to help find and maintain employment. We are committed to an individualized approach to goal selection, skill development and job development. We serve individuals who have limited or no work experience but are interested in defining their path to employment.
Goodwill Industries
Goodwill works closely with business and educational leaders to tailor trainings that help a person develop skills and earn credentials, such as training certificates and college degrees that are high demand from employers. Goodwill connects people with online and on-the-ground skills training services.
Apps for Employment:
Job Interview App
This app contains 6 preparation videos, 5 video questions, 5 video answer and 5 video advice/mentor. Download 90 more videos from inside the app. Now with over 250 flip card questions in different categories: General, Accounting, Finance, Sales, Engineering and Difficult. Each question has a hint if you tap the card. The app also has job interview checklists for you to make sure you have remembered everything. Finally take the job interview quiz to see if you are prepared. Price: Free Device: iPhone and iPad
ShowMeQR
This app creates task specific instructions (video and text) and embeds them into (and prints) proprietary ShowMeQR codes. Think of it as a personal assistant. ShowMeQR creates and prints QR codes that can be placed on (or near) objects. After scanning a ShowMeQR code, instructional videos and /or written instructions are presented. If the user needs immediate assistance, pressing the help button summons. ShowMeQR actually requires two different apps. One app, ShowMeQR Manager, creates the QR code and the second app, ShowMeQR Scanner reads the QR code. ShowMeQR Manager cost $9.99. ShowMeQR Scanner cost $2.99.
Device: iPhone, iPad, Android Post-Secondary Schooling: Ohio University
Offers associate, bachelor and master degree programs.
Hocking College
With more than 50 associate degree programs to choose from, students will gain the concrete skills necessary to successfully further their education and pursue a profession.
Wright State University
Eastland-Fairfield Career and Technical Schools: Adult
Workforce Development
Nearly 40 career and technical programs covering practically every career field that will prepare you for college and the workforce.
Columbus State Community College
The Developmental Education Department prepares students for college-level courses and empowers them to succeed academically, personally, and professionally. The program assists new comers to Columbus State with their transition from high school or to improve skills in the workplace.
Ohio Department of Education - College Credit Plus
http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options/College-Credit-Plus
College Credit Plus can help you earn college and high school credits at the same time by taking college courses from community colleges or universities. The purpose of this program is to promote rigorous academic pursuits and to provide a wide variety of options to college-ready students. Other Colleges, Universities and Resources Consult specific college websites based on academic interest. Visit www.PrincetonReview.com/college-rankings/best-colleges for college rankings & evaluations Visit www.FastWeb.com to search for available scholarships & financial aid
Accredited Online Schools –
http://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/resources/best-accredited-colleges-schools-
for-students-with-disabilities/ For college options for students with intellectual disabilities visit
Support Devices & Apps
PaperPort Notes allows users to express ideas in whatever manner they are most comfortable with. Notes can be created by keyboarding, writing with a finger or stylus, using speech to text or a combination of all three. The app supports image insertion into the note as well as attaching audio recorded using the device’s microphone. Text can be highlighted for greater emphasis and read back using the text-to-speech function to ensure accuracy. Take a photo of a page of text from a book, newspaper or letter and have it converted into an editable note almost instantly. DNotes are automatically converted to PDF and can be sent using Dropbox, Google Docs, email, iTunes or printed. Indexing notes and creating folders isn’t an option; however, there is a bookmarking and search function that keeps work from getting lost on a virtual desktop.
Price: Free Device: iPad
Smartpen is a high-tech writing tool that records spoken words and synchronizes them with notes users write on special paper. A student can record everything a teacher says and later replay any part of a lecture by tapping the pen’s tip on words written throughout the class. The Echo and Pulse from Livescribe are among the most popular smartpens. The cost starts at $99 and the pens can be found online or at retail stores. Smartpens require special paper that Livescribe sell in notebook form for $7.00 and has to be purchased at www.livescribe.com Contact SOCIL 740-689-1494 to tryout the Livescribe Echo on site.
Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology and Accessible Educational Materials Center
The Assistive Technology Center at OCALI features resources, supports (including assistive technology assessments), professional development and a short-term lending library to assist in the effective implementation of assistive technologies for persons with disabilities.
Assistive Technology of Ohio (AT Ohio)
https://atohio.engineering.osu.edu/
AT Ohio offers training and demonstrations on the use of devices, equipment or services that assist individuals with disabilities to function independently at home, school or work. AT Ohio has a device lending library and computer refurbishing program where individuals with disabilities can receive a refurbished computer for $60. Students in high school can reach out to the Fairfield County Educational Service Center (740-653-3193) for guidance and assessment on the use of assistive technology.
Supporting Services: Job Accommodation Network
Designed to increase the employability of people with disabilities by: 1) providing individualized worksite accommodations solutions, 2) providing technical assistance regarding the ADA and other disability related legislation, and 3) educating callers about self-employment options.
National Center for Learning Disabilities
Successful transition to college for students with learning disabilities.
College Financial Aid
- School guidance counselors are the best local source of information.
- Federal student aid applications must be submitted by June 30th of the high
school senior year. Corrections via the internet are due by September 15th. More information can be obtained at the federal aid website https://studentaid.gov/ or call 1-800-433-3243. United Way of Fairfield County provides Free FAFSA preparations. Visit their website at https://uwayfairfieldcogo.martinbarkerdesign.com/uway_FAFSA.html or call 740-653-0643.
- Individual schools will have their own deadlines for assistance. Students
need to be certain to get their applications completed and mailed in on time to be considered for financial aid. Remember that the due date could be the date that the application is received or it could be the date that the application is processed. Be sure you ask. If the due date is the date of the application is processed it would need to be to the school before that date.
- State of Ohio student aid applications should be applied for prior to the start
of the student’s senior year. The Ohio Department of Higher Education’s email hotline is hotline@highered.ohio.gov or go to their website at
https://highered.ohio.gov/https://highered.ohio.gov/
- For a list of scholarships available based on student’s disability, contact
SOCIL at 740-689-1494.
- Other information may be found at:
https://www.collegescholarships.org/financial-aid/
Asset Development
Three Myths Regarding People with Disabilities and Asset Development 1. People with disabilities are unable to work. TRUTH: Work produces income which is the first step towards saving and building assets. 2. People with disabilities have all their needs met by their special programs. TRUTH: People with disabilities want to reduce their reliance on government benefits and have more freedom and independence. 3. People with disabilities can’t be expected to save and build assets. TRUTH: People with disabilities want a better economic future. They are starting businesses and becoming homeowners. The best ways to begin building assets: 1) Go to work. People receiving Social Security benefits should meet with their local:
- Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) representative in order
to understand how working and saving may impact their benefits. Also contact WIPA to better understand how to utilize certain tools such as a Plan for Achieving Self-Sufficiency (PASS) or Medicaid Buy-In in order to achieve your financial goals. Your WIPA representative is at the COVA office at 1- 877-521-2682. 2) Develop a savings account.
- Contact your local banker or credit union to establish a cost free savings
account. 3) Develop a STABLE account (www.stableaccount.com) A STABLE Account is an investment account available to eligible individuals with disabilities allowing them to save and invest money without losing eligibility for Medicaid, SSI, or SSDI. Funds in a STABLE account are not subject to tax as long as the funds are spent on “Qualified Disability Expenses”. STABLE accounts have some similar features to normal bank accounts, but they are not checking or savings accounts. STABLE accounts are investment accounts, similar to 529 college savings accounts or 401k retirement accounts. When you deposit money into your STABLE account, your money will be invested in different options that you choose. While you can still withdraw and spend your money whenever you need it, STABLE accounts also allow you to grow your money and to save long-term for disability expenses.
With a STABLE account you can get a STABLE Card which is a loadable prepaid debit card. The STABLE card does not pull money directly out of your STABLE account; instead you get to choose a specific amount of money to load onto your card. This way, you can better control budgets and plan for your Qualified Disability Expenses. If you are a parent or other authorized legal representative for a loved one’s STABLE account, you can also request a companion card for that individual. The STABLE card’s discrete loading feature allows you to limit how much money your loved one can access at any given time. You can use your STABLE card to spend money anywhere MasterCard is accepted. Although it is a loadable card, it works just like a regular debit card. There are qualifying expenses for the STABLE account, however it can be used for expenses besides “qualifying expenses” but it will count as taxable income and there is an additional 10% tax. For more information visit the STABLE website listed above. 4) Look at other ways to supplement income: Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The EITC is the largest federal support program for low-income individuals and families. The EITC is a refundable credit. What this means is that if you qualify based on your income, even when you have no tax liability, you will receive a tax refund. You must file your taxes to receive this refund, even if you do not have any tax liability. For more information please visit the following website: https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned- income-tax-credit
- The EITC has no effect on certain welfare benefits. In most cases, EITC
payments will not be used to determine eligibility for Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), food stamps, low-income housing or most Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) payments. FIVE MYTHS OF THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT (EITC)
- You have to be married or have children to be eligible. FALSE
- You have to owe taxes to be eligible. FALSE
- You do not have to file to get your tax refund. FALSE
- The EITC refund will impact my other public benefits. FALSE
- You cannot be self-employed and receive the EITC. FALSE
- Questions about qualifying for the EITC
To learn whether an individual is eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit they can access the link above and answer some questions and provide basic income information. The program will also assist in determining correct filing status, determining whether child(ren) meet the tests for a qualifying child, and estimate the amount of credit an individual may receive.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program: The VITA Program offers free tax help to low- to moderate-income (generally, $42,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Certified volunteers sponsored by various organizations receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations. Most locations also offer free electronic filing. To locate the nearest VITA site, call 1-800-829-1040 or:
Contact your local United Way office or
Visit https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for- you-by-volunteers 5) Expand Your Financial Literacy Skills: Money Smart Financial Literacy Curriculum The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, better known as the FDIC, created the Money Smart Curriculum to help youth and adults outside the financial mainstream enhance their money skills and create positive banking relationships. Get to know Money Smart. Review the FDIC Money Smart website at
https://www.fdic.gov/consumer-resource-center/money-smart
VISA Financial Literacy Soccer Game: The National Disability Institute worked with Visa to launch Financial Soccer. Financial Soccer is a fast-paced, multiple-choice question game, testing players' knowledge of financial management skills as they advance down field, and try to score goals. Also available in SOCIL Loan Library – contact SOCIL – 740-689-1494
Or if you prefer football go to
https://www.practicalmoneyskills.com/play/financial_football. You can play as your favorite NFL team. There are easy, medium and difficult questions. The more difficult the question the more yardage you get on the play if the question is answered correctly.
Residential Options
Fairfield Metropolitan Housing Authority
Helps low-income families and individuals in Fairfield County obtain suitable and affordable housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, a long-term rental assistance program. An individual that receives a Voucher rents a home on the private market (owned by someone other than the Housing Authority). On this program you are responsible to locate your own rental unit. The rent that the household is responsible for is based on a percentage of the income for the entire household. The Housing Authority will pay the remainder of the rent directly to the landlord. To be placed on the waiting list for assistance you must complete a pre-application card. You can receive a pre-application by any of the following:
- You may call our office and one will be mailed to you
- Stop in our office during office hours and they are in the lobby
- E-mail our office and request one be mailed to you.
Subsidized Apartments (for persons with disabilities and seniors) Rent based on 30% of adjusted annual income. For a listing of these apartments contact:
- Fairfield Metropolitan Housing Authority (653-6618)
- Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (689-1494)
- Fairfield County DD (652-7220)
- Fairfield County 211.org (211)
Residential State Supplement (RSS)
Residential State Supplement (RSS) provides a monetary supplement to adults with disabilities 18 years or older who meet eligibility requirements. The supplement, along with the consumer's income, pays for an approved living arrangement. RSS participants must live in a certified Adult Foster Home, licensed Adult Family Home, licensed Adult Group Home, licensed Residential Care Facility, certified Community Mental Health Housing or licensed Mental Health Residential Facility or nursing home.
Dormitory
Contact the Disability Services department of the college you are planning to attend to insure accessibility needs are met.
Additional Resources: Housing Locator
Free online rental housing locator that allows visitors to search for affordable, accessible rental housing statewide. 2-1-1
Information and Referral of Fairfield County
2-1-1 or (740-687-0500) Project House Call – list of private landlords in Fairfield County. Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)
Assistance on identifying home modifications to increase accessibility. Our goal is to assist people with disabilities to live with the maximum degree of independence in their community.
Legal Issues/Advocacy
Guardianship
A child automatically becomes their own legal guardian upon age 18 years. Any court intervention to alter this status takes approximately 3 months. There are new rules impacting guardianship in Ohio effective June 1, 2015. The new rules require training, monitoring and background checks and say that guardians must meet with their wards at least every three months. For details on the guardianship processes go to:
Disability Rights Ohio
Alternatives to Guardianship
Guardianship is a serious step that interferes with many or all of the legal interests and rights of the person with a disability. Rethink the need for guardianship in its traditional purpose and assist people to find the assistance they need in making decisions and managing their lives using the same resources available to all community members. Reject the idea that because a person has an intellectual or physical disability, he or she is automatically incompetent and requires a guardian. Understand that all people receive assistance from family, friends and/or paid professionals when making major life decisions. Support people to put alternatives to guardianship in place, preferably prior to the need for such assistance:
- Representative Payeeship: If the only significant income an individual
receives is a monthly Supplemental Security Income check, it may not be necessary for the person to have a guardian of the estate. A representative payee may be able to handle relevant financial matters for the person.
- Power of Attorney: Signed by a competent person, it authorizes another
person to act on his or her behalf in certain acts and/or certain periods of time.
- Trust: In a trust, a trustee holds and manages money or property for the
benefit of the person. There have been changes in laws regulating trusts in recent years. This is a summary of those changes.
- Except for good cause shown or disqualification, the court must
appoint a guardian in accordance with the individual’s most recent guardian nomination in their Power of Attorney.
- In certain situations, a private settlement agreement can be used to
modify the terms of a trust without court involvement.
- A trustee can, under certain circumstances, distribute the assets of one
trust into another trust with substantially similar administrative provisions and beneficiaries. This practice is commonly referred to as trust decanting.
- When a beneficiary named in a trust dies before the testator/grantor,
and the testator/grantor does not clearly state the gift is invalid in such event, the gift will instead be distributed to the lineal descendants of the beneficiary, if the beneficiary was a grandparent, descendant of a grandparent or a step-child of the testator/grantor.
- Conservatorship: A person who is mentally competent but has a physical
disability may ask a court to appoint a conservator to handle specific matters. If a person already has a guardian, make every effort to assure that the guardianship is limited and specific in scope. Review at least annually and request the guardianship be relinquished as soon as other supports are in place. When choosing a lawyer always make sure the lawyer is familiar with public policy as it pertains to persons with disabilities.
Disability Rights Ohio
DRO is the state protection and advocacy system for Ohioans with disabilities. If you think you have been abused or neglected, discriminated against, denied services or been unable to access public facilities, you should contact the DRO Intake Department.
Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO)
LASCO helps low-income individuals with civil legal problems in Fairfield and Hocking Counties, offices in Athens, Chillicothe, Newark Ohio.
Legal Clinic
(740-687-0500 or Fairfield Co. - 211) Free legal advice to income eligible individuals.
Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities
OCECD is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the educational interests of children with disabilities. They assist individuals or groups with such areas as:
- Public policy and school reform
- Identification of disabilities
- Early intervention for infants and preschoolers
- Family support systems
- Special education
- Community based services
- Information, referral and networking services
- Transition from high school to employment/college in the community
- Resources for professionals
- Team work between persons with disabilities, their families and service
providers
Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI)
OCALI serves families, educators, and professionals working with students with autism and low-incidence disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairments, other health impairments, and traumatic brain injuries. OCALI's mission is to build state- and system-wide capacity to improve their outcomes through leadership, training and professional development, technical assistance, collaboration, and technology. They believe that families, as well as professionals, play a critical role in promoting the highest possible achievement of each child. To that end, they see connection and partnership with families as vital to the success of each individual at school and in the community.
Department of Education
Official site providing information on U.S. education, policy, research, grants, financial aid and more.
Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)
SOCIL offers a wide variety of services. Our goal is to assist people with disabilities to live with the maximum degree of independence in their community.
Fairfield County Board of DD
State Support Team Region 11
Special Education Technical Assistance for: Franklin, Fairfield, Pickaway, Madison, Union, Delaware, Licking & Ross Counties.
Transportation
Lancaster Public Transit
www.ci.lancaster.oh.us/242/transit
(740-681-5086) to schedule rides (740-687-6858) for questions and answers Provides curb to curb transit in Lancaster and Fairfield County. Discount rates available to persons with disabilities that have the Mobility Passport. LPT also has fixed routes available Memorial Express, East End Loop and West Loop with minimal transfer fees for all three routes. Visit their website for more details and schedule. Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL) can provide training on how to utilize transit. Contact Scott at 740-689-1494 ext. 204
Fun Bus
(740-653-TAXI (8294) Provides services in Lancaster and surrounding area. For more details and rates visit their website.
Go Bus
Provides services between Athens and Columbus with stops in Athens, Nelsonville, Logan, Lancaster and Columbus (including the Columbus Airport). Visit their website for schedule.
Fairfield County Job and Family Services
Provides transportation for medical appointments to Medicaid recipients.
Fairfield Center for Independence
Provides door to door transit for medical appointments to Medicaid recipients. Non- medical transportation is at private pay rates. Provides transit to its day placement services.
Samaritan Center
Provides door to door transit for medical appointments to Medicaid recipients. Provides transit to its day placement services.
Adaptive Driver Training OSU
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/physical-therapy-
rehabilitation/rehabilitation-driving
Offers driver training or vehicle modification assessment. Paid by insurance or private pay.
Vehicle Modifications
To purchase adaptive vehicles or to install adaptations to vehicle:
Key Mobility (937-374-3226)
Mobility Works (330-489-6666)
Fitzpatrick’s (1-800-545-1102)
Providers
Fairfield County Board of Developmental Disabilities
- Contact your assigned Individual Support Coordinator for assistance in
locating a provider.
- If you do not have an ISC contact the DD Intake Coordinator
Consumers in the Ohio Home Care Program
This site provides a directory of providers in your area. It explains the various services available to the consumer. There are generally three types of home care providers:
- Agency Providers,
- Waiver Service Providers, and
- Non-Agency Providers.
Agency Providers are companies that have a provider agreement with the ODJFS and have been issued a Medicaid Provider Number. Agencies are the employer of the individuals performing the in-home services. Waiver Services Providers are companies that provide the additional services available only to Waiver consumers. The individuals that deliver meals, install emergency response systems, or etc are employees of that business. Non-Agency providers are individuals that obtain a Medicaid Provider Number from the ODJFS. They are then eligible to provide home care services directly to the consumer. These individuals have signed a Medicaid Provider Agreement so they are self-employed.
Non-waiver consumers
State Plan Home Health Services: Less than 14 hours per week of nursing services, home health aide and skilled therapy. Consumer must have a Medicaid card. Contact Medicare certified home health agency (consult phone book). Private pay or Insurance pay:
Consult phone book for “Home Health Services” Other Listings: Fairfield Medical Center
Request private nursing list.
Day-Hab Providers
- Samaritan Center – (740-687-1921)
- Fairfield Center for Independence - (740-653-5501)
- Hope Center - (740-653-7100)
- A Creative Journey - (740-652-5191)
- Learning Never Ends - (740-785-5876)
Mental Health: New Horizons Youth & Family Center
Fairfield Mental Health Consumer Group
Mid Ohio Psychological Services
Integrated Services
Independent Living Skills
Independent living skills should be assessed and ongoing training provided and supported in all venues of life (home, school, etc.). These should be a major focus of the IEP development:
Medication administration Record keeping
Grooming Advocacy skills
Food preparation Employment skills
Purchasing Social activities
Laundry Finances
Housekeeping Transportation
Home maintenance
Though a majority of independent living skills will be developed at home and school here are other community settings that may further support efforts: Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)
Epic Futures is a transition curriculum for young adults with disabilities ages 16-24 who are no longer in high school. The eight session series takes participants through the process of transition emphasizing the following topics: My Abilities, Skills to Be Your Best, Budgeting, Planning for the Future, Internet Safety and Scam Awareness, Work Ethics, Job Hunting Skills, and Assistance in the Workplace. The Epic Futures material can be adjusted to meet the needs of the audience. Contact Scott Campbell at 740-689-1494 for more information and to schedule the series.
Community Action
OSU Extension
Fairfield County Library
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)
Reality House
(Job and Family Services – Child Protection Services)
Independent Living Skills Apps
Overcoming Obstacles Life Skills Program
this app includes 180 hours of activities to make life skills more concrete written in lesson plan form. This app is for middle school and high school children. Use this app in a variety of settings to teach skills, take notes and track data for children.
Price: Free Device: iPad
InPromptu
InPromptu was designed to help individuals with significant intellectual disabilities learn activities of daily living, including employment skills. There are several pre- made videos included in categories such as cleaning, cooking, eating/drinking and personal hygiene. The videos are broken down into single steps and can be watched over and over before moving on to the next step. The best part of this app is the ability to customize videos/pictures from your own camera roll to teach any skill you'd like. Price: Free Device: iPhone, iPad
Community Participation
Start to assess activities of interest. Look in your community for natural venues so you can meet people with similar interests.
Metro Park - www.metroparks.net YMCA – Lancaster - www.ymcalancaster.org
People Helping People Scholarships available.
YMCA – Canal Winchester - www.ymcacolumbus.org
Lancaster Park and Recreation - www.lancasterparks.com
Pickerington Park and Recreation
https://www.ci.pickerington.oh.us/departments/parks-recreation/
Hocking Hills - https://www.explorehockinghills.com/ (800-HOCKING) Franklin Park Adventure Center - www.columbusrecparks.com/
Adaptive Sports Connection - https://adaptivesportsconnection.org/
Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living - www.socil.org
- Develops Independent Living Plans to address community
participation.
- Adaptive Sports Program
Hocking County Guide
Transition from School to Community
If your child is on an IEP and is 13 years of age, it is now time to start thinking about the transition from school to community. At age 14, your IEP team should begin to include your child. Between age 14 and 16, the team will begin discussing transition and writing goals with this in mind. You can begin working now to move forward on other aspects of daily living: income, employment, health coverage, and other support services. It’s never too early to make plans for your child’s future. Here are some recommendations:
Finances/Income
To get Social Security Children’s benefits, a child must have:
- A parent(s) who is disabled or retired and entitled to Social Security
benefits; or
- A parent who died after having worked long enough in a job where he or
she paid Social Security taxes. The child also must be:
- Unmarried;
- Younger than 18;
- 18-19 years old and a full-time student (no higher than grade 12); or 18 or
older and disabled. (The disability must have started before age 22.) Another type of benefit is Supplemental Security Income (SSI). SSI makes monthly payments to people with low income and limited resources who are 65 or older, or blind or disabled. Your child under age 18 can qualify if he or she meets Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and if his or her income and resources fall within the eligibility limits. Prior to attainment of age 18, the parent(s) income is also considered when determining eligibility.
Health Care/Insurance
If your child is covered under your medical insurance, check with the company to see AT WHAT AGE your child will no longer be covered. Coverage may end at a certain age or when they leave school. One problem with losing SSI at age 18 (or when leaving school) is that you may also lose MEDICAID. If your child requires uninterrupted medical coverage, you may not want to allow their Medicaid to lapse, and may want to ensure their adult Social Security application is completed six months before then. Apply for the Ohio Home Care Waiver through South Central Ohio Job & Family Services if your child either needs assistance to live independently or needs services like home health care, accessibility, nursing care, and respite. The Affordable Care Act provides new funding to state Medicaid programs that choose to cover preventive services for patients at little or no cost. It also prohibits discrimination due to pre-existing conditions. The law also eliminates
the ability of insurance companies to charge higher rates due to gender or health status. There are also tax credits available for low income families. Americans who earn less than 13% of the poverty level are eligible to enroll in Medicaid. For more information visit www.healthcare.gov.
Employment
A referral to the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD) can be made two years prior to exiting school. If you have goals related to employment, make sure OOD is invited to your IEP meetings. Employment services available at the Jobs One Stop include: WIA Youth Program, Job search, Job Club, Resume writing assistance, etc. South Central Job and Family Services - http://scojfs.org/services/ohio-means- jobs/index.html 389 W. Front St., Logan, OH 43138
Employment First Initiative – www.ohioemploymentfirst.org
Ohio Department of Education – Career Pathways –
http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Career-Tech/Career-Connections/Career-
Pathways
DD Board (Developmental Disabilities)
Once your child becomes eligible for the Hocking County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DD), you may request a Medicaid wavier. Medicaid waivers can pay for services like homemaker/personal care, medical equipment, accessibility changes, or respite. The Medicaid card comes with the waiver so services such as nursing care may be covered as well. There are three types of waivers that can be accessed through the Hocking County Board of DD: the Individual Options Wavier (or IO Wavier), Level One Wavier and Self Waiver. Because wavier slots are limited, your child’s name may go on a waiting list for a waiver. Request a Support Services Administrator (SSA) to assist you through this process. Your child’s SSA can provide service coordination and also link you to community resources that may benefit your child. The Hocking County Board of DD also offers Family Assistance Programs which covers items and services needed by the family to maintain the child within the home, and is available as long as the child is living with family.
Mental Health
If your child or adolescent receives case management they will NOT necessarily qualify for case management as an adult. You may want to begin the conversation now about who will follow your child. If your child may need to see a psychiatrist, remember there is often a waiting list for that service. Contact SOCIL (740-689-1494) for linkage to agencies.
Transportation
Your child can, with your help, learn to use public transit independently. Contact Logan Public Transit at 740-385-6999 to apply for Disability Discount Card. If your child receives services through OOD they may help with the cost of driver education. If there are any questions about your child’s ability to drive, it is usually a medical doctor who makes the final decision. Drivers training and vehicle modification assessments are available at OSU - Dodd Hall at 614-293-3833 for an hourly fee. Refer to page 27 of this guide for transportation options.
Financial Skills
OSU Extension offers several kinds of budgeting education. The Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL) offers basic finance class. If you have access to a computer, there are a number of online resources that teach financial skills, including “Practical Money Skills,” “Money Pals: Being Cool with Cash,” and “I Know Where I’m Going (But Will My Cash Keep Up?)” If you search online for FDIC Money Smart, you can find a “free, award-winning financial education program created to help adults develop money-management skills.” And one version is a self-paced computer program!
Facts Regarding Your Child’s Status
At 18 years a child becomes an adult and can legally make their own decisions. Upon 22-year birth date a child must exit school. Private health insurance ceases to cover a child at 25 years based on school status. Waiting lists for housing and other supports have waiting time of years.
Gateways to Benefits
Social Security Office
Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) benefits for adults disabled since childhood: The SSDI program pays benefits to adults who have a disability that began before they became 22 years old. This SSDI benefit is considered as a “child’s” benefit because it is paid on a parent’s Social Security earnings record. For a disabled adult to become entitled to this “child” benefit, one of his or her parents:
- Must be receiving Social Security retirement or disability benefits; or
- Must have died and have worked long enough under Social Security.
These benefits also are payable to an adult who received dependents benefits on a parent’s Social Security earnings record prior to age 18, if he or she is disabled at age 18. The disability decision is made using the disability rules for adults. SSDI disabled adult “child” benefits continue as long as the individual remains disabled. A child does not need to have worked to get these benefits. Supplemental Security Income (SSI) payments for children with disabilities: SSI makes monthly payments to people with low income and limited resources who are 65 or older, or blind or disabled. A child under age 18 can qualify if he or she meets Social Security’s definition of disability for children, and if his or her income and resources fall within the eligibility limits. The amount of the SSI payment is different from one state to another because some states add to the SSI payment. Your local Social Security office can tell you more about your state’s total SSI payment. How Social Security Decides if You have a Disability: 1. If you are not working or if you are working and making less than $1,130 a month. 2. If your condition significantly limits your ability to do basic work-related activities, such as lifting, standing, walking, sitting, or remembering – for at least 12 months. 3. If your condition is found in the list of disabling conditions? For each of the major body systems, Social Security maintains a list of medical conditions that they consider severe enough that it prevents a person from doing substantial gainful activity.
4. Can you do the work you did previously? Do your medical impairment(s) prevent you from performing any of your past work? 5. Can you do any other type of work? If you can’t do the work you did in the past, we look to see if there is other work you could do despite your medical impairment(s). Also considered are medical conditions, age, education, past work experience, and any transferable skills. If you can’t do other work, we’ll decide you are disabled. If you can do other work, we’ll decide that you don’t have a qualifying disability and your claim will be denied.
Medicare
www.medicare.gov or www.cms.gov Medicare is a health insurance program for: people age 65 or older, people under age 65 with certain disabilities, and people of all ages with End-Stage Renal Disease (permanent kidney failure requiring dialysis or a kidney transplant).
Medicare Part D & Extra Help
Medicare beneficiaries can apply for Extra Help with their Medicare Part D prescription drug coverage. Eligibility requirements have changed, some things no longer count as income and resources.
- Life insurance policies no longer count as a resource
- Help you receive regularly from someone else to pay your household
expenses—food, mortgage, rent, heating fuel or gas, electricity, water, and property taxes; no longer count as income Go to www.socialsecurity.gov to see all eligibility requirements.
Gateway to Apply:
Fairfield County 1-877-841-5712
252 Venture Place
Lancaster Ohio 43130
Online at https://www.ssa.gov/
South Central Ohio Job and Family Services The adult services unit determines eligibility for Medicaid, food stamps, assistance with Medicare expenses, and disability assistance for disabled adults with no minor children in the home and for aged individuals. Determines eligibility for passport and waiver services as well as Medicaid for nursing home residents. JFS staff may also act as an SSI advocate to guide a disabled person through the Social Security system in an effort to get benefits approved.
- Medicaid
Medicaid is health insurance that helps many people who can't afford medical care pay for some or all of their medical bills. Medicaid is available only to people with limited income. You must meet certain requirements in order to be eligible for Medicaid. Medicaid does not pay money to you; instead, it sends payments directly to your health care providers.
- Home and Community Based Services
Waivers
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/citizen-
programs-and-initiatives/hcbs/hcbs Home and Community Based Services Waivers provide alternatives to institutional long-term care. Without waivers many consumers would live in a hospital, nursing home, or Institutional Care Facility for the Mentally
Retarded (ICF/MR)
- Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities
https://medicaid.ohio.gov/families-and-individuals/citizen-programs-
and-initiatives/medicaid-buy-in-for-workers-with-disabilities The Medicaid Buy-In for Workers with Disabilities (MBIWD) program allows individuals with disabilities who are working to qualify for Medicaid with higher income and resource limits, and buy into Medicaid by paying a reasonable premium based on income. Ohioans between the ages of 16 and 64 with a disability (as defined by the Social Security Administration) who are earning up to 250 percent of the Federal Poverty Level are eligible. Individuals with higher incomes should still apply because income disregards, deductions, credits, and work expenses are considered in determining financial eligibility. Gateway to apply for these benefits and more: South Central Ohio Job and Family Services (855-726-5237) or (740-385-5663) 389 W. Front Street, P.O. Box 548, Logan, Ohio 43138
Hocking County Department of Health
www.hockingcountyhealthdepartment.com
Bureau of Children with Medical Handicaps (BCMH): Children who are 0-21 years of age, permanent residents of Ohio, under the care of a BCMH approved doctor, and who have or may have a chronic medical condition are eligible for the program. Financial eligibility is required for the Treatment Program only. 350 St. Rt. 664 North
Logan, Ohio 43138
Benefits Analysis
Provides assistance to those who want to become or stay employed by determining how benefits will be affected by earned income. The goal is to enable individuals to maximize their current or potential benefits from sources such as Social Security, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, and others while becoming or staying employed
Benefit Consultant Referrals per Hocking County Board of DD
Disability Benefits 101
Gives you tools and information on health coverage, benefits and employment. You can plan ahead and learn how work and benefits go together.
Additional Resources: Ohio Benefits
Use this site to manage or apply for healthcare, childcare, food and cash benefits.
Benefits Check Up
Find benefits programs that help pay for prescription drugs, health care, rent, utilities, and other needs.
Hocking County Family & Children First Council
www.co.hocking.oh.us/familyandchildren/
The council is designed to assist families and agencies in the coordination of services for our youth.
Gateways to Employment
Logan-Hocking Schools
Logan Hocking School System offers an employment education program for eligible high school students during school hours.
Director of Special Education Carrie Cook-Porter
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)
(740-592-4411) or (800-248-4378) The Bureau of Vocational Rehabilitation (BVR) and Bureau of Services for the Visually Impaired (BSVI) help people with disabilities get or keep a job. The Division of Disability Determination (DDD) determines eligibility for Social Security disability benefits or Supplemental Security Income.
South Central Ohio Jobs and Family Services (SCOJFS) Jobs One-Stop
Job Seekers Services: Job seekers will receive services from professionally trained and courteous staff. Services include; information on careers and trends, listings of job openings, career counseling, employment seminars, resume preparation, job club, GED instruction, computer classes, and much more. WIA Youth: A program facilitated through The Hocking County Job Service Center for youth 14 -21 years. One of the goals for the younger youth population is school retention to prevent dropout. All youth applicants must meet federally established financial and barriers to success in order to qualify. This training program better prepares teens for job placement and long-term career success. Specifically, it provides assessments in academic skills and assistance in improving them as well as job readiness skills through: Contact South Central Ohio Jobs and Family Services to apply: 475 Western Avenue, Suite B
Chillicothe OH 45601
Tri-County Adult Career Center
Offers job seeking skills training, employability assessment and training, specialized skills training, certificate programs, continuing education courses, and workshops to assist adults in upgrading or retaining job skills. A representative will be on-site as needed to conduct job seeking skill classes. Contact: Business and Industry Coordinator 15676 State Route 691
Nelsonville, Ohio 45764 Hocking Valley Industries
https://hockingvalleyindustries.com/
Paid work experiences through a variety of assembly, packaging and collating contracts in a supported work environment. Services include various evaluations and assessment, job seeking skills training, on-the-job training opportunities and employment at area cleaning contract worksites. 66 East Hunter Street
Logan, Ohio 43138
Goodwill Industries of Southern Ohio, Inc. Goodwill employs individuals to assist with sorting, cleaning, hanging and pricing of donated clothing and wares. To be eligible for services you must be 18 years or older and be a waiver recipient. 36 Hocking Mall
Logan, Ohio 43138
Integrated Services of Appalachian Ohio
Offers job seeking skills training, job placement and job coaching services. The primary customer base for this organization is obtained through referrals made by the Ohio Rehabilitation Services Commission (BVR/BSVI). A staff person will be on-site at Hocking County Job Services Center on an as needed basis. 33 West Second Street, Logan
Apps for Employment:
Job Interview App
This app contains 6 preparation videos, 5 video questions, 5 video answer and 5 video advice/mentor. Download 90 more videos from inside the app. Now with over 250 flip card questions in different categories: General, Accounting, Finance, Sales, Engineering and Difficult. Each question has a hint if you tap the card. The app also has job interview checklists for you to make sure you have remembered everything. Finally take the job interview quiz to see if you are prepared. Price: Free Device: iPhone and iPad
ShowMeQR
This app creates task specific instructions (video and text) and embeds them into (and prints) proprietary ShowMeQR codes. Think of it as a personal assistant. ShowMeQR creates and prints QR codes that can be placed on (or near) objects. After scanning a ShowMeQR code, instructional videos and /or written instructions are presented. If the user needs immediate assistance, pressing the help button summons. ShowMeQR actually requires two different apps. One app, ShowMeQR Manager, creates the QR code and the second app, ShowMeQR Scanner reads the QR code. ShowMeQR Manager cost $9.99. ShowMeQR Scanner cost $2.99. Device: iPhone, iPad, Android
Post-Secondary Schooling Hocking College
(740-753-3591 or 877-462-5464)
Ohio University
Ohio University-Lancaster
https://www.ohio.edu/lancaster
(740-654-6711 or 740-681-3311)
Wright State University
Ohio Department of Education - College Credit Plus
http://education.ohio.gov/Topics/Ohio-Education-Options/College-Credit-Plus
College Credit Plus can help you earn college and high school credits at the same time by taking college courses from community colleges or universities. The purpose of this program is to promote rigorous academic pursuits and to provide a wide variety of options to college-ready students.
Other Colleges and Universities
Consult websites based on academic interest. Visit https://www.princetonreview.com/college-rankings/best-colleges?ceid=nav- es-1 for college rankings & evaluations Visit www.FastWeb.com to search for available scholarships & financial aid
Accredited Online Schools -
http://www.accreditedschoolsonline.org/resources/best-accredited-colleges-
schools-for-students-with-disabilities/ For college options for students with intellectual disabilities visit:
Support Devices & Apps
PaperPort Notes allows users to express ideas in whatever manner they are most comfortable with. Notes can be created by keyboarding, writing with a finger or stylus, using speech to text or a combination of all three. The app supports image insertion into the note as well as attaching audio recorded using the device's microphone. Text can be highlighted for greater emphasis and read back using the text-to-speech function to ensure accuracy. Take a photo of a page of text from a book, newspaper or letter and have it converted into an editable note almost instantly. DNotes are automatically converted to PDF and can be sent using Dropbox, Google Docs, email, iTunes, or printed. Indexing notes and creating folders isn't an option; however, there is a bookmarking and search function that keep work from getting lost on a virtual desktop.
Price: Free Device: iPad
Smartpen is a high-tech writing tool that records spoken words and synchronizes them with notes users write on special paper. A student can record everything a teacher says and later replay any part of a lecture by tapping the pen's tip on words written throughout the class. The Echo and Pulse from Livescribe are among the most popular smartpens. The cost starts at $99 and the pens can be found online or at retail stores. Smartpens require special paper that Livescribe sells in notebook form for $7.00 and has to be purchased at www.livescribe.com Contact SOCIL (740-689-1494) to tryout the Livescribe Echo on site.
Assistive Technology
Assistive Technology and Accessible Educational Materials
Center
The Assistive Technology Center at OCALI features resources, supports (including assistive technology assessments), professional development and a short-term lending library to assist in the effective implementation of assistive technologies for persons with disabilities.
Assistive Technology of Ohio (AT Ohio)
https://atohio.engineering.osu.edu/
AT Ohio offers training and demonstrations on the use of devices, equipment or services that assist individuals with disabilities to function independently at home, school or work. AT Ohio has a device lending library and computer refurbishing program where individuals with disabilities can receive a refurbished computer for $60.
Supporting Services Job Accommodation Network
Designed to increase the employability of people with disabilities by: 1) providing individualized worksite accommodations solutions, 2) providing technical assistance regarding the ADA and other disability related legislation, and 3) educating callers about self-employment options.
National Center for Learning Disabilities
Successful transition to college for students with learning disabilities.
College Financial Aid
- School guidance counselors are the best local source of information.
- Federal student aid applications must be submitted by June 30th of the
high school senior year. Corrections via the internet are due by September 15th. More information can be obtained at the federal aid website www.studentaid.gov or call 1-800-433-3243.
- Individual schools will have their own deadlines for assistance. Students
need to be certain to get their applications completed and mailed in on time to be considered for financial aid. Remember that the due date could be the date that the application is received or it could be the date that the application is processed. Be sure you ask. If the due date is the date of the application is processed it would need to be to the school before that date.
- State of Ohio student aid applications should be applied for prior to the
start of the student’s senior year. The Ohio Department of Higher Education’s email hotline is hotline@highered.ohio.gov or go to their website at www.highered.ohio.gov
- For a list of scholarships available based on student’s disability, contact
SOCIL at 740-689-1494.
- Other information may be found at:
https://www.collegescholarships.org/financial-aid/
Asset Development
Three Myths Regarding People with Disabilities and Asset Development 1. People with disabilities are unable to work. TRUTH: Work produces income which is the first step towards saving and building assets. 2. People with disabilities have all their needs met by their special programs. TRUTH: People with disabilities want to reduce their reliance on government benefits and have more freedom and independence. 3. People with disabilities can’t be expected to save and build assets. TRUTH: People with disabilities want a better economic future. They are starting businesses and becoming homeowners. The best ways to begin building assets: 1) Go to work. People receiving Social Security benefits should meet with their local:
- Work Incentives Planning and Assistance (WIPA) representative in
order to understand how working and saving may impact their benefits. Also contact WIPA to better understand how to utilize certain tools such as a Plan for Achieving Self-Sufficiency (PASS) or Medicaid Buy-In in order to achieve your financial goals. Your WIPA representative is at the COVA office at 1-877-521-2682. 2) Develop a savings account.
- Contact your local banker or credit union to establish a cost free savings
account. 3) Develop a STABLE account (www.stableaccount.com) A STABLE Account is an investment account available to eligible individuals with disabilities allowing them to save and invest money without losing eligibility for Medicaid, SSI, or SSDI. Funds in a STABLE account are not subject to tax as long as the funds are spent on “Qualified Disability Expenses”. STABLE accounts have some similar features to normal bank accounts, but they are not checking or savings accounts. STABLE accounts are investment accounts, similar to 529 college savings accounts or 401k retirement accounts. When you deposit money into your STABLE account, your money will be invested in different options that you choose. While you can still withdraw and spend your money whenever you need it, STABLE accounts also allow you to grow your money and to save long-term for disability expenses. With a STABLE account you can get a STABLE Card which is a loadable prepaid debit card. The STABLE card does not pull money directly out of your STABLE account; instead you get to choose a specific amount of money to load onto your card. This way, you can better control budgets and plan for your Qualified Disability Expenses. If you are a parent or other authorized legal representative for a loved one’s STABLE account, you can also request a companion card for
that individual. The STABLE card’s discrete loading feature allows you to limit how much money your loved one can access at any given time. You can use your STABLE card to spend money anywhere MasterCard is accepted. Although it is a loadable card, it works just like a regular debit card. There are qualifying expenses for the STABLE account, however, it can be used for expenses besides “qualifying expenses” but it will count as taxable income and there is an additional 10% tax. For more information visit the STABLE website listed above. 4) Look at other ways to supplement income: Earned Income Tax Credit (EITC): The EITC is the largest federal support program for low-income individuals and families. The EITC is a refundable credit. What this means is that if you qualify based on your income, even when you have no tax liability, you will receive a tax refund. You must file your taxes to receive this refund, even if you do not have any tax liability. For more information please visit the following website https://www.irs.gov/credits- deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-credit
- The EITC has no effect on certain welfare benefits. In most cases,
EITC payments will not be used to determine eligibility for Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income (SSI), food stamps, low-income housing or most Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) payments. FIVE MYTHS OF THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT (EITC)
- You have to be married or have children to be eligible. FALSE
- You have to owe taxes to be eligible. FALSE
- You do not have to file to get your tax refund. FALSE
- The EITC refund will impact my other public benefits. FALSE
- You cannot be self-employed and receive the EITC. FALSE
- Questions about qualifying for the EITC
https://www.irs.gov/credits-deductions/individuals/earned-income-tax-
credit To learn whether an individual is eligible for the Earned Income Tax Credit they can access the link above and answer some questions and provide basic income information. The program will also assist in determining correct filing status, determining whether child(ren) meet the tests for a qualifying child, and estimate the amount of credit an individual may receive.
Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) Program: The VITA Program offers free tax help to low- to moderate-income (generally, $42,000 and below) people who cannot prepare their own tax returns. Certified volunteers sponsored by various organizations receive training to help prepare basic tax returns in communities across the country. VITA sites are generally located at community and neighborhood centers, libraries, schools, shopping malls, and other convenient locations. Most locations also offer free electronic filing. To locate the nearest VITA site, call 1-888-227-7669, Visit
https://www.irs.gov/individuals/free-tax-return-preparation-for-you-
by-volunteers or:
Contact your local United Way office
5) Expand Your Financial Literacy Skills: Money Smart Financial Literacy Curriculum The Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, better known as the FDIC, created the Money Smart Curriculum to help youth and adults outside the financial mainstream enhance their money skills and create positive banking relationships. How Money Smart Are You? Review the FDIC Money Smart website at
https://www.fdic.gov/consumer-resource-center/money-smart
VISA Financial Literacy Soccer Game: The National Disability Institute worked with Visa to launch Financial Soccer. Financial Soccer is a fast-paced, multiple-choice question game, testing players' knowledge of financial management skills as they advance down field, and try to score goals. The game is available in SOCIL loan library – contact SOCIL – 740-689-1494
Or if you prefer football go to
https://www.practicalmoneyskills.com/play/financial_football . You can play as your favorite NFL team. There are easy, medium and difficult questions. The more difficult the question the more yardage you get on the play if the question is answered correctly.
Residential Options
Hocking Metropolitan Housing Authority
Helps low-income families and individuals in Hocking County obtain suitable and affordable housing through the Housing Choice Voucher Program, a long-term rental assistance program. An individual that receives a Voucher rents a home on the private market (owned by someone other than the Housing Authority). On this program you are responsible to locate your own rental unit. The rent that the household is responsible for is based on a percentage of the income for the entire household. The Housing Authority will pay the remainder of the rent directly to the landlord.
- To be placed on the waiting list for assistance you must complete a
pre-application. 33601 Pine Ridge Drive
Logan, Ohio 43138
Subsidized Apartments (for persons with disabilities and seniors) Rent based on 30% of adjusted annual income. For a listing of these apartments contact: Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living 740-689-1494
Group Homes
Contact Hocking County Board of Developmental Disabilities 1369 East Front St
Logan, Ohio 43138
Residential State Supplement (RSS)
Residential State Supplement (RSS) provides a monetary supplement to adults with disabilities 18 years or older who meet eligibility requirements. The supplement, along with the consumer's income, pays for an approved living arrangement. RSS participants must live in a certified Adult Foster Home, licensed Adult Family Home, licensed Adult Group Home, licensed Residential Care Facility, certified Community Mental Health Housing or licensed Mental Health Residential Facility or Nursing Home.
Dormitory
Contact the Disability Services Department of the college you are planning to attend to insure accessibility needs are met.
Additional Resources Housing Locator
Free online rental housing locator that allows visitors to search for affordable, accessible rental housing statewide. Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)
Assistance on identifying home modifications to increase accessibility. Our goal is to assist people with disabilities to live with the maximum degree of independence in their community.
Day Placement
Hocking Valley Industries
https://hockingvalleyindustries.com/
66 E. Hunter Street
Logan, Ohio 43138
The adult day supports component of the program focus on the development of communication, self-care, social skills, and recreations pursuits through a structured work environment, daily modules, non-vocational habilitation, and a skilled art program.
Non-Vocation:
Individuals can participate in various non-paid daily activities while building skills through components of HAB or Modules. Services include daily themed options of music, exercise, arts and crafts, living skills, and specific interests, as well as options to join the Can Do Creations art program and or participation in the extra activities and events outside of HVI’s facilities.
Can Do Creations:
This art program operated at Hocking Valley Industries provides a supportive environment for adult artists to pursue their interests in the visual arts; and the opportunity to express themselves through all types of art medium of their choice. Can Do Creations is a five day per week program.
Expanding YOUR Horizons (EYH)
Expanding YOUR Horizons is your provider of unique and exciting services for adults with developmental disabilities. We offer recreational, leisure and educational activities for adults in community settings. We are committed to meeting your individualized needs. EYH will promote your self-esteem self- determination, independence, and community inclusion. Join us on events like: Sporting Events, Tours, Concerts, Activities (movies, dances, parties) and more. The Sech-Kar Company – Hocking Hills Day Activity Center
http://www.sechkar.com/hocking-hills/
1395 West Hunter Street
Logan, Ohio 43138
Services are designed to provide support in the area of personal care, to reinforce skills needed to participate in community living, to provide training in self-determination, to develop social relationships, and to engage individuals in therapeutic activities. Some of the activities offered include: seasonal arts and crafts, computer skill building, bowling outings, Wii activities, wood working, outings and nature walks, cooking and holiday parties.
Hours: Monday – Friday 9am – 2pm
Legal Issues/Advocacy
Guardianship
A child automatically becomes their own legal guardian upon age 18 years. Any court intervention to alter this status takes approximately 3 months. There are new rules impacting guardianship in Ohio effective June 1, 2015. The new rules require training, monitoring and background checks and say that guardians must meet with their wards at least every three months. For details on the guardianship processes go to:
Disability Rights Ohio
Alternatives to Guardianship
Guardianship is a serious step that interferes with many or all of the legal interests and rights of the person with a disability. Rethink the need for guardianship in its traditional purpose and assist people to find the assistance they need in making decisions and managing their lives using the same resources available to all community members. Reject the idea that because a person has an intellectual or physical disability, he or she is automatically incompetent and requires a guardian. Understand that all people receive assistance from family, friends and/or paid professionals when making major life decisions. Support people to put alternatives to guardianship in place, preferably prior to the need for such assistance:
- Representative Payeeship: If the only significant income an individual
receives is a monthly Supplemental Security Income check, it may not be necessary for the person to have a guardian of the estate. A representative payee may be able to handle relevant financial matters for the person.
- Power of Attorney: Signed by a competent person, it authorizes another
person to act on his or her behalf in certain acts and/or certain periods of time.
- Trust: In a trust, a trustee holds and manages money or property for the
benefit of the person. There have been changes in laws regulating trusts in recent years. This is a summary of those changes.
- Except for good cause shown or disqualification, the court must
appoint a guardian in accordance with the individual’s most recent guardian nomination in their Power of Attorney.
- In certain situations, a private settlement agreement can be used to
modify the terms of a trust without court involvement.
- A trustee can, under certain circumstances, distribute the assets of
one trust into another trust with substantially similar administrative provisions and beneficiaries. This practice is commonly referred to as trust decanting.
- When a beneficiary named in a trust dies before the
testator/grantor, and the testator/grantor does not clearly state the gift is invalid in such event, the gift will instead be distributed to the lineal descendants or the beneficiary, if the beneficiary was a grandparent, descendant of a grandparent or step-child of the testator/grantor.
- Conservatorship: A person who is mentally competent but has a
physical disability may ask a court to appoint a conservator to handle specific matters. If a person already has a guardian, make every effort to assure that the guardianship is limited and specific in scope. Review at least annually and request the guardianship be relinquished as soon as other supports are in place. When choosing a lawyer always make sure the lawyer is familiar with public policy as it pertains to persons with disabilities.
Disability Rights Ohio
DRS is the state protection and advocacy system for Ohioans with disabilities. If you think you have been abused or neglected, discriminated against, denied services or been unable to access public facilities, you should contact the DRS Intake Department.
Legal Aid of Southeast and Central Ohio (LASCO)
LASCO helps low-income individuals with civil legal problems in Fairfield and Hocking Counties, offices in Athens, Chillicothe, Newark Ohio.
Legal Clinic
(740- 687-0500 or Fairfield County 211) Free legal advice to income eligible individuals.
Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities
OCECD is a statewide, non-profit organization dedicated to advancing the educational interests of children with disabilities. They assist individuals or groups with such areas as:
- Public policy and school reform
- Identification of disabilities
- Early intervention for infants and preschoolers
- Family support systems
- Special education
- Community based services
- Information, referral and networking services
- Transition from high school to employment/college in the community
- Resources for professionals
- Team work between persons with disabilities, their families and service
providers
Ohio Center for Autism and Low Incidence (OCALI)
OCALI serves families, educators, and professionals working with students with autism and low-incidence disabilities, including autism spectrum disorders, multiple disabilities, orthopedic impairments, other health impairments, and traumatic brain injuries. OCALI's mission is to build state- and system-wide capacity to improve their outcomes through leadership, training and professional development, technical assistance, collaboration, and technology. They believe that families, as well as professionals, play a critical role in promoting the highest possible achievement of each child. To that end, they see connection and partnership with families as vital to the success of each individual at school and in the community.
Department of Education
Official site providing information on U.S. education, policy, research, grants, financial aid and more.
Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)
SOCIL offers a wide variety of services. Our goal is to assist people with disabilities to live with the maximum degree of independence in their community.
Hocking County Board of DD
State Support Team Region 16
Special Education Technical Assistance for: Hocking, Perry, Athens, Morgan, Washington, Monroe, Vinton, Jackson, Meigs, & Gallia Counties.
Transportation
Logan Public Transit
Hocking, Athens, Perry Community Action Program 1005 CIC Drive
Logan, Ohio 43138
https://hapcap.org/transportation/logan-public-transit/
(740-385-6999 or TTY 1-800-750-0750) Provides accessible curb to curb transit with-in Logan City limits. Discount rates available to persons with disabilities and elderly. You must apply for a discount card for these rates.
Go Bus
Provides services between Athens and Columbus with stops in Athens, Nelsonville, Logan, Lancaster and Columbus (including the Columbus Airport). Visit their website for schedule.
Adaptive Driver Training OSU
https://wexnermedical.osu.edu/physical-therapy-
rehabilitation/rehabilitation-driving
Offers driver training or vehicle modification assessment. Paid by insurance or private pay.
Vehicle Modifications
To purchase adaptive vehicles or to install adaptations to vehicle:
Key Mobility (937-374-3226)
Mobility Works (330-489-6666)
Fitzpatrick’s (800-545-1102)
Providers
Hocking County Board of Developmental Disabilities
- Contact your assigned Support Services Administrator for assistance in
locating a provider.
- If you do not have an SSA contact the DD Intake Coordinator
Consumers in the Ohio Home Care Program
This site provides a directory of providers in your area. It explains the various services available to the consumer. There are generally three types of home care providers:
- Agency Providers,
- Waiver Service Providers, and
- Non-Agency Providers.
Agency Providers are companies that have a provider agreement with the ODJFS and have been issued a Medicaid Provider Number. Agencies are the employer of the individuals performing the in-home services. Waiver Services Providers are companies that provide the additional services available only to Waiver consumers. The individuals that deliver meals, install emergency response systems, or etc. are employees of that business. Non-Agency providers are individuals that obtain a Medicaid Provider Number from the ODJFS. They are then eligible to provide home care services directly to the consumer. These individuals have signed a Medicaid Provider Agreement so they are self-employed.
Non-waiver consumers
State Plan Home Health Services: Less than 14 hours per week of nursing services, home health aide and skilled therapy. Consumer must have a Medicaid card. Contact Medicare certified home health agency (consult phone book). Private pay or Insurance pay: Consult phone book for “Home Health Services”
Mental Health:
Hopewell Health Center
541 State Route 664 North, Suite C
Logan, Ohio 43138
Behavioral Health Care Services
12896 Grey St
Logan, Ohio 43138
Independent Living Skills
Independent living skills should be assessed and ongoing training provided and supported in all venues of life (home, school, etc.). These should be a major focus of the IEP development:
Medication administration Record keeping
Grooming Advocacy skills
Food preparation Employment skills
Purchasing Social activities
Laundry Finances
Housekeeping Transportation
Home maintenance
Though a majority of independent living skills will be developed at home and school here are other community settings that may further support efforts: Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living (SOCIL)
Epic Futures is a transition curriculum for young adults with disabilities ages 16-24 who are no longer in high school. The eight session series takes participants through the process of transition emphasizing the following topics: My Abilities, Skills to Be Your Best, Budgeting, Planning for the Future, Internet Safety and Scam Awareness, Work Ethics, Job Hunting Skills, and Assistance in the Workplace. The Epic Futures material can be adjusted to meet the needs of the audience. Contact SOCIL at 740-689-1494 for more information and to schedule the series.
Abilities United (AU) SOCIL
AU is an advocacy group for individuals of all ages and all Abilities. Our mission is to empower individuals to focus on their Abilities. We offer peer support and instruction to members on how to be independent, to self- advocate and be active members of their community. Hocking, Athens, Perry Community Action Program (HAPCAP)
OSU Extension
Hocking County Library
OOD – Athens Regional Office
South Central Ohio Job and Family Services Children Services Unit
Independent Living Skills Apps
Overcoming Obstacles Life Skills Program
this app includes 180 hours of activities to make life skills more concrete written in lesson plan form. This app is for middle school and high school children. Use this app in a variety of settings to teach skills, take notes and track data for children. Price: Free Device: iPad
InPromptu
InPromptu was designed to help individuals with significant intellectual disabilities learn activities of daily living, including employment skills. There are several pre-made videos included in categories such as cleaning, cooking, eating/drinking and personal hygiene. The videos are broken down into single steps and can be watched over and over before moving on to the next step. The best part of this app is the ability to customize videos/pictures from your own camera roll to teach any skill you'd like. Price: Free Device: iPhone, iPad
Community Participation
Start to assess activities of interest. Look in your community for natural venues so you can meet people with similar interests.
Metro Park
Hocking Hills
800-HOCKING
https://www.explorehockinghills.com/
Logan Park and Recreation
Mingo Park Accessible Playground Franklin Park Adventure Center
Adaptive Sports Connection
https://adaptivesportsconnection.org/
Southeastern Ohio Center for Independent Living
- Develops Independent Living Plan to address community
participation.
- Adaptive Sports Programs
Additional websites to check out: