Category Archives: Uncategorized

A Community Resource for Hope, Healing, and Resilience: The Importance of the Children’s Acute Partial Hospitalization Program 

Communities thrive when children and families have access to the support they need during life’s most challenging moments. For families navigating significant behavioral health and emotional concerns, finding timely, compassionate, and coordinated care can be overwhelming. The Children’s Acute Partial Hospitalization Program at … Continue reading

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What Jimothy the Raccoon Can Teach Us About Building a More Inclusive World 

Every once in a while, an unlikely ambassador captures the hearts of millions. This summer, that ambassador arrived with a stubby tail, a curious face, and a body unlike any other raccoon most of us have ever seen.  Meet Jimothy, a wild raccoon … Continue reading

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Disability Pride Month: Celebrating Choice, Community, and Inclusion 

Every July, Disability Pride Month offers an opportunity to celebrate the strength, resilience, and contributions of people with disabilities while recognizing the ongoing journey toward a more inclusive world. The month commemorates the signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act … Continue reading

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Barber National Institute’s Autism/Special Needs Support Group: Finding Support through Community 

For parents and caregivers of children with autism/special needs, the journey can be filled with both incredible joys and unique challenges. While every family’s experience is different, one thing remains true: no one should have to navigate that journey alone.  That’s why Barber … Continue reading

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Why Extended School Year Matters at the Elizabeth Lee Black School 

For many students, summer is a time to pause. But for the students we serve at the Elizabeth Lee Black School, continued learning is not just beneficial—it’s essential.  Extended School Year (ESY) provides critical continuity for students whose progress depends on … Continue reading

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A Journey of Ability: Discover the Lake Erie Odyssey 

This fall, the Barber National Institute is inviting our community to be part of something truly special—an experience designed to celebrate courage, inclusion, and the limitless potential of every individual.  The Lake Erie Odyssey is a one-of-a-kind adapted obstacle course that will … Continue reading

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Growing Opportunity: The Lasting Impact of PNC Grow Up Great 

I am honored to serve on the PNC Grow Up Great Advisory Council. At a recent meeting, I learned how PNC Grow Up Great continues to make a meaningful and measurable impact on young children, families, educators, and communities across the country.  Through strategic partnerships, … Continue reading

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Jump Back In! Barber National Institute’s Pool is Reopening to the Community

For decades, the Barber National Institute’s community pool has been more than just a place to swim—it has been a welcoming hub where individuals of all ages and abilities come together to learn, grow, and connect. Designed with accessibility at … Continue reading

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A Season of Growth, Celebration, and Possibility 

As the school year draws to a close at the Elizabeth Lee Black School, we pause to reflect—not only on what has been accomplished, but on what it represents.  The end of the school year is always meaningful, but this moment feels … Continue reading

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From Awareness to Action: Carrying the Spirit of Inclusion into May 

As May comes to a close, we find ourselves surrounded by signs of growth—longer days, blooming gardens, and a renewed sense of possibility. It’s a season that reminds us that change doesn’t happen all at once, but through steady care, attention, and intention.  While April holds … Continue reading

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