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Latest News

Hannah Testifies in Ohio House Health Committee

4/28/2025

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John Hannah CRSI Consumer Advocate
John Hannah, a dedicated Consumer Advocate at CRSI who receives support through the Champaign County Board of Developmental Disabilities, recently had the honor of testifying before the Ohio House Health Committee on Budget Appropriations for FY 2026-2027.

John delivered a powerful testimony about the importance of having a voice and representing others in these critical conversations. He spoke on the vital roles that Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), county boards, and other organizations play in supporting individuals with disabilities.
​
His words made such an impact that he’s been invited to testify again on April 29th!
​

You can watch John's testimony starting at the 1 hour, 11 minute, and 45 second mark by clicking the link: http://ohiochannel.org/video/ohio-house-health-committee-2-26-2025
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March 2023: Developmental Disabilities Advocacy & Awareness Day at the Ohio Statehouse

3/1/2023

 
On March 1, 2023, community members from Champaign County attended Developmental Disabilities Awareness and Advocacy Day at the Ohio Statehouse in Columbus. They listened to speakers and spoke with their local state representatives. Take a look at their visit. 

ADVOCATE SPOTLIGHT: BIANCA TROPEANO

10/1/2021

 
Getting a Boost from Animal Friends
Written by: Amy Kerrigan, Community Education Specialist
During the pandemic, lockdowns and isolation adversely affected many people. Activities were cancelled and routines were changed. Bianca Tropeano is one such person who noticed a dramatic change in her life. “How did Covid affect my life during the past year? Covid really put my plans on hold.”

Bianca is competitively employed by the Champaign Co Board of DD. And just like many others, she was unable to go to her job for quite a long time.

But Bianca found a way to keep her spirits up and stay busy with new plans. She found activity and fun with her pets. “Covid didn’t really stopped me having fun because I hang out at home with my cat, Lily, and a dog we are fostering named Cy,” said Bianca. She certainly was lucky to have those furry friends around.

The stories of Lily and Cy began when Bianca attended a cat show in Dayton, OH. She saw Lily and spent half her Christmas money to buy the cuddly kitten. Later, Bianca’s family was asked to foster an Alaskan Malamute named Cy. He kept running away from his old home and was eventually sent to the pound. Bianca’s family saved him by taking him in as a foster pet. 

According to the CDC (Centers for Disease Control & Prevention), There are several healthy benefits to having pets. The CDC’s website says, “Studies have shown that the bond between people and their pets can increase fitness, lower stress, and bring happiness to their owners.”

Bianca did not have to conduct a scientific study to notice the same affects. She says, “I hang out with my cat and give her cuddles and love if she shows me that she needs it . When I don’t give her my all, I feel heartless and sad. And when I do give her my all I feel much better. I hang out with [my foster] dog. His name is Cy. My cat and my dog help me to not feel sad, and [they] make me not to feel [like] I’m not doing enough.”

After experiencing pandemic isolation, Bianca is the first to admit how important her furry friends are. “Animals [are] anyone’s best friends... and [animals] give anyone a piece of mind. So that’s how animals help me through emotional and support through difficult times.”

​The Champaign Co Board of Developmental Disabilities thanks Bianca Tropeano for sharing her experience. We hope that many more people can find comfort and purpose in their homes with their own pets.
Photo of Bianca Tropeano at the Champaign County Board of DD office
Photo of Bianca's cat, Lily
Photo of Bianca's foster dog, Cy

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  • Home
  • About Us
    • Our Board >
      • Meeting Minutes
    • Our Staff
    • Join Our Team
  • Services
    • Early Intervention >
      • Child Development Resources
    • Autism & Sensory Resources
    • Community Education and Outreach >
      • Employment Services for Individuals with Disabilities
    • Service & Support Administrators
  • Providers
    • Become a Provider
    • Provider Training
    • Provider Search Tools
  • Resources
    • Latest News
    • Strategic Plan
    • Newsletters
    • Public Resources
  • Contact Us
  • Report an Incident