OACB's Lisa Comes traveled to Minneapolis with OACB Trustee Marci Straughter (Franklin DD) to present on Ohio’s experience with self-directed transportation at the National Self-Direction Conference, hosted by The Self-Direction Center. As the first national conference dedicated exclusively to self-direction, the event highlighted innovative approaches and emerging trends in the field. Ohio was well represented, contributing at least three breakout sessions on topics including self-directed transportation, the history and implementation of the Synergy Conference—co-presented by Steve Oster (Knox/Coshocton DD) and Jeanne Stuntz (Dynamic Pathways)—and a collaborative panel discussion on “Advancing Self-Direction” featuring representatives from the Ohio Department of Medicaid, Ohio Department of Aging, The Ability Center of Greater Toledo, the Ohio Olmstead Task Force, and provider organizations. The conference provided valuable opportunities for learning, collaboration, and showcasing Ohio’s leadership in self-direction initiatives.
Pictured left to right: Jules Patalita, Patrick McNamara, Brandi Nicholson, Lisa Comes, Jennifer Kucera, Steve Oster, Jamie Watkins, Marci Straughter, Marilyn Curtis, and Jeanne Stuntz