Spring/Summer 2014
The Newsletter of The Ability Center and Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence
AGAINST ALL ODDS
MARIANNE AND LANGSTON’S STORY
Since the organization began in the mid-1980’s, staff at
Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence (ADAI) has
done their best to find, train and place dogs rescued from
shelters. ADAI Trainer, Marilyn Lazarus, would be the first
to tell you it doesn’t always pan out.
“It sure is a lot of driving to more than likely come up
empty.” Marilyn says, talking about the many trips she and
others have made to shelters across the tri-state area. “But
you still do it because you just never know. All it takes is one
successful placement to make all the miles worth it.”
She would also tell you the deck is stacked against success
for shelter dogs. First, there are the initial requirements:
breed, size and age (under two, preferably), and the initial
evaluation given at the shelter, which includes the snapping open of an umbrella to check the dog’s fear response.
If the dog passes muster, he or she is brought back to the
ADAI facility for further assessment and to begin training.
Anywhere along this path the dog may wash out. It could be
something medical. It could be something related to its past:
a fear of tall men or loud noises, or aggression toward other
dogs. There are so many obstacles to becoming a service or
therapy dog for a dog coming into the program late, many
more than faced by puppies from breeders, weaned at 8
weeks old and introduced to the caring community of puppy
fosters and Assistance Dog staff.
All this said, Langston was a stray, a black Lab mix found
in the Henry County shelter. What he had going for him
at the initial meeting was his size and demeanor. He could
make a great balance dog. More importantly, Marilyn saw
something special: “He had a sweet, independent disposition, and his eyes were very kind. We pay attention to these
types of personality traits. They can carry a dog a long way
through the training process.”
Marianne and Langston (center) with husband, Mac, and Becky
Sechrist, Langston’s foster representative.
He was brought back to the Monroe Street campus but,
unfortunately, began to assert himself in the kennel, not
with people, but with other dogs. He was jumping up a lot.
The “Alpha Male” response in him was too strong and he was
released from the program.
As the staff began to consider options before sending him
back, neutering was discussed. It doesn’t always work but,
in some cases, much of the assertiveness and “Alpha male”
instincts can be mitigated by this procedure. Considering
the alternative, for Langston, it was an avenue worth taking.
Continues on Page 2
While Wags & Wheels will continue to publish following each ADAI graduation and share plenty of dog-related information, we continue to offer
expanded coverage of the people, photos, stories and happenings of the entire Ability Center family. We hope this additional information gives you a
better understanding of the broad spectrum of support The Ability Center provides the community.
This newsletter is just the tip of the iceberg. For more stories, photos and information, please explore our websites: abilitycenter.org or adai.org
Welcome to the Family! ADAI is proud to present its most recent canine graduates and their new partners.
Christine C. (Alto, Michigan)
and ADAI service dog, Cobalt.
“Cobalt will add a degree of confidence,
helping me when I’m at home or away to
stay independent. He will be my partner
in all I do. My six years with Sabo, my
previous service dog, developed a relationship that went beyond companionship to a true partnership. I know from
experience that a bond with a service dog
can be one of the deepest, most profound
and meaningful additions to one’s life.”
AGAINST ALL ODDS
Marianne H. (Broadview Heights, OH)
and ADAI service dog, Langston
Marianne and her husband, Mac, live in
Broadview Heights, Ohio. She is a retired
teacher and enjoys quilting, sewing and
crocheting, as well as going to concerts
and museums and dining out and visiting
with friends. Marianne says, “A service
dog can add many things to my life. The
companionship, smiling face and unconditional love is worth as much or more than
the dog’s physical service.”
From Page 1
After the procedure, Langston was sent home with Kennel
Assistant, Mary Anne McIlroy to recuperate. A few days
later, Mary Anne began to see promise. She asked the team
to re-evaluate Langston before sending him back. The team
did just that and liked what they saw too. He was kinder and
gentler with everyone, including his kennel mates. He also
exhibited a real willingness to learn. Langston was reinstated
into the program.
Jennifer S. (Maumee, OH)
and ADAI service dog, Olive.
Olive is Jennifer’s second service dog,
stepping in for Allie, who was with her
for 11 years before passing away last Fall.
“Olive will give me more independence
around the house and out at stores. She
will help me by getting my purse, the
phone or anything I drop. I am so used
to having a service dog around. Olive will
be a big part of my life and daily routines.
She will keep my spirits up.”
the tail and a smile on the face. The two took to each other
immediately. Training ensued, and, as the two began to work
together, the bond grew, and at the Spring Graduation in
April 2014, the leash was passed from foster to new partner
and two lives were changed forever.
“My disability is a rare form of arthritis that causes my
joints to dislocate often. It also affects my gait, making me
unstable. After two weeks of training with Langston, I was
already walking better.”
With this reinstatement, a search began for a potential
match. Marilyn knew of a woman in eastern Ohio whose
current service dog was physically failing. She needed a dog
just like Langston. Against all odds, things were beginning
to look up for this former stray with the kind eyes and the
sweet disposition.
Now, four weeks out from graduation, Langston is
showing his ability to anticipate. “It may sound strange,”
Marianne continues, “but he seems to intuitively know
when I am about to dislocate. He will stop walking and lean
hard against me. Chase, my first dog, was smart, but he
didn’t anticipate.”
One of the primary observations ADAI staff focus on during an initial meeting between potential partners is rapport.
Is there a connection between the two? When Marianne
Hoppel met Langston, there was a definite spark: a wag in
Marianne speaks of the transition unfolding between the
two dogs. “Chase has been with me for eight years and he
has been marvelous. As he has aged, though, he has acquired a nerve disorder and he is physically slowing down.
Delta Elementary (Delta, OH)
and ADAI therapy dog, Dwight.
Cindy Savage is a guidance counselor at
Delta Elementary. She knows Dwight
will offer support and friendship to her
students. He will act as a reading buddy;
work on building self confidence and
help students express their feelings and
needs when communication is difficult.
She hopes students living with emotional
disabilities will have less anxiety when
Dwight is present.
Bigelow Hill/Northview Elementary
(Findlay, OH)
and ADAI therapy dog, Clover.
Emily Myers, guidance counselor at
Bigelow Hill Intermediate and Northview
Primary Schools in Findlay knows that
Clover will make a positive impact in many
ways; providing comfort and motivation to
succeed in school. She will demonstrate
self-discipline and responsibility, and will
support the students in times of grief and
the day to day stress that life presents.
Bestselling Author to Keynote
2014 ADAI Summer Graduation
August 14
Parkway Place, Maumee
For details:
See Upcoming Events on Page 15.
They both know what is happening. Chase is letting “the
teenager” Langston assume the duties he once performed.
A touching moment happened recently when Chase couldn’t
get up to retrieve his favorite chew toy. Langston instictively
picked it up and brought it to Chase. Chase chewed it a few
times and then gave it to Langston. It was like the ‘passing of
the toy.’ It was beautiful for my husband and I to witness.”
These are the moments Marilyn was referring to, the ones that
make it all worth it: all the miles, all the testing and training and
care. Sure the deck is stacked, but you do it anyway ... because
you just never know.
Chase and Langston hanging out on the back porch
Any last thoughts, Marianne? Yes! I want to acknowledge Marilyn. Because of her, I have a successor dog. She knew exactly
what I needed in a successor to Chase and she spent four months working with Langston at her home to get him prepared
for our partnership. I cannot begin to repay her for this labor of love.
A Note: The national average for a successful placement of a shelter dog is close to 1 in 100. The success rate for the
Assistance Dogs for Achieving Independence program at The Ability Center is much higher. This program gives many dogs
with dim futures a second chance at life and an opportunity to make a real difference in the lives of others. For more
information on how you can help this program, contact the Ability Center at 419.885.5733 or online at abilitycenter.org
An Ability Center HRC Success Story
ERNEST’S STORY: HAPPY TO BE HOME
by Tiffany Tierney, ACT’s Nursing Home Transition Community Support Coach
Ernest G comes from a close-knit family. The 57-year-old has lived in Paulding since
the 1980’s, when he, his mother, and brother moved from San Antonio to be closer
to family.
In 2011, Ernest went for what he believed would be a routine gall bladder removal.
Unfortunately, it was anything but routine. Ernest’s brother, Johnny, recalls how it
took several weeks before Ernest had his surgery. “It ended up being an emergency
gall bladder removal. After the surgery, Ernest was able to walk and talk. The next day
was a different story. His organs began to shut down, and he was admitted to Lutheran
Nursing Facility, where he spent three weeks in an induced coma.”
After a number of hospital trips, Ernest was told him he needed a feeding tube. He
was also told he would need a tracheotomy. Finally, he was told he would need these
things for the rest of his life. Though baffled by all these complications, and through
the subsequent surgeries, Ernest never gave up on his belief - one day he would go
back home. He had to hold on to his belief for almost two and half years.
Ernest’s mother, Socorro, remembers with great emotion the two year ordeal, “My son was transferred to the hospital. It
was an overwhelming experience for him, myself and our family. The doctors stated there was nothing else they could do for
him and advised me to agree to disconnect him from life support. Puzzled and angry, I asked why this would happen when my
son was alert and talking? I argued people should not disconnect their loved ones just because the doctors tell them to. I said
Ernest will not be disconnected. My son was transferred back to Lutheran Nursing Facility where they took very good care
of him. Also, the Gardens in Paulding worked miracles. I know Ernest is a miracle to be here today and I am thankful I did not
agree to disconnect my son from life support.”
Through willpower, Ernest persevered. He never gave up, eventually weaning himself off the feeding tube and the need for a
trache. As his situation improved, Kaleigh, the Social Worker at The Gardens of Paulding Nursing Facility (his latest and last
nursing facility) told Ernest about the Home Choice program. He recalled how helpful she was. His dream of two and a half
years would soon be a reality. He was going home!
Kaleigh connected Ernest with Kaitlyn Lasley, Nursing Home Transition Coordinator for The Ability Center’s Bryan office.
She helped guide Ernest through the process of leaving the nursing facility and transitioning back home where his family
waited. On April 14, 2014, Ernest arrived home. His home. Home Sweet Home.
Through Home Choice, Kaitlyn was able to assist Ernest with purchasing clothing, furniture, a bed, a lift chair and other items necessary to set him up in the Paulding community.
He also connected with case management, nursing, and therapy services through the
Home Choice Program. Without all of this support from the program, and the installation
of the aluminum ramp, the dream of moving back home would not have become a reality.
Ernest received his temporary ramp through the Ohio Department of Medicaid’s Local
Housing and Services Cooperative (LHSC) funds and The Home Accessibility Program at
The Ability Center. “If he did not have the ramp, it would be impossible for Ernest to be
safe in this home.” Johnny remembers, “I made him a ramp on the back side of the house.
Unfortunately, it was not safe. It was too short and steep to use. The new ramp has eliminated any worry or doubt for Ernest. Now he is independent. He can go inside and outside
when he desires.”
For Ernest, he is just happy to be home, spending time with his family, listening to music,
being part of it all again. He had been through an ordeal. Two and a half years. No matter.
Ernest is home … smiling, happy, and grateful to have his independence back.
For more SUCCESS STORIES, visit our website. While there, stay current by signing up for our electronic newsletter.
SHARING VISION: The Power Of Systems Change
Any advocate will tell you, the biggest Advocacy bang
for the buck happens in Systems Advocacy, where changes
made affect the many, as well as the individual. Creating
positive systems change requires an understanding of the
system: how it works, how its many policies, programs
and services overlap and interact to provide a “blanket of
support” for those who need it.
Creating positive systems change also requires one be able
to recognize where systems and their programs fall short
or need improvement; then, thinking creatively, invent,
develop and share effective solutions that lead to policy
and program change.
The Ability Center’s Housing Resource Center (HRC)
houses experts who work together to improve the lives of
people with disabilities wanting to live in and connect with
their communities. In nearly every situation, this involves
negotiating systems with an understanding, passion and
tenacity that have afforded them notoriety in widening
advocacy circles. They are creating change.
Over the past several years, the HRC staff has been
helping to blaze trails in the fledgling “Money Follows the
Person” movement, developing a world-class Nursing
Home Transition program (to date: 600 individuals assisted
with getting out or staying out of nursing homes). They
developed the Alumi-Ramp program, a temporary ramp
program addressing a systemic Catch-22. They also
developed an educational brochure intended to address
confusion around Zoning and Reasonable Accommodation.
These efforts are creating real and necessary systems
change, and will affect in positive ways people across our
service area, across Ohio and beyond. The previous story
of Ernest is a fine example of how the Alumi-Ramp
program has made it possible for someone to return home.
Without the ramp he would still be stuck with a single
option instead of enjoying his family and life.
Programs created to fill a void or address newly discovered needs tend to be successful and grow rapidly. This is
reflected in the success of our Alumi-Ramp program. To
meet growing need, ACT has just purchased an additional
$11,000 worth of ramping stock. These additional parts
will supplement the initial $33,000 order delivered in May
2013, when we first began working with the Ohio Department of Medicaid’s (ODM) LHSC grant, a grant developed
to help pay for the installation of temporary ramps until
legislators can permanently remedy the Catch-22.
ODM recently stated this change to the system will be
addressed sometime in 2015.
ACT’s Housing Resource Center receives shipment of aluminum
ramp parts expanding their inventory to help more consumers.
A FEW NUMBERS
Since ACT’s Housing Resource Center began using the
LHSC grant in March 2013 we have:
• Installed (13) Alumi-Ramps to help consumers
wishing to discharge from a nursing facility;
• Installed (1) porch lift (purchased through LHSC) for
a minor in jeopardy of going to a nursing facility if
safe access/egress was not provided for his home;
• Installed (1) donated Alumi-Ramp (ACT was the
beneficiary of the donation) to a consumer who was
transitioned out of a nursing facility without a ramp.
• Installed (1) threshold ramp. Consumer transitioned
to her home that already had a ramp but needed a
threshold ramp;
• Installed (1) wooden ramp. The consumer needed a
ramp to discharge from a facility.
At this time, all the Alumi-Ramp parts we have are for
LHSC specific consumers (actively receiving Medicaid).
Priority is for Home Choice consumers. The goal is for
these temporary ramps to be replaced by wooden ramps,
freeing these parts to benefit other consumers.
DID YOU KNOW:
As example of our dedication to building and growing
community partnerships, The Ability Center supports
the great work of Hospice of Northwest Ohio,
collaborating with them to install, uninstall and store
Hospice-owned Aluminum ramps, affording a sense of
dignity and independence when it is most needed.
ABILITY CENTER HOSTS
FAIR HOUSING SEMINAR
When, in June 1999, the United States Supreme
Court held in Olmstead v. L.C. that unjustified
segregation of persons with disabilities constituted
discrimination in violation of Title II of the Americans
with Disabilities Act, everything changed for people
living with disabilities seeking an independent life in
their communities and outside of institutions.
The Court held that public entities must provide
community-based services to persons with
disabilities when (1) such services are appropriate;
(2) the affected persons do not oppose community-based treatment; and (3) community-based services can be
reasonably accommodated, taking into account the resources available to the public entity and the needs of others who
are receiving disability services from the entity.
The Supreme Court explained that the holding “reflected two evident judgments.” First, “institutional placement of
persons who can handle and benefit from community settings perpetuates unwarranted assumptions that persons so
isolated are incapable of or unworthy of participating in community life.” Second, “confinement in an institution severely
diminishes the everyday life activities of individuals, including family relations, social contacts, work options, economic
independence, educational advancement, and cultural enrichment.”
On May 8th the Ability Center hosted a Fair Housing and Olmstead conference, titled “Ensuring Choice in Community
Living.” Over 150 people, representing nearly 100 organizations, attended the half-day conference.
Speakers included:
Michael P. Marsh, President and CEO for the Fair Housing Center
Derrick Dufresne, Founder and President of Community Resource Associates, Inc.
Stephen M. Dane, Civil Rights Attorney of Relman, Dane & Colfax
Shelley Papenfuse, Chair of the Ohio Olmstead Task Force and
the HOME Choice Consumer Advisory Council.
Attendees learned of the many systemic barriers people with disabilities currently
face when attempting to participate in community living. Understanding what being
“part of” a community really means, with specific emphasis on the Civil Rights laws and the
Supreme Court decision (Olmstead) was also highlighted.
The goal of the conference was to allow stakeholders to become apprised of the many
proactive actions available for implementation that will assist in accomplishing the goals
of Olmstead.
For more information about the conference please visit the
archive on our website:
abilitycenter.org/may-8-fair-housing-presentation-bio-page
Clockwise from top:
Derrick Dufresne,
Shelley Papenfuse,
Stephen Dane,
and Michael Marsh
AREA FUNDRAISERS PROVIDE GOOD TIME,
GREAT FOOD AND NEEDED SUPPORT
This Spring brought a number of opportunities for Ability
Center and Assistance Dogs supporters to come together
for food, fun and fundraising.
Pasta For Pooches, a spaghetti dinner fundraiser benefiting
Assistance Dogs For Achieving Independence, complete
with raffles, a silent auction and music, was held Saturday,
March 15. The brainchild of ADAI family member Tina
Calhoun, this was the second year for this event. “A HUGE
thank you to all of the donors and volunteers.” acknowledges Ms. Calhoun, “With their help, we were able to raise
$11,085.00 for a cause that is near and dear to me.”
Raising the Steaks, a steak dinner hosted by the Maumee
Eagles, was held on Saturday, May 3, at the Aerie in
Maumee. Again, music, raffles, a silent auction and dinner
raised $8,635.00 for ADAI’s Shelter Dog Rescue program.
Wags & Wheels Inaugural 5K Race ran on Saturday, June
7 at the University of Toledo. Over 70 participants ran,
walked or rolled the course, enjoying a beautiful morning
and raising money for the ADAI program.
ANNUAL CAMPAIGN MEETS GOAL
The Ability Center held its Annual Campaign from October 1 through April 10. Over 658 donors (including 100%
of board and staff) gave a total of $108,946 to support the
programs of The Ability Center.
These donors are changing the lives of people we serve.
By their support they are saying they share our vision, and
value the work we do. We are so grateful.
A special thank you also goes to Richard Carr, Mayor of
Maumee, for serving as our Campaign Chair, and to David
Haddix and Nancy Jomantas, for their exellent work as CoChairs for the campaign.
Additional thanks to Tom McArdle, Ability Center board
member and Chair of the Development Committee.
We are appreciative of the efforts of these leaders and the
volunteers that helped us reach this goal.
GIFT FROM GRETCHEN GOTTHART
SKELDON FUND HELPS TO PROVIDE
TOOLS FOR INDEPENDENCE
Independence for most of us means freedom from the
control, influence, or support of others. For Felicia, independence is something she is learning to gain back. She
experienced a stroke not long ago and now has left side
paralysis, which makes some of her daily tasks difficult.
She contacted The Ability Center for assistance with
receiving a can opener. The Center’s Customer Service
staff sent her a catalog with marked pages she might find
helpful, along with an application for financial assistance
to receive this item through ACT’s Independent Living
Assistance Program. Felicia completed and returned the
application with a list of six items in the magazine that
could assist her with daily tasks: a one-touch can opener,
a one-touch jar opener, a bed rail, a raised toilet seat with
handles, a dressing stick, and a therapeutic pillow to rest
between her body and left arm. Unfortunately, Felicia did
not qualify for financial assistance. Nor could she afford
the equipment she needed. She was stuck.
Enter the Gretchen Gotthart Skeldon Fund of the
Toledo Community Foundation, and the donation they
made in February stipulating it be used for independent
living support for those who fall through the crack
between making too much and not having enough to
purchase what they need.
Using a portion of their gift, the Ability Center was able
to purchase all six of these items for Felicia, helping her to
regain her independence and not have to rely so much on
support from others. Felicia was very appreciative of the
assistance provided by both The Ability Center and the
Gretchen Gotthart Skeldon Fund.
To learn more about the
Gretchen Gotthart Skeldon
Fund, visit their website:
gretchenfund.org
SCHOLARSHIPS AWARDED
The Ability Center and its Auxiliary have teamed
up to award $20,000 in scholarships to students
with disabilities pursuing higher education. The
scholarships were given at the Auxiliary’s Spring
luncheon on May 14 at Belmont Country Club.
In his remarks, Tim Harrington, Ability Center
Executive Director thanked the members of the
Auxiliary for their tireless efforts and dedication to
the Center and students.
He then thanked the parents of the recipients for
believing in their children; for supporting their
dreams and instilling in them the values and confidence they will need to succeed.
Finally, he thanked the students themselves for
owning their disabilities; for recognizing the gifts
that come from living differently. (As part of the
application, students are asked to write an essay
about their experience with disability.)
Left to Right: Ashlee Barth, Alec Perdeau, Conner Edgar, Marissa Boros
and John Byrne
2014 AUXILIARY OFFICERS ANNOUNCED
In closing, he challenged each young recipient to
pay back the Auxiliary and Center by continuing
to chase their dreams, by doing their best, and by
going out into the world and making it a better
place. “Our investment in you is a reflection of
our belief in you.”
$4,000 Scholarships
Ashlee Barth
University of Toledo
Early Childhood Education
Marissa Boros
Ohio University
Early Childhood Education
John Byrne
Case Western Reserve University
Mental Health Counseling
Conner Edgar
Owens Community College
Early Childhood Education
Alec Perdeau
Bowling Green State University
History
Congratulations to our 2014 Scholarship
recipients.
“When we believe in our children, they will believe
in themselves.”
- Patt Wilkins, Parent Advocate
Left to right: Sue Vrooman, President; Alice Schorling, Vice President;
Linda Varanese, Membership; Mary Tucker, Treasurer;
Joan Tobias, Corresponding Secretary; and Jan Zimmerman,
Recording Secretary
SAVE THE DATE:
2014 AUXILIARY STYLE SHOW
“Smile, Sparkle and Shine!”
October 8
10am to 2pm
at The Premier on Heatherdowns
Luncheon • Vendors • Raffles
Proceeds to Support The Ability Center
CONGRATULATIONS
AGAIN TO OUR OWN
ERYN SANDERS
ANOTHER CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP
COLLABORATION
Eryn is a mainstay in our
Ottawa County office. May
21, the Leadership Ottawa
County Board announced it
was honoring Eryn with the
Leadership Ottawa County
Alumni Leadership Award for
2014. This is recognition for
her achievements over the
past few years working with
community partnerships like 4-H and Camp Palmer. Eryn is
the 6th Alumnus to receive this award.
Last October, at the National APRIL Conference, Eryn
was honored with the Linda Gonzalez Award, a National
Youth Development Award given by the Association of
Programs for Rural Independent Living (APRIL) for her work
with the same programs.
We are so proud of everything she has achieved this year.
Her leadership is making our community better! To put a
big blue bow on an already extraordinary year for Eryn, she
and her husband, Kevin, are celebrating the birth of their
first child, Paxton. (E & K: He’s going to rock your world!)
Saturday, Oct 18
Bryan Eagles, Bryan, Ohio
Dinner: 5:00pm
Drawing Begins: 7:00pm
Tickets: $50 per person
(includes a steak dinner
and adult beverages)
1st PRIZE: $1500 2nd PRIZE: $750 3rd PRIZE: $500
More games plus chances to win other prizes!
Help us
change lives
in beautiful ways
one partnership
at a time.
TICKETS ON SALE NOW!
Contact: Amy Kerchevall @ [email protected]
Or: Shelley Wanner @ 419.351.2583 or 419.636.5353
Or: The Ability Center @ 419.885.5733 or 866.885.5733
Only 250 Tickets Will Be Sold.
Each Person Must Have A Ticket And Be At Least 21 Years Old To Enter.
Proceeds benefit Assistance Dogs who help children and adults with disabilities achieve greater
independence by training and placing service and therapy dogs to assist them with their daily needs.
Sponsored by
Bryan Eagles Aerie #2233
Catholic Heart WorkCamp is a national program providing
a youth friendly, Christ-centered week of caring for others. It offers parish youth groups, teens and adult leaders
from across the country service opportunities intended
to restore homes and HEARTS, feed the hungry, lift the
spirits of children, bring joy to the elderly and people living
with disabilities and offer assistance while partnering with
social agencies.
Since 2008, CHWC has been partnering yearly with The
Ability Center, spending their week in Toledo building ramps
with our ramp crew. This year’s group brought representation from Indiana, Illinois, Wisconsin, Ohio and Tennessee.
This year’s CHWC ramp recipient, Herbie Myrice, had
nothing but praise for the group and ACT ramp crew.
“These young men were phenomenal. I’ve spent three days
getting to know them and, to tell the truth, I’m going to
miss them. They really have made an impact on my life. I
will remember them fondly and think of these three days
every time I roll up and down this ramp.”
DONATIONS TO THE ABILITY CENTER - October 1, 2013 - March 31, 2014
Memorials and Honorariums
In Memory of Abbey
All-Nu Construction
In Memory of Rudy Burns
Franklin Park Vision
In Memory of Samantha Laux
Chris and Gail Laux
In Honor of Sandy Alberson
Irene Mehling
In Honor of Carter and Drew
Patrick and Amy Kotewa
In Memory of Stephen Amsdell
Jim and Trisha Nycz
In Honor of Chelsea
John and Heidi Szeltner
In Honor of Anderson
Paul and Annie Jessen
In Memory of Cheyenne and Brittney
Jim and Sharon Hightower
In Honor of Libby
Ruth Albright
Dani Dorresteyn
Susanna Gale
Karon Hudson
Mary Ann Ruehling
In Honor of Zachary Arndt
William Arndt
In Honor of Annette Coker
Theodore and Dawn Riegert
In Honor of Asher and Sobe
Kendra and Nathan Dodson
In Memory of Bob Cooke
Mary Miller
In Memory of Timothy Baumker,
Thomas Baumker, and
Anthony Baumker
Denise McHue
Darlene Whitaker
In Memory of Corky
Carrie Reinhard
In Honor of Dorrin Birch and JJ
Jeanette Cheh
In Memory of Crickett Bowman
Michael and Kathy Bowman
In Honor of Kathy Bowman
and Jackson
Marilyn Broadaway
Susan Goff
Harley Gorman
Jennifer Hoyle
Kelly Repka
Tom Rimer
Betty Jo Steinman
Nancy Turner
Michele & David Winter
In Honor of Brady
Gail and Joseph Rinderknecht
In Honor of Connor & Kennedy
Bringman
Chad and Linda Bringman
In Memory of Joel Brumlik
Rachel Weber
In Memory of Buffy and Pepper
Judith Frosch
In Memory of Robert Cunningham
Randall and Frances Krieger
Ronald and Jodi Snyder
Cynthia Wargowsky
In Memory of Michael Czerniak
Dolores Czerniak
In Memory of George E. Daniels
Denise McHue
In Memory of Anna Daunhauer
Edward Daunhauer
In Honor of Merle Davis
Beverly Olsin
In Memory of David Dipofi
Franklin Park Vision
In Memory of Sue Earle
Thomas and Donna Adams
Richard and Mary Gallaway
In Memory of Berth Eckel
Franklin Park Vision
In Honor of Mr. and Mrs.
Stan Fingerhut
David and Donna Mraz
In Memory of Lee Forgette
Barbara Holdcroft
Betty Lou Wallace
Charlene Weaver
In Honor of Timmy Faulkner
Ronald E. and Marian Gladieux
In Memory of Karen Gallaway
Richard Gallaway
Richard and Mary Gallaway
In Memory of Ginger
Laurie Nastas
In Honor of Clyde and
Nathalie Givens
Toledo Chapter #341 O.E.S.
In Memory of Garry Hammer
Mary Miller
In Memory of Hannah
Richard and Virginia Brown
Justin Dowling
In Memory of Hazel
Dick and Katie Brown
In Memory of Hoss
Andrew and Joyce Deuble
In Honor of Gary Johnson
Jakob Rinderknecht
In Memory of Justice
Daniel and Stephanie Taylor
In Memory of Dave Kellermeier
Robert and Gail Zimmerman
In Honor of Kennedy
Dennis and Melissa Cimo
Erin Gillig
Douglas and Vicki Hartenstein
Edward and Patricia Smith
In Honor of Brandon Lanning
L-B Electric, Inc.
In Honor of Maddie
Pamela Rybka
In Memory of John Mahoney
Anne Mahoney
In Memory of Susan Mailloux
Curt and Lynn Simonye
In Memory of Rowena Meeks
Ruth Driver
In Memory of Gene Schnitker
Scott and Laura Abke
Bruce and Lisa Hammond
Rose Schnitker
Kurt Sieving
Amy Watkins
Robert and Joan Winters
In Memory of Molly
Cathie Paul
In Memory of Barbara Schwartz
Jim and Martha Adams
Robert and Selma Deshetler
David and Mary Jo Dressell
Lowell and Shirley Hinkle
Gary and Pamela Mayer
Thomas and Cheryl McNutt
Jerome and Diane Phillips
Daniel and Anne Stevens
In Memory of William Niehous
Jim and Kris McHugh
In Memory of Daniel Selzer
Jodi Hall
In Memory of Lisa Nycz
Jim and Trisha Nycz
In Honor of Debbie and
George Skuggen
Bill and Carol Burmeister
Tom and Bonnie Butts
In Honor of Teddy Meyer
Dorothy Price
In Honor of Tom and Teddy Meyer
Hensel Foundation
In Honor of Jamie Osborn
Philip Osborn
In Memory of
Raymond Dwight Oden
Blaine and April Wagner
In Memory of Bill Payne
Lori Payne
In Memory of Demetra Petrus
Franklin Park Vision
In Honor of Becky Ploughe
and Family
Evansport United Methodist
Church
In Memory of Geraldine Raszka
Gale Tedhams
In Honor of Lalo Rivera
Christy Rivera
In Honor of Gerrie Rowley
Margaret Fisher
In Memory of Sabbie
Mary Beth Snider
In Memory of Sandy
Linda Meeks
In Honor of Sam Sayed
Brian and Cindy Hoeflinger
In Memory of Spencer
Sue Bernardo
In Honor of Sandy Sundermeier
and Reba
Chris and Marlene North
Nancy Wikoff Leetch
St. Mark Lutheran Church
Marcena Sundermeier
UCC Builders Guild
In Honor of Star
Diane Dubose
In Memory of Stella Pacholski
Rachelle Horowitz
In Memory of William Sundberg
Claudia Sundberg
In Memory of Brady Tackett and Cole
Tim and Karen Colvin
In Memory of Teddy
Sally Frizzell Coleman
In Honor of Teddy
Cheryl Sokoll
In Honor of John Terwilliger
John and Amy Burk
In Memory of Connie Thomson
Joseph Thomson
In Honor of Justin Voll and Herman
Fran and Marty Voll
In Memory of James Watt
Franklin Park Vision
In Honor of Tom and
Star Watterworth
Jon and Carolyn Watterworth
In Honor of Benny Wilkerson
Nancy Clark
In Memory of Windsor
Scott and Nancy Schafer
In Honor of Tyler Yoder
Douglas and Diane McCreery
Lowell and Marylin Yoder
Welles Society Donors – Over $500
Auxiliary to The Ability Center
Chris and Mary Ann Boesel
Molly Branyan
Brown & Brown of Toledo
David and Claire Browning
Buckeye CableSystem
CMC Group
Designetics
Kimberlie England
Findley Davies, Inc.
France Stone Foundation
Godlan Corporation
Seth and Evelyn Greenwald
Linda and Donald Gruenemeyer
Tim and Chris Harrington
Carl and Margaret Hedlund
Hensel Foundation
John and Kimberly Jardine
Paul and Stephany Johnson
Andrea, Mary and Kevin Kimmet
Bill Logie
Ana Lopez
Marketing & Research Resources, Inc.
Thomas and Kay McArdle
McIntosh Family Fund
Holly Metzger
Don and Gail Mewhort
Monroe County MI Chapter of
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans
Philip Osborn
Petco Foundation
Dorothy Price
ProMedica Physicians Corp.
Regan Insurance Company
Kelly Repka
Saint-Gobain Corporation
Foundation
Dennis Skala
Phil Skeldon
Steel Dimensions, Inc.
Robert and Mary Suchy
Claudia Sundberg
Gale Tedhams
TKBW Private Foundation
Trinity Door Systems
Deborah Wagner
J. Jean Ward
Jon and Carolyn Watterworth
Peter Weddington
Deke and Hope Welles
Georgia Welles
Danny and Lisa Wilczynski
Daniel and Beth Wilkins
Joann Wyatt
Lowell and Marylin Yoder
Margaret Zatko
General Donations
(under $500)
Dale and Natalie Abell
Teresa Adamshick
Sherril L. Adkins
Robert Alexander
Allen Correctional Institution
American Legion Grosse Pointe
#303
Ameriprise Financial
Joe and Debbie Andriette
Mark Armstrong
Rob Armstrong
Kimberley and Tim Arnett
David and Vera Arnold
Dennis and
Mary Kay Assenmacher
Michael Barlos
Harry and Jenny Barlos
Robert Barnes
Barnesville Chapter #206 OES
Amanda Bell
Bellbrook Music Boosters Scrip
Robert and Kathy Berns
Nasreen Bhumbra
Rita Bick
Daisy Birchfield
Leroy and Elaine Bockbrader
George and Linda Boerger
Mary Bolg
Tim and Nan Borer
Johnathan Bowen
Thomas Bowers
Michelle Bowman
Rosemary Boyd
Elaine Braun
Lynn Brebberman
Marjorie Brechbill
Sally Brenner
Richard and Jennifer Brienik
Gloria Britt
Dolores Brown
Bryan Lions Club Foundation
Gerald and Kathryn Bryant
Bill and Jean Buckley
Randy and Lori Buckley
James and Helen Burnard
Craig and Martha Burns
Shirley Busselle
Nicole, Michael, and Jaden Cape
Cardinal Stritch Catholic High School
Karol Carone
Richard and Tomlyn Chambers
Christopher and Deborah Cheney
Russel and Donna Clark
Donald and Ellen Clark
John Clement, Sr.
Michael and Karla Cline
Lorraine Coe
Philip Collette
Dan Collister
Carl and Carol Comstock
Robert Conley
Robert and Kathleen Coombs
Craig and Heather Cox
Brian Cromly
Paul and Louann Cummings
Steve Cygan
Chris Daunhauer
Eleanor Debo
Patricia DeCesare
Matt and Rhonda DeKoninck
Maureen Devany
Mark and Tracy Dickinson
John and Susan Dignam
John and Marja Dooner
Ruth Dotterer
Rich Douglas
Emery and Karen Dress
Gary Dughi
Thomas and Lynne Dunifon
Dan Durham
Ted and Judy Eckel
William and Sharon Eickholt
Elephant Bar
Ellbrook Chapter 408 Jr. Stars
Richard Eppstein
Barbara and Robert Eriksen
Kristina Ervin
Jim Etzel
Elizabeth Fackelman
Carol Fadell
Wayne and Rita Feather
Peggy Feirstine
Mary Figgins
Gary and Mary Ford
John and Carole Forte
Helen Stamm Foth
Darrell and Doris Fox
Kurt and Lynn Franck
William Joe and Beth Friess
Jeff and Martha Frye
Elaine Gabalac
Anne Gajewski
Nancy Gauger
Donald and Molly Geldien
Vanetta Gierzak
Craig and Wendy Gordon
Thomas and Deb Grabetz
Grace PreSchool
Gary and Susan Gray
Joe Grisham
Jeffery and Deborah Grochowski
Colleen Grogan
Raymond and Kimberly Gutierrez
Julie Gyuras
Mark and Annemarie Hainen
Scott and Melissa Hammer
Mike Harrington
Mark and Susan Hassel
Hausman Foundation Trust
John and Wilda Hawker
Heaven’s Gate Candles
Anita Hedeker
Ned Hein
Robert Hemond
Stanley R. and Janice L. Henderson
Heritage Financial Advisors
Brett Hetrick
Mary Himmelein
Lee and Sarah Hinton
Angie Hiser
Ronald and Vickie Hoeft
Marc and Lori Holland
James and Janice Holzemer
Costello Horton
Joseph and Phyllis Horvath
Pamela Howell-Beach
Kerry and Michelle Iott
Philip and Patricia Isaac
Patricia Jacobs
Julie Jessop
Audrey Johnson
Melissa Johnson
Marlene Johnson
Roberta Johnson
Paul and Nancy Jomantas
Michael and Charlotte Judy
Michael and Lisa Justice
Linda Kaplin
Richard Kaplin
Congresswoman Marcy Kaptur
Sue Karnitis
John and Margaret Katona
Victoria Kavalick
Debbie Keller
Robert and Jennifer Keller
Amy Kerchevall
Douglas Kidd
Norman Kies
Thomas and Karen Klein
Glenn Kollman
Barbara Kontaratos
James and Ann Korotnayi
Jean Kossow
Sheldon and Susan Kowalski
Kroger Company
Thomas Krolak
Walter and Mary Krueger
Sarah Krueger
Frederick and Sharon Kujawa
Kimberly Lahman
Terry Lanning
Chris LaPore
Mary Larkin
Kaitlyn Lasley
Barry and Marilyn Lazarus
Patricia Leary
Karen Lemle
Ash Lemons
Anita Levin
Vivian Lewis
Scott and Robin Libbe
Lincolnway Stamps
Chuck and Carol Loisel
Maria Lopez
Jay and Louise Lowenstein
Lucas County Auditor
Dawn Lucio
Mark and Sandy Luetke
Karen Luling
Peter and Michele Lynch
Douglas and Helene Lyon
Maryruth Mabbitt
Richard and Laura MacMillan
Howard S. and Mary C. Madigan
Seth and Kali Makula
Dawn and Dennis Makula
Shirley Males
Marathon Toledo Classic, Inc.
Harry and Scott Martzke
Cynthia McBride
Susan McClay
Richard and Mary McComb
Michael McConnell
Dennis and Mary Anne McIlroy
Matthew and Colleen McQuade
Thomas and Maureen Menacher
Mindy Metzger
Carolyn Metzger
Thomas and Teddy Meyer
Lori Mikesell
Corinne Miller
Vera Miller
Joseph Miller
Fred Miller
Vaughn Miller
Angela Mintz
Chinda Misra
Thomas and Suellen Moore
Phyllis B. Morton
Gary Mossburg
Dennis Mussery
Amanda Neal
Linda Nelson
Lynn Nickles
Eugene Nicolls
Kim Nielsen
Patricia Norden
North Baltimore Lions Club
Northwest Ohio Community
Shares
Joan Ockuly
Becky Opperman
Sheila Oster
Robert Otting
Pamela Otto
Tiffany Painter
Pampered Paws Pet Sitting LLC
Shelley Papenfuse
Brianne Patek
Greg Pax
Payette Business Forms, Inc.
Gail Perez
Jack and Jennifer Perion
Perrysburg Chapter No 446
Lew Pflaum
Edwin and Frances Phillips
Gary and Gail Phipps
Helen Pieczynski
Laura Pierce
Margaret Plontz
Barbara Plunkett
Nancy Pollock
Lynne Prescott
Paige Price
Projects Designed & Built, Inc.
Promedica Q.I.
Samuel and Marilyn Provencher
Cathy Quinones
Jessica Rainwater
Shirley Rayport
Amy Reitzel
Andrew and Cheryl Riggs
Joan Ringholz
Craig Roberts
Dave and Pam Roberts
Wilma Robinson
Beau Rochte
Sharon Roesner
Sara Rose
Jeffrey and Sharon Rumpf
Thomas Saarie
Saint Michael’s in the Hills
Eryn Sanders
Sandusky County Board of DD
Sam and Fatima Sayed
Jon and Judy Schamp
Arlon and Jane Schroeder
Kenneth and June Seidl
Roxie Sekel
Herbert Shugarman
David Simko
Christopher and Diane Simons
Calvin Simpson
Gus and Frances Skapek
Nick and Cynthia Skiver
George and Debbie Skuggen
Bill and Viola Sloan
Gary and Linda Smith
Dwight Smith
Carter Smith
Jeffrey and Susan Smith
Don Smith
Helen Snyder
Eleanor Sonntag
Beverly St. Clair
St. Patrick of Heatherdowns Church
James and Oddlyn Stapleton
Doris Stone
Craig Stough
Becky Strieff
Patricia Strnad
Bob Stump
Donald Stupica
Sutton Property Leasing LTD
David and Ann Swartout
Kathryn Swartz
Sylvania Advantage
Shirley Tarschis
Ward Taylor
TelecomPioneers Ohio Chapter #2
Tory Thompson
Jody Thompson
Tiffany Tierney
Mary Anne Tigges
Audrey Tingley
Judy Tluczek
Dennis and Joan Tobias
Jeffrey and Nancy Traudt
Truist
R. Scott and Margaret Trumbull
John Trunk
Mary Tucker
Rose Underwood
Nancy Vendemo
Nancy Vendittelli
Versailles in the Woods II
Joseph Vetter
Hans and Martha Vetter
Gregory Videtic
Richard and Shelley Walinski
Gary and Marilyn Walker
Jo Ann Wallace
Timothy and Kateri Walsh
Paul E. Ward
Mike Ward
Jennifer and Caleb Weber
Coleen Wening
Allison Wesson
Mark Wexler
Mary Wieszhon
Jeannine and Philip Wilbarger
Blaine and Joan Wiley
Tami Williams
Cenia Willis
Elizabeth Wilson
Cristine Winner
Dennis and Suzanne Witherell
Jeffery Witt
Jordan Wolff
Sara Worley
Joyce and Jon Yarick
James and Barbara Yavorcik
Charles and Geraldine Yeager
Frederick and Jacqueline Yocum
Mary Zagoric
Susan Zemla
Chris and Kalliope Zervos
Saundra Zima
A truly heartfelt thank you to all
who help us make it happen every
year. We could not do what we do so
well without you.
- The Ability Center
ELKS CONTINUE TO BE AN EXCEPTIONAL COMMUNITY PARTNER
We want to extend a huge thank you to the Elks. The generosity began with the Elks of New Mexico who donated to the
Elks of Ohio, who distributed to the Toledo Elks a generous donation of equipment. We are so fortunate to be one of the
recipients of this equipment.
The giving will continue forward as we distribute this equipment to our consumers. From this act, many people will benefit
with increased independence and quality of life. Thank you, Elks of Toledo, Elks of Ohio, and Elks of New Mexico.
UPCOMING EVENTS
SAVE THE DATE / INVITATION
FREE EVENT
FOR PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
ALL AGES WELCOME
September 27, 2014
10 am to 4 pm
2014 ADAI SUMMER GRADUATION
CMP/Camp Perry,
State Route 2
Port Clinton, OH 43452
AUGUST 14
Parkway Place, Maumee.
ACTIVITIES FOR THE DAY:
• Fishing Skills
• Target Shooting with Air Rifles
• Recurve and Genesis Bow
• Birding
• Rowing
• Sailing Skills
• Wildlife Education
• Make Your Own Bird Feeder
• Visiting with others with disabilities
about their outdoor adventures and
experiences, etc.
• And many more activities and vendors
KEYNOTE SPEAKER
Fmr. Capt. Luis Carlos Montalvan
Author of “Until Tuesday”
Cocktail Hour: 5 to 5:45 pm.
Sit Down Dinner begins at 5:45 pm.
Program begins at 6:30 pm.
Tickets: $30
To learn more about this extraordinary
program or to become involved, contact:
A Program of
THE ABILITY CENTER abilitycenter.org
Mr. Montalvan will be signing books immediately following the
ceremony. Should you wish to purchase, we will be pre-selling at
a discount. Visit our website to find out more about his books.
For Dinner tickets, books or to attend: Please RSVP by August 1
to Amy Kerchevall: 866.885.5733 • [email protected]
AT A GLANCE
July 2014
28 – Zoo Day (The Toledo Zoo)
31 – Ottawa County Friends of Center Lunch
August 2014
14 – ADAI Summer Graduation (Parkway Place)
September 2014
9 – Friends of Center Breakfast (ACT)
13 - Dealin 4 Dogs (Seagate Center)
27 – Day at the Range (Camp Perry)
October 2014
8 – Auxiliary Style Show (Premier)
18 - Bryan Reverse Raffle (Bryan Eagles)
November 2014
20 – Fall Graduation (Parkway Place)
LUNCH PROVIDED
STAY AND PLAY:
If you are interested in
staying overnight,
campsite and/or area hotel
discounts are available.
Tory Thompson
The Ability Center of Ottawa County
419.734.0330
[email protected]
Michelle Woods
The Civilian Marksmanship Program
419.635.2141, ext. 1122
[email protected]
Visit us online: abilitycenter.org/oh-day-range
Facebook: facebook.com/OHdayattherange
Sponsored by The Ohio Day at the Range Committee
Join the
Flamboyance!
(Apparently,
it is what one calls
a group
of Flamingos.)
For more
information:
abilitycenter.org
Come celebrate the anniversary of the passage of
the Americans with Disabilities Act
at the ADA Awareness Day at Toledo Zoo!
The Ability Center (ACT),
along with 100 other service providers and vendors, will gather on
Monday, July 28, 2014 from 10:00 AM until 3:00 PM.
NONPROFIT
ORGANIZATION
U.S. POSTAGE
PAID
THE
ABILITY CENTER
GREATER TOLEDO • OTTAWA COUNTY • BRYAN
TOLEDO, OH
PERMIT NO. 966
5605 Monroe Street
Sylvania, Ohio 43560
419.885.5733
866.885.5733
abilitycenter.org
adai.org
Did you know that there are many ways to support the
programs of The Ability Center? Support can be made by
individuals, groups of individuals such as family and friends,
or through organizations and companies.
$25 provides one-on-one skills training needed to reach
an independent living goal. Training might include home
economics, personal hygiene, money management, adaptive
cooking techniques and devices, or job seeking skills.
$100 could provide an individual with a membership
or supporting accommodations needed to participate in
inclusive leisure activities.
$300 can provide hands-on support for a young person
with a disability at a community camp where they can enjoy
summer experiences with their peers.
$500 provides housing expenses, household furniture,
dishes, bedding, utility connection fees, start up groceries
and other basics to living independently.
$500 will purchase a puppy that will grow up to become a
major part of someone’s life, giving the assistance they need
to live independently and a friend for life.
$1,000 will feed one dog for a year and provide veterinary
care needed as they grow and train.
For more information about these opportunities or
to explore other options, please contact The Ability Center
at 419.885.5733 or 866.885.5733, Toll-free.
9th Annual
DEALIN’ FOR DOGS
September 13, 2014 7 pm
Seagate Center, Downtown Toledo
Casino Gaming for Prizes
Dinner and Gourmet Desserts • Cash Bar
Raffle Prizes • Silent Auction
For tickets or more information:
dealinfordogs.com • 866-885-5733