Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities

02/20/2026

FUN FACT FRIDAY: Provider Partnerships

Fun Fact! Through provider partnerships, BCBDD helps ensure individuals have access to transportation, daily living supports, and community inclusion opportunities across Butler County!

Ability to Thrive is one of our many passionate providers! Watch Superintendent Lee Ann Emmons drop in for a visit!

02/19/2026

Over the weekend, several of our staff members attended Tim Tebow Foundation's A Night to Shine, an unforgettable prom experience for individuals with disabilities, ages 14 and older, hosted by Christ's Church in Mason, Ohio!

Staff who attended A Night to Shine said they were so proud to see so many of the individuals they serve not only dressed to impress, but also smiling big, and of course, lighting up the dance floor!

SSA II, Teresa Rouff, has participated in a Night to Shine for 6 years, and said she absolutely loves everything the event stands for.

"Each year I volunteer, I look forward to seeing the smiles, the personalities, and the incredible love of all those in attendance," Teresa said. "It’s a night that is never about me; it’s about witnessing the joy of those we serve. Seeing everyone dressed up and ready to dance, watching each individual’s uniqueness shine, it’s truly something special. Every year, the night goes by so fast. It’s also heartwarming to know that while their loved ones are celebrating, parents get to enjoy a special evening upstairs with friends, connection, and socialization as well. I’m already looking forward to year seven!"

02/18/2026

Thank you to Valerie Lyons at WCPO 9 for showing who is impacted by our fiscal emergency. Watch the video below and learn more here: https://www.wcpo.com/news/local-news/butler-county/gives-life-meaning-levy-on-the-ballot-as-butler-countys-budget-crisis-threatens-disability-programs?fbclid=IwY2xjawQCnc9leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETJ3TkFDT0dBTkxPYm5qa2pIc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHoeog1DPktRczU_OA3NPlD2v5bWxLVUOmCntjlOK2077iFgpXacPwB2pKso3_aem_Z3ZE-ZpL2x93T9GZ7uWmCw

02/17/2026

We hope you all had an incredible Valentine’s Day weekend! Individuals we serve, BCBDD staff, DSPs, family, and friends kicked off Valentine’s Day weekend on Thursday at our annual Sweetheart Dance at Redeemer Church, Hamilton, Ohio! Those in attendance had a blast dancing the night away with their loved ones! Thanks to all those who made the night so special!

02/16/2026

Wishing everyone a Happy President's Day!

In observation of President's Day, our offices will be closed on Monday, February 16. If you have an emergency and need immediate assistance, please call (513) 867-5913.

02/14/2026

Happy Valentine's Day from our sweethearts to yours! We hope you have a wonderful day filled with love and happiness!

02/13/2026

We are deeply saddened to learn that Dan Darkow passed away on Wednesday, February 11. Dan was the director of the Miller Center for Student Disability Services at Miami University where he was a fierce advocate for people with disabilities.

Courtney Hineman, Community Outreach Advocate, had the honor of interviewing Dan on her vlog, Courtney Explains it All. She shared the following:

We are very saddened by the news of Dan Darkow’s passing. He was caring, thoughtful, and inspired us to keep thinking about how we can improve access and inclusion for people with disabilities.

On a personal note, I am grateful for the times that we got to work together. He will be greatly missed.

Our interview together about the ADA is just one small example of the great impact Dan made.

- Courtney Hineman, Community Outreach Advocate with Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities.

Link to Video:

In the latest vlog episode of Courtney Explains It All, Courtney sits down with Dan Darkow, Director of Miami University's Miller Center for Student Disabili...

02/13/2026

Fun Fact Friday: Transition Team

Fun fact! The BCBDD Transition team works with local schools to support transition planning, helping students with developmental disabilities prepare for life after graduation, including work, community, and independence!

Learn more about BCBDD and transition planning at https://www.butlerdd.org/individuals-families/transitioning-from-school-to-adult-life/

02/11/2026

Courtney Hineman and Lee Ann Emmons describe what supports the 2.0 mills levy would maintain. Nicole Aponte with WLWT was live at Janet Clemmons Center today with this story.

Voters in Butler County will see a levy on their May primary ballot to support those with developmental disabilities.

02/10/2026

LOVE STORY SPOTLIGHT: Melissa Talley and Mike Martin

Melissa and Mike have been together for nearly 25 years. They first met at the Hamilton Center, and then shortly after began going to various BCBDD events together, such as the popular BCBDD event, the Sweetheart Dance. According to Melissa and Mike, "the rest is history!"

Melissa and Mike simply love spending time together, especially when shopping at Costco and attending summer garage sales. Melissa and Mike say they enjoy life side by side. Melissa added that Mike is always fun to be around, and Mike said he’s thankful Melissa “puts up with him!”

Thank you for sharing your love story with us, Melissa and Mike!

02/09/2026

Yesterday, the Miami University Hockey team showed our individuals a wonderful time at our Annual Ice Skating with the Miami RedHawks event! Community Connection Coordinator, Lynn Goodwin, said all those who attended the event had an absolute blast with the Redhawk hockey athletes.

"From our youngest skaters to the adults, it was truly both a fun-filled and memorable day," Lynn said. "The Miami Redhawks made the day extra special, and we are deeply thankful for their support and willingness to connect with our community.”

Thank you, Miami Redhawks, for giving those individuals we serve a fantastic experience on the ice!