Empowering Ohioans with disabilities through employment, disability determinations & independence. Social media terms/conditions at https://nitter.cf/t.co/uaQHxfOuxa.
Columbus, Ohio
Joined February 2011
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- Following1.4K
- Followers5.1K
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Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Ohioans with disabilities bring valuable skills, perspectives, & talents to workplaces statewide. #NDEAM is an opportunity to celebrate those contributions & continue building pathways to meaningful careers. Proud of the work @OhioOOD & our partners are doing this month.
Talent deserves opportunity. 💼
For #NDEAM, @OOD_Director Kevin Miller reflects on progress, partnership, & the disability-inclusive hiring events connecting job seekers and employers across Ohio this month.
Watch our 2026 NDEAM video now! 🎥
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Disability etiquette matters. Small choices in how we communicate and interact can help create workplaces and communities where people with disabilities feel respected and included. @OhioOOD's #TipTuesday series offers practical guidance we can all put into action
#TipTuesday: Good communication doesn't require eye contact! 👀
Some people make eye contact; others don't. Avoid assuming someone who looks away isn't listening or engaged.
If eye contact is uncomfortable for you, you can try looking toward someone's eyebrows or ears instead.
ALT Two men wearing jackets laugh together in a park. One uses a wheelchair. Text, "Disability Etiquette Tips." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
A first job is an important step toward confidence, independence, and a rewarding career. I'm proud of the young Ohioans with disabilities who took that step this summer with @OhioOOD's Summer Youth Work Experience, and the employers who gave them the opportunity to grow.
Nearly 3,000 students + 1,800 worksites = a summer of opportunity! ☀️
Through OOD's Summer Youth Work Experience (SYWE) program, students with disabilities ages 14-21 earned a paycheck, explored careers, & built job skills all across Ohio.
➡️ bit.ly/4qMos99
ALT Left: Abigayle Howard wearing a headset and using a coffee machine to make a drink at Grizzly Bean Coffee House. Right: JD Smesko pushing a shopping cart full of items at Meijer, preparing to do take backs. Center text, "Summer Youth Work Experience 2026." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
The partnership between @OhioOOD's #AccessibleOhio program and the North Fairfield Improvement Group shows what's possible when communities come together to create spaces where everyone can connect outdoors
#Accessibility starts in the community! 💚
Our #AccessibleOhio program partnered with the North Fairfield Improvement Group to make a local park more accessible through disability-inclusive paths, accessible play features, & thoughtful design.
🎥: bit.ly/4hEE6Rn
ALT Accessible playground equipment. A sign stands in the foreground, welcoming people to the park. Text, "Accessible Ohio. North Fairfield Improvement Group." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Ohio is at its best when everyone can experience all our great state has to offer. That's why @OhioOOD is partnering with the @OhioStateFair to expand accessibility. #DollarsandData
ALT Infographic "Dollars and Data: Ohio State Fair, July 29 to August 9, 2026, Expanding Accessibility," outlines key accessibility services and features. Navigation Support, icon of a person walking while using a cane; American Sign Language Interpretation, icon of signing hands, check daily schedule for interpreted events; Accessible Shuttles, icon of a bus; and Mobility Supports, a wheelchair accessibility icon. Stopwatch icon indicates Sensory-Friendly Day on July 30, from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Photo on right of a smiling woman conversing at a fair with a man using a wheelchair. Partially overtop is a white box with a blue icon of a hand holding a dollar sign and the text "Accessible Ohio, supported by $2 million for FY 2026–2027, provides no-cost accessibility consultations to Ohio venues and attractions, including large events like the Ohio State Fair." Bottom right is the logo for the State of Ohio, "Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities" and the "Office of Budget and Management.”
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Creating opportunities for Ohioans with disabilities strengthens our workforce, communities, & state. I'm thankful for the opportunity I had to highlight the important work @OhioOOD & @GovMikeDeWine are stewarding to expand employment, accessibility, & independence across Ohio.
ICYMI: @OOD_Director Kevin Miller joined @10TV's @DougPetcash on Face the State to discuss employment, accessibility, and how OOD helps Ohioans with disabilities achieve their goals and greater independence.
Director Miller’s interview begins at 14:22. ➡️ bit.ly/3T9bLbu
ALT Screenshot: 10TV News Anchor Doug Petcash interviews OOD Director Miller on the June 28 edition of "Face the State." Text, "Creating Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities." 10TV News Face the State logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Annette's journey reminds us that investing in talent and removing barriers can create a lasting impact for individuals, families, and communities. I'm proud to celebrate her accomplishments and grateful for the example she sets for future generations of entrepreneurs.
Nearly 30 years ago, Annette Lutz entered OOD's Business Enterprise (BE) program seeking opportunity. Today, she's a successful entrepreneur, mentor, advocate, & leader helping shape the future for business owners who are blind in Ohio.
Read her story: ➡️ bit.ly/3SA0yAG
ALT Annette Lutz. Text, "Blind people can do anything we put our minds to as long as we have the opportunity and the accessibility to do so. Annette Lutz." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
I'm grateful for the professionals in the @OhioOOD Division of Disability Determination. The compassion and commitment of these dedicated public servants help change lives every day. Thank you for all you do.
During #NationalDisabilityProfessionalsWeek, we recognize the dedicated professionals who help support Ohioans with disabilities.
Last year, our Division of Disability Determination processed more than 151,00 claims.
🎥 Watch this special message: bit.ly/4xrG1Oy
ALT OOD Director Kevin Miller and Kimberlyn Price, Deputy Director, OOD Division of Disability Determination. OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Ohio is proud to be a Disability Inclusion State, and that commitment extends to one of our favorite traditions: the @OhioStateFair. We thank the Fair, @OhioOOD, and all the partners who come together every year to support the Fair's accessibility needs.
The 2026 @OhioStateFair is next month! 🎡
Watch our video to learn about accessible shuttles, ASL interpretation, sensory-friendly experiences, power mobility charging, universal changing stations, & more.
Start planning your #OhioStateFair visit!
🎥 bit.ly/4xcGa8I
ALT Governor Mike DeWine, First Lady Fran DeWine, OOD staff, and others at the Ohio State Fair. Text, "A Fair for Everyone!" OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Ohio is committed to improving accessibility for everyone. I'm proud to see the partnership between @OhioDevelopment, @ODOT_Statewide, & @OhioOOD is helping to create welcoming rest areas while supporting meaningful employment for Ohioans who are legally blind.
Many vending machine locations at Ohio rest areas are operated by small business owners who are legally blind through OOD's Business Enterprise program!
In Marion? Check out the new space completed last year in partnership with @ODOT_Statewide, @OhioDevelopment, & @GovMikeDeWine.
ALT Vending machines at the Marion rest stop.
ALT Vending machines at the Marion rest stop.
ALT Universal changing station at the Marion rest stop.
ALT Universal changing station at the Marion rest stop.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
I'm proud to see the impact of @OhioOOD's #AccessibleOhio team bringing people together to advance sensory inclusion across our state. Events like this are made possible through strong partnerships and help ensure Ohio's community spaces are welcoming and accessible for all.
On April 2, the #AccessibleOhio (AO) team held its Northwest Regional Event on Sensory Inclusion in Ohio’s Community Spaces, uniting stakeholders committed to making Ohio more accessible for everyone.
Thanks to @ToledoMuseum for hosting the event. Attendees gained valuable information on practical strategies for creating welcoming environments for all using sensory kits, sensory spaces, sensory hours and events, sensory maps, and social narratives. 💪
A huge thank you to everyone who joined and contributed to this event! Together, we're making strides toward a more accessible Ohio.
ALT From left to right: Brianna Seth, Accessible Ohio Specialist; Shelly Burkhart, Accessible Ohio Specialist; and Katie Shelley, Conda Family Manager of Access Initiatives, Toledo Museum of Art; Katie Shelley welcomes participants to the Accessible Ohio Northwest Regional Event at the Toledo Museum of Art.
ALT Shelly Burkhart, Accessible Ohio Specialist, talks with workshop participants at the sensory maps table during the guided discussion.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
I am proud to join my son Connor to amplify this meaningful message from @OhioOOD for Autism Acceptance Month. Listening, learning, and creating spaces where every Ohioan is understood, valued, and included is essential to building stronger communities.
April is #AutismAcceptanceMonth! We're proud to share a special message featuring @OOD_Director Kevin Miller and his son, Connor Miller. ❤️
Together, they highlight "10 Things to Know This Autism Acceptance Month," focusing on the importance of acceptance, disability inclusion, listening to the voices of people with autism, and recognizing the strengths each individual brings.
Their conversation is a powerful reminder that:
Communication can look different. 🌟
Kindness matters. 🌟
True acceptance means creating a world where everyone belongs. 🌟
Watch and share our 2026 Autism Acceptance Month video, and join us in building a more disability-inclusive future today.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Stories like Wesley's are why our work at @OhioOOD matters. Through programs like Works4Me, Ohioans with disabilities are building skills and achieving meaningful employment. We're proud to support pathways that lead to independence and opportunity.
Wesley Demond Arnett loves to work—and it shows. ❤️
From cleaning tables to keeping things running smoothly, he loves and takes pride in every part of his job at McDonald's.
Through the Works4Me program, Wesley explored a community job experience, built confidence, and proved he was ready for more. With support from his team, including OOD Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor Brian Collins, and Lott Industries Job Coach Laurie Fountain, he applied, got hired, and is now earning what he proudly calls “big money”—the biggest paychecks he’s ever received. 🙌
OOD is collaborating with @DODDohio (DODD), other state agencies, and local entities to ensure Works4Me empowers adults with disabilities to successfully complete activities resulting in competitive integrated employment.
In honor of #DevelopmentalDisabilitiesAwarenessMonth, watch Wesley's story today and see what's possible when opportunity meets purpose and determination. 📹
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Understanding disability benefits is critical for families planning for the future. This @OhioOOD #OODWorks podcast episode features @SocialSecurity experts explaining key differences between SSDI and SSI and what parents should know as children approach adulthood.
April is #SocialSecurityMonth, and we're getting ready for it early here at OOD! 💼
Understanding disability benefits can make a big difference for families navigating the future.
In Episode 59 of the #OODWorks podcast, experts from the Social Security Administration (SSA) explain what parents need to know about Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) and Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for children.
The episode covers:
✅ Key differences between SSDI and SSI
✅ What happens to benefits at age 18
✅ How income or in-kind support may affect payments
✅ Tips to prevent overpayments
✅ How to manage your benefits
These topics connect directly to the work of OOD's Division of Disability Determination, which partners with the SSA to determine medical eligibility for disability benefits for Ohioans.
Listen to the full episode now to learn more: ➡️ bit.ly/3P1KQMT
ALT Top: Robert Fenn. Bottom: Brandon Smith. Four disability icons. Text, "OOD Works." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Through our Peer Navigator program, @OhioOOD is turning confidence into careers—equipping participants with paid experience, real skills, and pathways to meaningful work. Success stories like Ruby's and Megan's show what's possible when opportunity meets support.
What happens when lived experience meets opportunity? Confidence grows. Careers begin. Communities strengthen. 🌟
OOD's Peer Navigator program equips participants with hands-on work experience while supporting others who are navigating their own employment journeys.
Launched in 2023, the program connects OOD participants with paid, intermittent roles where they support counselors, assist with administrative tasks, and provide customer service—all while building valuable job skills.
For Ruby Gibbons, the program rebuilt her confidence after a traumatic brain injury changed her career path. Today, she works at @ClevelandClinic Mercy Hospital as a Patient Guest Services Assistant, affectionately known as the "Red Coats" team, helping patients every day.
For Megan Newsome, the program felt like a "trial run" that led to a full-time Customer Support Specialist role at OOD—serving the very community she's proud to be part of. In her role, Megan spends her time triaging phone calls and entering medical information into OOD’s data management system.
The Peer Navigator program creates space to:
✅ Learn new skills
✅ Explore career paths
✅ Build independence
✅ Gain confidence
✅ Support others with shared experience
Interested in reading both Ruby and Megan's full stories? Check out our most recent newsletter: ➡️ bit.ly/4qOl381
Visit OODWorks.com to get started today. If you're already receiving services from OOD, talk with your counselor about Peer Navigator opportunities.
#OODWorks
ALT Left: Ruby Gibbons. Text, "Ruby Gibbons. I met with participants who really appreciated that I was a participant myself." Right: Megan Newsome. Text, "I'm helping out MY community, giving back, and it's special. Megan Newsome." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
We’re proud to see Ohio investing in people and potential through initiatives like @LtGovJimTressel’s #WorkOhio—where @OhioOOD plays a role. Together, we’re building stronger pathways to employment by equipping job seekers with tools, coaching, and guidance to thrive.
📰 ICYMI: Ohio is launching a new initiative to help job seekers across our state.
@LtGovJimTressel recently announced WorkOhio, a program designed to provide personalized support to Ohioans navigating the job market by connecting individuals with coaching, resources, and tools to explore careers, build skills, and find meaningful employment.
Read more about the launch and how it can support your employment journey today. ➡️ bit.ly/4ajUjY1
ALT Ohio Lieutenant Governor Jim Tressel speaks at a podium. 8 individuals watch.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
At @OhioOOD, we're proud to support Devan's journey as he pursues his academic and career goals in theater. His successes highlight the power of partnership, perseverance, and OOD resources like @OhioC2C that help students with disabilities thrive in higher education and beyond.
Meet Devan Beadle! In December 2025, Devan earned his associate's degree from @OwensCC and continued his studies at @UToledo, pursuing his dream of becoming a theater instructor and one day opening his own space. 🎭
As an individual with autism and severe sensory processing challenges, navigating higher education and career planning hasn't been easy. But Devan didn't do it alone. In January 2024, he connected with @OhioC2C, an OOD resource that supports Ohio students with disabilities in completing degrees, earning credentials, and meeting workforce demands.
With a strong team in his corner, Devan has excelled in his educational journey. He has actively participated in nearly every school play and was recently honored with the Trio Award, recognizing his exceptional achievements in education.
Congrats, Devan! 🙌
Read his full story in our most recent newsletter: ➡️ bit.ly/4a9bhHh
#OODWorks
ALT Devan Beadle stands in front of the Eiffel Tower. Text, "I take pride in working hard. Devan Beadle." Ohio College2Careers logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
HB 144 (Keith's Law) reflects Ohio's shared commitment to accessibility & emergency preparedness. Please take a moment to read our @OhioOOD newsletter, listen to the #OODWorks podcast episode, & share how this law supports Ohioans with disabilities & first responders alike.
In the latest OOD Works podcast, we sit down with Representatives Brian Lorenz and Gary Click, along with Keith Jesse, whose lived experience inspired House Bill 144—Keith's Law. 🎙️
This episode explores:
✅ The story behind the law.
✅ How advocacy led to change.
✅ How House Bill 144 supports Ohioans with disabilities during emergencies.
🆕 Now available: Ohioans with disabilities can voluntarily complete the House Bill 144 Disability Verification Form, creating a secure statewide record to help first responders better prepare before arriving on the scene.
Get the full story, podcast links, and resources in our recent newsletter: ➡️ bit.ly/3ZBinzs
ALT Pictured from left to right: Janae Myers, Legislative Aide for Rep. Click; Rep. Gary Click; Keith Jesse, proponent for the bill and for whom Keith’s Law is named; Governor DeWine; Brendan Garret, proponent for the bill; Rep. Brian Lorenz; Julia Garrett, proponent for the bill; and Ben Nettles, Former Legislative Aide for Rep. Click. Text, "OOD Works." OOD logo.
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
I'm proud of the progress we made at @OhioOOD in 2025 & even more excited about 2026. Ensuring Ohioans with disabilities can thrive remains at the heart of our work.
Reflecting on 2025. Looking ahead to 2026. ❤️
Hear from OOD team members in our latest video as they share the moments that mattered most last year—and what's next as we continue expanding opportunity, accessibility, and employment for Ohioans with disabilities.
Watch now and see how we're moving forward together! 🎥
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities retweeted
Proud of the work @OhioOOD accomplished this year! From expanding access to services to empowering thousands of Ohioans with disabilities to reach their career and independence goals, 2025 was a year of meaningful impact.
Our 2025 impact is here! ❤️
As we wrap up 2025, we're proud to share how OOD helped transform futures across the state.
✨ 46,064 Ohioans received Vocational Rehabilitation services— 3,722 more than last year!
✨ Our Division of Disability Determination (DDD) processed 151,580 claims, exceeding federal targets by 2,469.
📽️ Watch our Year-in-Review video and join us as we continue empowering Ohioans with disabilities in 2026!
#OODWorks