WCBDD Awards Outstanding Community, Staff Members

WARREN COUNTY, OH --  The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) shined a light on community members who have made a significant impact on individuals with developmental disabilities, WCBDD, and the greater community at the annual WCBDD In-Service event on October 23, 2024.

WCBDD Superintendent Megan Manuel presented 11 awards to WCBDD staff members, community members, and businesses who have made a difference in the local disability community. 

Voices Speaking Out Self-Advocate Kelley Castle was awarded the Rachel Rice Advocacy Award. The award was named after Rachel Rice, an individual served by WCBDD who passed away in 2022. She was described as a true advocate for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Castle was chosen for the award because of her role in the community and the Voices Speaking Out (VSO) Self Advocacy group, which is comprised of adults who receive services from WCBDD who meet monthly to advocate for independence and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities.

“She embodies the mission of the Voices Speaking Out Self-Advocacy group by always speaking up for herself and others, being a proud member of her community, and treating everyone with respect,” Manuel said. “We see a reflection of Rachel’s own tenacity and commitment to uplifting others in her. Her unwavering dedication to her community, her proactive approach to challenges, and her genuine care for her fellow advocates embody the very essence of what it means to be a true champion for change.”

Adam Layton, who began his role as a Behavioral Support Coordinator for WCBDD this year, was awarded with the Green Hat Award. Community Relations Coordinator Adam Jones, who presented the award, said the Green Hat Award honors an employee who is supportive, optimistic, creative, and focuses on the strengths and abilities of others.

“This person is described as being an amazing asset to the agency, especially to the individuals and families we serve. He is always smiling, and always willing to go above and beyond to help in any way,” Jones said. “Truly genuine and thoughtful of others, this person lifts people up with his positive energy. He seems to really enjoy his job, and is a great resource and asset to WCBDD.”

Community Employment Specialist Gwen McIntire was awarded with the Dave Farmer Award. This award honors an individual whose selfless acts and dedication have made a significant impact on people with developmental disabilities.

The award was created over a decade ago in honor of Dave Farmer, a former employee who was a dedicated family man, a role model for young men, a strong leader, and an advocate for individuals with disabilities. During his long career with the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities, he assisted many individuals in learning how to become self-sufficient and productive members of the workforce. 

Beyond her unwavering commitment to helping students with developmental disabilities thrive at their jobs, McIntire has also likely earned WCBDD more future levy votes than anyone else through her advocacy efforts and has encouraged businesses to hire people with developmental disabilities.

“I think the most meaningful thing about her is how much she cares,” Manuel said. “She cares about the people we serve. She cares about her coworkers. And she cares about this agency.”

McIntire’s daughter, Jill Rasnic, accepted the award on her mother’s behalf. 

WCBDD Remote Supports and Assistive Technology Coordinator Kellie Hampton was awarded with the Innovation Award for her SMART technology studio, a space resembling a studio apartment that will give visitors the opportunity to learn firsthand about assistive technology’s functionality, the potential benefits, and its role in fostering independence.

Fiscal Coordinator Robin Derickson was awarded the Above and Beyond Award for her willingness to volunteer her time at WCBDD events, including Special Olympics, Trunk-or-Treat, Family Fun Day, DSP Appreciation, the Polar Plunge, and more. 

Manuel said Derickson, “has given hundreds of hours, personal funds and mileage to help where needed to provide meaningful opportunities for individuals served.”

Records and Monitoring Specialist Carolyn Bogenschutz was awarded with the Superintendent Award for her dedication to WCBDD. 

“[Carolyn] is a go-to person who people can always trust to come through for them. She is always willing to assist anyone who needs it, no matter the task and no matter when you need it… She devotes her time and attention to assist that division in accomplishing whatever they need,” Manuel said. “She is an asset to our agency, the Early Intervention program, and she will be missed when she retires.”

The next Superintendent Award was awarded to Service Coordinator Chase Waites for his role as a “quiet leader” in the agency. 

“He remains calm in stressful situations. He is highly committed to successful outcomes for himself, his coworkers, and the people he supports. He remains focused on getting things done while maintaining positive, productive relationships with others,” Manuel said. “I appreciate that even as a fairly new employee, he has jumped in to learn more about his job, his coworkers, and our agency.”

Cronin Auto Group of Lebanon was awarded with the Extraordinary Employer Award for their willingness and excitement to hire and support employees with developmental disabilities. 

Friends of DD Award 

Four community leaders were chosen for the Friends of DD Award, which was created to honor those who go beyond their obligations to support WCBDD and the individuals we serve. 

Tina Vance, a former WCBDD employee, was honored for her contributions to the Warren County Wildcat Cheerleaders. Manuel said Vance strives to create opportunities for everyone who wants to participate, making use of their unique abilities. She has a great rapport with the cheerleaders and their families.

The second Friends of DD award winner was Miami Valley Gaming for their support of Warren County Special Olympics, including raising over $7,000 when they welcomed customers to donate their spare change.

CRANE ChemPharma & Energy was selected to receive the Friends of DD Award after they donated $6,000 to the Warren County Special Olympics.

The last award winner of the Friends of DD was Barry Riley, a board member of seven years, for his commitment to serving on the board. He will be retiring from the board to serve as the next sheriff of Warren County.

For more information, contact Megan Becker at megan.becker@warrencountydd.org or (859) 653-7445.

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