Pioneer Center / Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities

02/06/2026

02/05/2026

Last month, Keith’s Law (Ohio HB 144) officially went into effect in Ohio.

So, what is Keith’s Law?

Keith’s Law establishes a voluntary statewide database that allows Ohioans with disabilities to submit a disability verification form. This information can then be accessed by all 9-1-1 systems across Ohio, helping first responders better understand and support individuals during emergencies.

To learn more about how the database works and who can participate, visit the Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities dedicated webpage:
🔗 https://ood.ohio.gov/laws-rules-and-policies/laws/hb144

02/04/2026

It’s February already⁉️

Time seems to be moving fast and slow all at once—especially with the snowpocalypse Southern Ohio has been dealing with. ❄️

Even if Punxsutawney Phil and Buckeye Chuck are calling for six more weeks of winter, we’re not slowing down! We’re staying connected and getting ready for DD Awareness Month.

Check out what’s happening this month at the Ross County Board of DD!

02/02/2026

This is for the caregivers, the providers, the inclusion leaders in our community, and the distinguished individuals navigating life through developmental disabilities. We want to honor YOU!

Submit your nominations for our annual Pioneer Center Award Banquet, taking place on Fri., Mar. 20, 2026. Nominations close Feb. 20.

https://rossdd.org/awards/

01/30/2026

Our Ross County branches proudly presented their Jeans Day donation to The Pioneer Center / Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities! Jeans Day lets our team members give back in a meaningful way, and we’re grateful to support an organization that strengthens our community. ❤️👖

The Pioneer Center, otherwise known as Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities (RCBDD), exists for the purpose of improving the quality of life for citizens who have a developmental disability. RCBDD is committed to providing quality services that give individuals and their families choices that enhance community participation and achieve a life of increasing capabilities.

01/28/2026

It may be cold and gloomy outside, but we’ve got something bright to look forward to! ❄️➡️🌟

We’re excited to share our March 2026 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Event Calendar! This year’s lineup includes programming for all ages, with opportunities to learn, celebrate, and come together as a community.

The month kicks off with our Annual Art Show at The Pump House Center for the Arts, followed by our Developmental Disabilities Awareness Walk the very next day. We’ll wrap things up with one of our favorite traditions - the Special Olympics Ohio - Ross County Celebrity Game! 🏀

Keep an eye on our social media and website as we roll out more details for each event.

Don’t forget! DD Awareness Month shirts are still available, but preorders are closing soon. Visit our website for information on how to order yours:
https://rossdd.org/order-your-2026-dd-awareness-month-shirt-today/

01/28/2026

Michael and Patrick get to interview Noah Hiles from Ross County Board of DD. Noah is the 2025 Ohio Special Olympic Athlete of the Year. We met at the November Ohio Association of County Boards Annual Conference at lunch. Noah is the real deal. He is an advocate, athlete, and overall great human bei...

01/27/2026

Our administrative building will be closed again tomorrow, January 27, 2026.

As always, you can contact our SSA line any time at (740) 775-7044, or contact your SSA/primary point of contact directly.

01/26/2026

The Pioneer Center / Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities Administrative Building will be closed tomorrow, January 26, 2026.

If you need immediate assistance, please contact your SSA or main point of contact. You can also reach out to our main SSA line at (740) 775-7044.

01/20/2026

Award nominations are now open for our annual Pioneer Center Awards Banquet. Do you know someone who has made a significant impact on our community? Nominate them today at https://rossdd.org/awards

01/20/2026

Due to conditions that the dictionary would agree are uncomfortably low for humans, The Pioneer School will be operating on a two-hour delay tomorrow morning (Jan. 20). Stay warm!

01/16/2026

Our Administrative Building and Pioneer School and School Services will be closed Mon., Jan. 19, 2026, in honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day.