SYNERGY CONFERENCE INFORMATION October 5-7, 2016

Conference registration includes morning coffee/tea, lunches, games on Wednesday evening, the SYNERGY networking event on Thursday evening and conference materials.

Contact Hours: Conference sessions provide valuable training for staff, families and people with developmental disabilities. Participants can choose from 33 sessions providing the

opportunity to receive up to 18.5 contact hours of training.

Certification ~ Continuing Education Units Dodd certification has been approved. A link will be sent to attendees after the conference to obtain the evaluations and certificates for the sessions.

Social Work certification is being offered for the approved sessions. Attendees requesting certification are required to “sign in” for CEU’s during approved session. Social Work certificates will be mailed after the conference. For more information on certification, refer to the “pink” form in your registration packet. Nursing certification will not be available.

Silent Auction: Items include autographed memorabilia, sport items, restaurant gift certificates, hotel stays, themed gift baskets, arts & crafts, jewelry, lottery tickets and so much more! The auction ends at 12:30 PM on Friday. Everyone can participate! Attendance is not required to win, however it is helpful if you have someone at the auction to pay and pick up your items - credit cards, checks and cash are accepted. Join in on the bidding!

Vendors: A variety of vendors will be exhibiting Wed-Fri. Browse through informational brochures, crafts, artwork, metal sculptures, jewelry, greeting cards, table runners, ceramics and other amazing items for sale. Punch cards will be available for attendees to visit vendors and become eligible for a daily drawing to win a prize. This is a great time to network and gain additional resources.

Creative Art Activity ~ Wednesday 7:00 PM, located in the ballroom - Limited to the first 40 people! Hosts: Ashley Pierce & Lynnmarie Landwei-Phillips

The Newlywed and Dating Games ~ Wednesday 8:00 PM, located in the ballroom - Everyone welcome! Hosts: Sharon Travis & Nancy Richards Do you really know your partner? Do you want to go on a date? Do you want to show how much you know about your partner? Do you want to make a new friend? If this sounds like fun, come join us for a new twist on our dating game!!! We will be playing 2 versions this year for couples that are already together “The Newlywed Game” and for those wanting to meet someone new “The Dating Game” wi ll be back. There will be a lot of laughing, music and an all-around great time. After being asked a series of questions, contestants may win a chance for a $50 gift card to Max and Erma’s. Come and have a great time!

Networking Event ~ Thursday evening 5:45 PM to 11:00 PM, located in the ballroom Activities include: Corn hole, DJ, dancing, games and networking with others. Also available is a Pop Star Photo Booth - "it's a networking party in a booth"!!!...Includes fun props and unlimited photo sessions. Munchies include pizza, meatballs, finger sandwiches, chicken tenders, chips & salsa and cake. Join the fun & make new friends! (Thank you to Bob Casey for DJ’ing the event again this year!)

Max & Erma’s Fundraiser ~ Pick up a flyer from the SYNERGY registration desk for Max & Erma’s fundraiser, which provides 20% of sales to support the SYNERGY Conference. The 20% fundraiser ticket will be honored all day on Tuesday upon arrival and Thursday.

Embassy Suites Hotel Manager’s Reception ~ A manager’s reception is hosted by the hotel each evening in the atrium area of the hotel. They offer free drinks and munchies from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm. This is a great place to meet others from all over Ohio.

SYNERGY would like to thank attendees, presenters, advertisers, sponsors & exhibitors of the conference.

“SAVE THE DATE” for the 2017 SYNERGY Conference October 4-6, at the Embassy Suites Hotel in Dublin, OH

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Synergy Conference 2016

Welcome all! This is the 6th annual event in which Professionals, Advocates, Resources (PAR) and Ohio Self Determination Association (OSDA) are partnering together to provide an experience like no other in Ohio; a one of a kind opportunity for people from different locations and backgrounds to join together, share their stories, network with colleagues, and form lasting friendships. Synergy is a great place to learn from one another and it offers opportunities for everyone to present on panel sessions and share their knowledge and life experiences with others.

With the changes happening across Ohio and in the system, we feel there needed to be a place that is NOT about politics, but about energizing people and creating excitement about their jobs, lives and abilities to make change. Often covering topics you may not hear about at other conferences, Synergy is always packed with great sessions and we hope you find them helpful. We branched out even further this year and have secured national speakers for sessions on “Step up to Quality” in an effort to reach people in the early childhood arena . As always, we strive to make the conference as rewarding and enjoyable as possible. Please keep these tips in mind throughout your Synergy experience to hopefully make it even more rewarding and enjoyable: *Be open to meeting new people and introduce yourself to others at your table and throughout the event. *Share new things you learn from speakers and from others around you…knowledge is powerful. *Join in the evening activities whether that is the networking event, Newlywed & Dating game, movie night, happy hour or just meeting your friends for dinner or a swim at the pool; this is the time to relax and have fun. *Finally, we want to make people feel welcome, as we believe Synergy is not just about who you are or what you do, but also about being at a place where there are no boundaries and where everyone is equal!

CONDENSED CONFERENCE SCHEDULE

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 www.synergyohio.org 7:45 am to 8:45 am REGISTRATION

8:45 AM – 9:45 AM 1 hour

Keynote Presentation #132 - Against All Odds Megan Rothermel

10:00 AM – 12.00 PM 2 hours

#103 - How to be Awesome! Brittany Coon Willie Jones Pete Moore

#111 - Understanding Human Trafficking when Working with People with Intellectual Disabilities

Steve Mentrek Pat Stephens

Awards Luncheon in the ballroom

12:15 PM to 1:30 PM

1:45 PM - 3:45 PM 2 hours

#107 - Creative Transportation Albert Johnson

Barry Kuzmickas Mary Lombardo

#110 - Partnering for Community Connections

John Ryan Burnett Rebecca Burnett

Sue Huston Heather Voisard

#114 - Reducing Stress by Embracing the Mess

Nancy Jane Smith

#118 - Medicaid and Home and Community-Based Services

Kim Donica Lori Horvath

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4:00 PM - 5:00 PM 1 hour

#101 - "I Have a Great Life... or so They Tell Me"

Joshua Chappell Pennie Chappell Kelly Ferenbaugh

Jennifer Loy Natashia Schlairet

Cindi Strawser

#108 - You Don't Need to Have a Title to be a Leader/Motivator

Steve Oster Kari Smith

Sarah Zimmerman

#120 - Get Out There and Do Your Thing!

Julie McComas

#130 - Speak up Session on TRANSPORTATION

Mindy Garverick

Hospitality Manager’s Reception 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM located in the hotel atrium

7:00 PM - 9:00 PM 2 hours

MOVIE: #125 - Movie: The Mighty hosted by Chanda Busse

7:00 PM Creative Art Activity hosted by Ashley Pierce & Lynnmarie Landwei-Phillips

8:00 PM The Newlywed and Dating Games hosted by Sharon Travis & Nancy Richards

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2016 7:30 am to 8:30 am REGISTRATION

8:30 AM - 10:30 AM 2 hours

Keynote Presentation #128 - Avenue to the Experience… Jo Mascorro

10:45 AM - 11:45 AM 1 hour

#102 - TIPS for you! How to Engage in a Presentation or

Meeting Diana Mairose,

Marcella Straughter

#116 - Innovative Care for Individuals with Dementia

Diane Ramey

#127 - Direction of Community Housing in Ohio Jacalyn Slemmer

#129 - A Piece of the Puzzle - Juvenile Court Seeks the "Right Fit" for DD Youth

Linda Tucci Teodosio

Awards Luncheon in the ballroom

12:00 PM to 1:15 PM

1:30 PM - 3:30 PM 2 hours

#115 - Treatment for Sex Offenders with ID/DD in the

Community Phil Florian

Michael Kontura

#119 - Managing Emotional Mayhem

Larry Slocum

#124 - Behind the Autism Diagnosis - Understanding, Accepting and Embracing

Neurodiversity Matthew Wilson

#133 - Please Don't Tell Me What To Do

Theresa Vernon

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3:45 PM - 4:45 PM 1 hour

#106 - How to Choose a Provider Leah Dalton

Jennifer Krzynowek Kelly Petty

#109 - Living a Balanced Life: An Introduction to Holistic Health

Lindi McGaughy

#122 - Moving from a Culture of Caregiving to Community Building

Ray Schmidt

#123 - Building a Community for All - The Central Ohio and

Columbus Diversity Explosion Nelson Hewitt

Hospitality Manager’s Reception 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM located in the hotel atrium

7:00 PM - 8:30 PM 1.5 hours

MOVIE: #126 - The Memory Keeper's Daughter hosted by Mindy Garverick

Networking Event 5:45 PM to 11:00 PM in the ballroom

A BIG thank you to Bob Casey for DJ’ing the event and Thom Dodak for the photo booth fun!

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2016 8:00 am to 9:00 am REGISTRATION

9:00 AM - 11:00 AM 2 hours

#104 - Are We Dating or Just Friends? A Guide to Different

Types of Intimacy Mary Sentelle

#105 - New and Emerging Technology

John Blair Julia Wolff

#117 - Guardians, Human Rights Committee and Individual Rights

Heidi Davidson Derek Graham

#131 - Employment Partners: Community Employment Success

Susan Folk Jennifer Kuntz Lauren Strawn

11:15 AM - 12:15 PM 1 hour

#112 - Multi Agency Person Centered Planning for Transition Youth

Suzanne Beck

#113 - Effective Strategies for People with Disabilities to Address Bullying

Shawn Dunaway Heidi Hackworth

#121 - Difference Makers DRIVE Change: You Got the Power

Jessi Hutson Scott Osterfeld

Lunch in the atrium at 12:15 PM

Closing of silent auction 12:30 PM

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WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 SYNERGY CONFERENCE 2016 8:45 AM 1 hour www.synergyohio.org

Against All Odds (132) Megan, a young woman with Down Syndrome, recounts the trials and triumphs of her remarkable journey through life in a small town and beyond. Supported by her loving, resourceful parents, she learned the skills she needed to self-advocate and achieve her goals. Megan's successes in the face of medical issues and preconceived assumptions about her capabilities are truly inspiring to those with and without disabilities. Megan Rothermel, Inspirational Speaker

10:00 AM 2 hours

How to be Awesome! (103) We all have the potential to be awesome, but we may not consistently show people how awesome we are. During this session participants will be introduced to the 5 steps to Awesomeness. Participants will learn to celebrate themselves and others while gaining some practical and easy to use tools. This session will motivate you to take control of your awesomeness and share it with others! Brittany Coon, Service & Support Administrator Knox County Board of DD William Jones, Positive Culture Coordinator, Ohio Association of County Boards of DD Peter Moore, Chief of Staff, Ohio Association of County Boards of DD

Understanding Human Trafficking when Working with People with Intellectual Disabilities (111) This session will educate people on current legislation, The Safe Harbor Act and the In Demand Act. The speakers will share powerful stories of people who have experienced human trafficking, how we can recognize the signs that this is occurring and how to support someone if they are experiencing human trafficking. Attendees will take away a better understanding of what human trafficking is and the prevalence that is occurring in the developmental disabilities population, as well as the general population. A new fact sheet has been developed by the coalition in conjunction with DODD, which will be shared. A palm card with facts can be shared with Service and Support Administrators, other DD professionals, and law enforcement in your area. Steve Mentrek, Executive Director, SuperSchade's Foundation Pat Stephens, Director of Community Supports, Lucas County Board of DD

1:45 PM 2 hours

Creative Transportation (107) Great, I have a job, but can't get to work! Learn about creative and alternative ideas for transportation, including public transportation and Uber. Don't be frustrated by being stuck at home, Explore options to help you become connected. Albert Johnson, Travel Coordinator, Cuyahoga County Board of DD Barry Kuzmickas, Manager of Community Alternative Transportation, Cuyahoga County Board of DD Mary Lombardo, Community Travel Program Supervisor, Cuyahoga County Board of DD

Partnering for Community Connections (110) Through 1:1 discovery assessments, group volunteer opportunities, weekly events calendars and the local AKTION Club, Darke DD and their Community First Department has teamed up with local ADS (Adult Day Services) & HPC (Homemaker/Personal Care Services) providers to coordinate volunteer and community engagement opportunities. This presentation will include the Darke DD Community Connections Coordinator, various providers and individuals receiving services in a panel discussion on the partnership that have teamed up, the structure with which it runs and the benefits of teaming together to make Darke County a better community. This will be an interactive presentation that will allow for questions! John Ryan Burnett, Darke County Board of DD Rebecca Burnett, Darke County Board of DD Sue Huston, Community Connections Coordinator, Darke County Board of DD Heather Voisard, Director, Person Centered Services

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Reducing Stress by Embracing the Mess (114) We KNOW that stress is bad for us. We KNOW that stress increases anxiety and decreases productivity. We also know what to do about it. This is not your typical reducing stress talk. In this session, the speaker gets to the heart of WHY we aren’t engaging in stress-reducing activities (it’s not because we don’t know what they are) and what we can do about it. The go-go-go mentality is an epidemic in our culture and this topic will provide a fresh “outside the box” method that works. Nancy Jane Smith, Licensed Professional Counselor, Live Happier Counseling

Medicaid and Home and Community-Based Services (118) In this session participants will learn about Medicaid financial eligibility rules and processes. Additionally, information about home and community based waiver services administered by the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities will be shared. Attendees will hear the latest news in both of these areas. Kim Donica, Chief, Bureau of Long Term Care, Ohio Department of Medicaid Lori Horvath, Deputy Director, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities

4:00 PM 1 hour

"I Have a Great Life...or so They Tell Me" (101) Nobody’s life is perfect, but what if some changes could make it better? Most people make the changes and move on. However, some of us can’t make simple changes without agreement from a team. So, what happens if you feel your TEAM is broken or disconnected? Well, good news, there are simple tips for re-building your team so you will be on the road to a great life in no time! In this session, you will meet a person and his team who have faced some challenges, overcome them and drastically changed a life in the process. Now HE says he has a great life! Joshua Chappell, Knox County Board of DD Pennie Chappell, RCS, Mt. Vernon Developmental Center Kelly Ferenbaugh, Person Centered Facilitator, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Jennifer Loy, Operation Director, ViaQuest, Inc. Natashia Schlairet, Program Manager, ViaQuest, Inc. Cindi Strawser, Service and Support Administrator, Knox County Board of DD

You Don't Need to Have a Title to be a Leader/Motivator (108) This interactive session will identify the differences between leadership styles and types of motivation. It does not matter what you do for an agency; only YOU have the ability to make a change! This session will include activities, videos and real life stories. Become the kind of leader people would follow voluntarily, even if you have no title or position. Motivation is a key to successful leadership. Steve Oster, Superintendent, Knox County Board of DD Kari Smith, Superintendent, Huron County Board of DD Sarah Zimmerman, Superintendent, Sandusky County Board of DD

Get Out There and Do Your Thing! (120) Everyone has something wonderful to contribute to the world, and work is one of the ways we bring our best to the community around us. We all have gifts, talents, skills, and personalities that can be discovered and explored, but sometimes we face tough barriers to finding a job that is the right fit. People may tell us that we aren't ready to work. We might not be sure of what we are good at. We may need a bit of support to head in the right direction. In this session we will talk about what is possible, not about what we can't do. We will discuss the best ways to figure out what we are great at doing, and how to connect with people and businesses in the community so that we can find the right jobs. Julie McComas, Consultant and Executive Director, Prorequisite Consulting, Griffin Hammis Associates and The Altitude Initiative

Speak up Session on TRANSPORTATION (130) Now is the time to share your transportation struggles and how they interfere with your life, such as working, participating in community activities or having a social life. Come prepared to speak up, and we will be prepared to listen and take action. We will document your challenges and develop a transportation PATH. This valuable information will be used to start a dialogue with the Ohio Department of DD to find solutions. DODD Administrators have been invited to this session to hear FROM YOU. Mindy Garverick, Director of Project Management, Dynamic Pathways, Inc.

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7:00 PM 2 hours

Movie: The Mighty (125) With his loving and supportive mother (Sharon Stone), 13-year-old Kevin (Kieran Culkin) moves in next door to another teen, Maxwell. Though both have problems that label them as outcasts, Kevin and Maxwell discover that by proudly combining their strengths and uniting as one, they can overcome their individual limitations and triumph over any adversity! This movie tells the story of a strong friendship between a young boy with Morquio's syndrome and an older boy who is always bullied because of his size. Adapted from the novel, Freak the Mighty, the film explores a building of trust and friendship. Kevin, an intelligent guy helps out Maxwell to improve his reading skills. In return, Kevin wants Maxwell to take him out places since he is not allowed out unauthorized. Being the social outcasts of the town, Kevin and Maxwell come to realize that they are similar to each other and accept that they are "freaks" and nothing will stop them. Chanda Busse, Community Services Director, Muskingum County Board of DD

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2016

8:30 AM 2 hours

Avenue to the Experience…Points to Ponder When Working with Individuals Who Experience from Mild/Moderate, to Severe/Profound Disabilities (128)

This presentation will provide specific strategies and the do’s and don'ts, when working with individuals who experience disabilities. Techniques will include responding to challenging behavior demonstrations, teaching functional skills, transition planning, points to ponder when teaching independent living skills, and participating in community-based instruction. Jo Mascorro, Consultant for Education, Independent Consultant

10:45 AM 1 hour

TIPS for you! How to Engage in a Presentation or Meeting (102) This session will provide information on how to include ALL people while presenting at a meeting. You will learn how to step up and be in charge and not have to take the back seat. This session will empower you to have your voice heard. Diana Mairose, Advocacy Support Advisor, Hamilton County DD Services Marcella Straughter, Franklin County Board of DD

Innovative Care for Individuals with Dementia (116) This session will assist with understanding the aging process and Down Syndrome, with a focus on Alzheimer's. The speaker will review Alzheimer's Disease, behaviors and innovative ways to overcome related behaviors. As people get older, this session is a must to give you all the latest information. Diane Ramey, Chief of Long Term Care, Ohio District 5 Area Agency on Aging

Direction of Community Housing in Ohio (127) The presenter will share the direction of community housing in Ohio and what issues will need to be resolved to provide individuals with an array of housing choices. Housing may be difficult in your community, but this presentation will give you insight on problems and things you can do to advocate for change. Jacalyn Slemmer, Executive Director, Disability Housing Network

A Piece of the Puzzle - Juvenile Court Seeks the "Right Fit" for DD Youth (129) The Summit County Juvenile Court recognizes the number of youth with developmental disabilities being referred to the juvenile justice system is increasing. When a youth is identified as having a developmental disability or cognitive delay, he or she would be referred to a program developed and implemented by Judge Linda Tucci Teodosio. Judge Teodosio knows that the disability may interfere with an individual’s ability to participate in his or her own defense. The program is called New Paths and it was the first such initiative in the State of Ohio to develop a dedicated docket and accommodate these youth. One of the unique elements of New Paths is the singular scope of service. Once identified as a special needs child, the New Paths Court Officer will act as primary liaison between the family and the Court. The New Paths officer will follow the family through the intake, assessment, adjudication, and supervision of the child. Having a single Court staff person promotes consistency and continuity of care. There are many

THE NEWLYWED & DATING GAMES 8:00 PM Everyone is welcome! Located in the ballroom

CREATIVE ART ACTIVITY 7:00 PM Make-n-take an art project home!

Limited to the first 40 people! Located in the ballroom

Located in the ballroom

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facets of the New Paths program that are essential to assuring these services and policies are properly applied which will be outlined during the presentation. Linda Tucci Teodosio, Judge, Summit County Juvenile Court

1:30 PM 2 hours

Treatment for Sex Offenders with ID/DD in the Community (115) This session will explore treatment for those who struggle with sexual offending issues. What do we do when a consumer confides in us about what happened, and it turns into a confession? You will hear both from professionals as well as those going through treatment and/or completed treatment about the ways they have been able to regain their independence in the community. How do County Boards support individuals with ID/DD who have been adjudicated as a sex offender and are returning to the community? This question will also be explored in this session. Phil Florian, Forensic Liaison, Cuyahoga County Board of DD Michael Kontura, Forensic Liaison, Cuyahoga County Board of DD

Managing Emotional Mayhem (119) Stumped by what someone's behavior is trying to tell you? The goal of this workshop is for participants to understand how to coach children through upsetting situations, rather than dismissing or distracting children when they are experiencing strong emotions. The methods taught in this session have been developed with a basis in extensive brain research, which affirms that when we become aware of our emotions and identify a specific feeling, it results in our ability to understand their messages and to learn how to regulate their impact. Participants will go back to their place of work with a renewed perspective on how to help children when they are upset. Larry Slocum, Conscious Discipline Certified Instructor, Conscious Discipline.com

Behind the Autism Diagnosis - Understanding, Accepting and Embracing Neurodiversity (124) This presentation takes a brief look at the history of the autism diagnosis in order to understand the human side of Autism. It will also explore some of the theories of autistic differences and use case studies to demonstrate the diversity of ways in which Autism is expressed and what families, institutions and people on the autism spectrum are doing to find confidence and success in young adulthood. Resources for transition and treatment will be provided. Matthew Wilson, Autism Coach and Consultant, mwilson autism

Please Don't Tell Me What to Do (133) We have good intentions all this time, certain that we knew what was best for people with disabilities. We really did mean well when we made most, if not all, the decisions about their lives; after all, we have an important job with a huge responsibility, and we have to take our work very seriously. We were afraid if we let go and relinquished our control and let people live their lives, they’d get hurt or something bad would happen, and we didn’t want to take any chances. The problem was, our approach was keeping people safe but not really happy, and somewhere along the way we might’ve gotten in the way of their dreams. Now that we’ve learned how to support people with Person Centered Planning and stepped back to give people control over their choices, truly amazing things are happening in peoples’ lives. They’re talking about their dreams, being introduced to new things, achieving outcomes, and experiencing life on their terms. In this session we’ll talk about outcomes of Person Centered Planning, where the power has been shifted toward self-direction, and we’ll share strategies and examples of how support staff has "stopped driving" and the person took the wheel. Life is so much better when we are able to make our own decisions. It may not always go perfectly, and things may not always go as planned, but we can adjust the course we’re on and make changes as needed, learning and growing together. Theresa Vernon, Program Initiative Director, Knox County Board of DD

3:45 PM 1 hour

How to Choose a Provider (106) What do I look for when selecting a provider? Learn helpful tips and information from staff at the Cuyahoga County Board of DD who are involved in this process. They will also provide updates on various tools available to parents and individuals when making these decisions, including "ProviderGuide Plus" and Red Treehouse. Leah Dalton, Housing and Placement Manager, Cuyahoga County Board of DD Jennifer Krzynowek, Provider Development & Quality Manager, Cuyahoga County Board of DD Kelly Petty, Superintendent & CEO, Cuyahoga County Board of DD

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Living a Balanced Life: An Introduction to Holistic Health (109) Family Nurse Practitioner Lindi McGaughy will encourage us to journey toward a healthy mind, body and spirit through holistic self-care. She will introduce holistic health and explore the development of a healthy immune system, nutrition, exercise, rest, stress, relationships, humor, and spirituality. An introduction to common complementary therapies will be presented, and participation will be welcome as Ms. McGaughy shares her experiences with aromatherapy. Lindi McGaughy, Family Nurse Practitioner, The Ohio State University College of Nursing

Moving from a Culture of Caregiving to Community Building (122) New goals from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services, as well as initiatives from the Department of Justice, are presenting new challenges for people with disabilities and their families. Although this is an exciting time, it's easy to be scared of the unknown. This presentation seeks to discuss some answers for people of all abilities as we try to respond to these challenges. Ray Schmidt, Director of Quality, Innovation & Planning, Fairfield County Board of DD

Building a Community for All - The Central Ohio and Columbus Diversity Explosion (123) Something has shifted in central Ohio, especially Columbus, and the word “community” is being redefined. New Americans and new central Ohio residents are leading this call for change. A change is in the air as new businesses and new communities spring into life. This session will explore the changes and the shifts in our perspectives that are required for “building a community for all”. We will address the question of, “how do we become culturally competent?” in Columbus to build a better city and region. Nelson Hewitt, Equal Opportunity Specialist, Community Relations Commission of the City of Columbus

7:00 PM 1.5 hours

Movie: The Memory Keeper's Daughter (126) A #1 New York Times bestseller by Kim Edwards. Dr. David Henry is forced to deliver his own twins, the first one perfectly healthy, but the second one is born with Down syndrome. Rationalizing it as a need to protect his wife, he makes a split second decision that will alter their lives forever. He asks his nurse to take the baby away to an institution and never to reveal the secret. Instead, she disappears to raise the child herself. The story unfolds over a quarter of a century-in which these two families, ignorant of each other, are yet bound by

the fateful decision made that winter night long ago. This movie explores every mother's silent fear: What would happen if you lost your child and she grew up without you? It is also an astonishing tale of love and how the mysterious ties that hold a family together help us survive the heartache that occurs when long-buried secrets are finally uncovered. Mindy Garverick, Director of Project Management, Dynamic Pathways, Inc.

FRIDAY, OCTOBER 7, 2016

9:00 AM 2 hours

Are We Dating or Just Friends? A Guide to Different Types of Intimacy (104) This speaker will discuss the informative and fun practice of how to meet people and interact in socially appropriate ways. This session will include manners, reading body language, the power of no, looking at different types of intimacy, including healthy safe sexual intimacy. Dating can be confusing or intimidating, but this session will help you feel more comfortable as relationships develop. Mary Sentelle, Consultant, Dynamic Pathways, Inc.

NETWORKING EVENT - 5:45 PM to 11:00 PM

Come join the food, fun and friends! Located in the ballroom

A special thank you to Jones Potato Chips for their ongoing support of donating chips to our annual

networking event!

www.joneschips.com Everyone Loves Jones Potato Chips!!!

A BIG thank you to Primary Solutions for

sponsoring the photo booth at the networking event!

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New and Emerging Technology (105) What are the latest technologies helping people with disabilities succeed in school, transition to work and live more independently? Join team members of the Cuyahoga County Board of DD as they explore the latest and greatest technology for people with developmental disabilities. The more information you have, the more powerful your life can be. John Blair, Assistive Technology Specialist, Cuyahoga County Board of DD Julia Wolff, Assistive Technology Specialist, Cuyahoga County Board of DD

Guardians, Human Rights Committee and Individual Rights (117) Guardianship and DODD behavior support rules changed in 2015. This presentation will highlight those changes. Training requirements for guardians and county board/provider Human Rights Committee members will be shared. The presenters will review requirements and considerations of all parties related to restricting the rights of individuals. Heidi Davidson, Office of Provider Standards & Review Manager, Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities Derek Graham, Esquire, Onda LaBuhn Rankin & Boggs

Employment Partners: Community Employment Success (131) Join Greenleaf Job Training Services for a look at what community employment can mean for individuals with disabilities. Hear from the Founder and CEO, Jennifer Kuntz, about challenges individuals have overcome to achieve community employment, in collaboration with a variety of partners. Jennifer will be joined by Greenleaf staff, individuals served, and other partners to lead a panel discussion of successful community employment experiences. Susan Folk, Executive Vice President, Greenleaf Job Training Services, Inc. Jennifer Kuntz, Founder & CEO, Greenleaf Job Training Services, Inc. Lauren Strawn, Lead Job Developer, Greenleaf Job Training Services, Inc.

11:15 AM 1 hour

Multi Agency Person Centered Planning for Transition Youth (112) As we move forward in Ohio with Employment and Community First, outreach and partnership with schools becomes a critical step to success. Common practices and planning across agencies for transition youth is a proven strategy to assist youth and families to be prepared and to achieve

greater adult success. OCALI, in partnership with DODD and stakeholders across Ohio, developed MAP to Employment as a strategic process to address transition planning with youth in multi-agency teams. MAP to Employment is an intensive cross-agency opportunity that focuses on the development of skills, practices and tools that agency partners can use for effective planning of education and transition services. This presentation will provide an overview of the Employment First Transition Framework planning tools and processes as well as information and data from the first year of the MAP to Employment sessions. Suzanne Beck, Project Coordinator, OCALI

Effective Strategies for People with Disabilities to Address Bullying (113) This presentation will take a comprehensive look at the complex issue of bullying. First-hand accounts as well as strategies will be explored, with an emphasis on tools and resources for the individual and professional. Don't be or become bullies; learn the tools to stand up for yourself. Shawn Dunaway, Service & Support Administrator, Delaware County Board of DD Heidi Hackworth, Service & Support Administrator, Delaware County Board of DD

Difference Makers DRIVE Change: You Got the Power (121) This presentation shares five key principles that “Difference Makers” embrace and practice to change the world around them. The lessons are inspired by Jessi Hutson, a young woman with Cerebral Palsy, who was adopted at the age of five months from Calcutta India and came to live in the United States. Jessi started her own business with the support of her friends who she calls the “Power Team.” Her organization is called “You Got the Power,” and she educates others about disability awareness and anti-bullying. She raises funds to build wheelchair ramps, provide accessibility equipment, and provide opportunities that help folks with disabilities gain greater access to the world around them. Jessi and her friend Scott will teach participants how to DRIVE change which is an acronym that stands for: D = Discover your passion R = Realize you have the power to change the world I = Invite others to join you on your journey V = Visualize a new reality E = Enjoy the Ride. Jessi won the 2016 Difference Maker Award given by the Duke Energy Children’s Museum Center for her work in the local community. Jessi Hutson, Community Outreach Assistant, Butler County Board of DD Scott Osterfeld, Community Connections Coordinator, Butler County Board of DD

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2016 SYNERGY CONFERENCE ~ Networking Opportunities

WEDNESDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2016 NEWLYWED & DATING GAMES – 8:00 PM

Everyone is welcome!

THURSDAY, OCTOBER 6, 2016 NETWORKING EVENT - 5:45 PM to 11:00 PM

Come join the food, fun and friends!

While you are at Synergy, be sure to take the time to Network with others. There are many opportunities to get to know others from across Ohio while attending the conference. What is so amazing about Synergy is that it is not a political conference, but a conference about learning, teaching, and networking to energize you! It is about pulling people together and giving everyone a chance to understand each other, to enjoy laughter, to make new friends and to expand your horizon on best practices.

Here are some ways to network while you are at the conference. First of all introduce yourself to people at your table while you are in sessions. As you move from one session to the next, switch tables so you can meet new people. During lunch pay attention to award winners and congratulate them on their success and talk about their success.

Head to the silent auction room and talk with others as you are looking for great gift for the holidays, for other special occasions or just for yourself. After leaving the silent auction room, head out to the vendors and chat with them about their companies or look at the products they are selling. It is guaranteed you will learn about new resources and make a connection that will help you in the future.

As the conference heads toward the evening, be sure to go to the Atrium to enjoy the Embassy Suites Hotel Manager’s Reception. There will be free snacks and drinks both nights, and it is a great way to meet others and have a great time. It is a casual event and a great way to unwind and chat with others.

The Newlywed & Dating Games on Wednesday evening is a fun way to talk to many people and watch individuals have fun. On Thursday night attend the Networking Event. Lifelong friends have been made at this event. You can enjoy team building events, corn hole, dancing, great food, and so much more. A good time by all happens every year at this event.

If you like a quieter venue to meet people, attend one of the movies that are being shown in the evening or go out with a few people to Max and Erma’s. If you do go, don’t forget to pick up a flyer since 20% of your food sales will be donated back to the Synergy Conference. Enjoy networking at the conference!

However you want to network, we hope that you take the opportunity at Synergy to meet many people and make many new friendships.

PAR & OSDA would like to thank all who support the annual Synergy Conference!

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Thank you to our “Friends” for their generous donation:

Mayla Ates, Randy Beach, Emma Cornell,

Dan & Cathy Brainard, Lisa Fuller-Grippi,

Debbi Hill, Dave Hudler, Anna Markley,

Dan Ohler, Steve Oster, &

Barb Sapharas

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A huge “THANK YOU” is extended to all of our sponsors. Without your on-going

support, Synergy would not be the successful networking and learning

opportunity that it has become!

To participants: If you see a sponsor while you are at the conference, please

thank them for their support.

We look forward to your continued partnership!

Adams County Board of DDAllen County Board of DDARC Industries Athens County Board of DDAuglaize County Board of DDBelmont County Board of DDBrown County Board of DDButler County Board of DDCarroll County Board of DDCenter for Disability ServicesChampaign County Board of DDClearwater COGClermont County Board of DDClinton County Board of DDConcepts in Community LivingCoshocton County Board of DDCreative Foundations CRSICuyahoga County Board of DDDarke County Board of DDDelaware County Board of DDErie County Board of DDFayette County Board of DDFranklin County Board of DD

Fulton County Board of DDGraceworks Enhanced LivingGreene County Board of DDGuernsey County Board of DDHamilton County Board of DDHancock County Board of DDHarrison County Board of DDHighland County Board of DDHocking County Board of DDHolmes County Board of DDHuron County Board of DDJackson County Board of DDKnox County Board of DDKoinonia EnterprisesLake County Board of DDLawrence County Board of DDLeeda Northeast, Inc. Licking County Board of DDLogan County Board of DDLucas County Board of DDMadison County Board of DDMahoning County Board of DDMarion County Board of DDMEORC

Thank you to the 2016 SYNERY Conference sponsors...

Mercer County Board of DDMiami County Board of DDMinamyer Residential Care ServicesMonroe County Board of DDMontgomery County Board of DDMorrow County Board of DDNoble County Board of DDNorth East Ohio NetworkNOWACOACBDDOhio Alliance of Direct Support ProfessionalsOhio DD CouncilOhio Superintendents AssociationOPRA Ottawa County Board of DDPaulding County Board of DDPerry County Board of DDPerson Centered Services, Inc.Pickaway County Board of DDPike County Board of DDPreble County Board of DDPrimary Solutions

Provider Resources GroupPutnam County Board of DDRHDD, Inc.Ross County Board of DDSandusky County Board of DDScioto County Board of DDShelby County Board of DDSouthern Ohio COG Southwestern Ohio COG Stark County Board of DDSummit DDThe Arc of OhioTrumbull County Board of DDTuscarawas County Board of DDUnion County Board of DDVan Wert County Board of DDViaQuest, Inc.Warren County Board of DDWild River Consulting GroupWilliams County Board of DDWood County Board of DDWyandot County Board of DD

Thank you to the 2016 SYNERY Conference sponsors...(List continued)