Speaker´s Bureau

Individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities often face many barriers in their lives. The Americans with Disabilities Act, passed in 1991, has assisted in removing many of the physical barriers. Now, it is the attitudinal barriers that are sometimes the most difficult to get past. The Stark MRDD Public Information, Community Education, and Volunteer Resources Department has made educating the Stark County community about the many ABILITIES of individuals with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities a top priority. It's about what people with disabilities CAN DO, not what they can't do.

Throughout the year, we speak to more than 100 different community groups, including schools, church groups, business and social organizations, emphasizing the abilities and human potential of all people, regardless of disabilities.

Stark MRDD's Abilities Awareness Program offers segments tailored for three different age groups; young children, elementary school classes and high school classes. This information helps young people to learn about the many abilities possessed by the individuals served by Stark MRDD. We also have a version of the program suitable for adults. To schedule a program, contact us at 330-479-7871 or 330-479-7872.

Our efforts have been recognized by many Ohio Public Images awards over the years for our Community Report, All in the Family newsletter, Special Events, Public Service Announcements, and our Abilities Awareness Program. Our media nominations also frequently win awards.

To schedule an Abilities Awareness Program, an agency speaker, or a tour of any of the seven Stark MRDD facilities, contact the Public Information Department at Whipple-Dale Centre, 330-477-5200

Volunteering

Volunteers have long been a part of the Stark MRDD program. More than 200 people volunteer their time weekly or participate in a number of one-day activities the Board sponsors including Special Olympics and field trips.

Stark MRDD requires volunteers to go through an application process, which includes a thorough background check and personal references. It may seem difficult to become a volunteer with Stark MRDD, but we want the very best for the individuals we serve, including the very best in volunteers. If you are interested in volunteering with Stark MRDD, please contact the Volunteer Resources Coordinator at 330-479-7871.

Special Events

Stark MRDD participates in many community programs, including the annual Football Hall of Fame parade.

Another way that Stark MRDD works at removing attitudinal barriers is by sponsoring a variety of community special events each year. We assist the individuals we serve in becoming active in our community alongside their typical peers.

Some of the yearly events we sponsor include The Great Pumpkin Run/Walk, Camp Jukebox Summer Camp with VSA Arts Stark County; and many other community events in partnership with the The Repository. Community events are important activities to the individuals served by Stark MRDD as they provide a direct connection to the community in which they live, work, and play.

Please visit our calendar page for the dates and times of 2008 special events.

ANSWERS TO YOUR QUESTIONS

The Public Information, Community Education, and Volunteer Resources Department also serves as the initial contact to questions regarding the Board or MRDD and all of its programs. Our primary focus is educating the public about the abilities of people with disabilities. Stark MRDD is dedicated to fostering positive public awareness about people with mental retardation and other developmental disabilities. Please call us at 330-479-7872 if you would like additional information on the awareness programs and services provided by our Public Information/Community Education/Volunteer Resources Department.

VIDEO PUBLIC SERVICE ANNOUNCEMENTS