The Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities and the Salem Chamber of Commerce met at Lib’s Market in Salem in preparation for an open house and informational day on Oct. 2. Pictured from left are Community Inclusion and Employment Manager Shirley Bowald, Reach for More Administrative Assistant Sarah Hughes, Salem Chamber of Commerce Deputy Director Alicia Johnston, CCBDD Superintendent William Devon, Lib’s Market Owner Ben Ratner, and Business Employment Specialist Paul Anthony. (Submitted photo)

SALEM – Lib’s Market, 474 E. State St., is hosting an informational day from 8:30-11:30 a.m. Thursday, Oct. 2 to highlight the many employment programs offered through the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities (CCBDD). Patrons who visit Lib’s that day can get information about CCBDD’s programs, pick up a gift bag and enjoy a free cup of coffee.

Paul Anthony, CCBDD Business Engagement Specialist, explained that the Board offers a variety of employment programs to assist people with developmental disabilities in reaching their full potential, and noted that services are long-term. The Board offers waiver service case management through their SSA’s; services for young children through the Help Me Grow Program; behavioral supports; community involvement programs like the Aktion Club; and coordination and referral for employment services.

Additionally, CCBDD helps businesses remain abreast of workplace incentives, issues and policies that impact people with developmental disabilities in the workplace. The Board supports businesses who make it a priority to hire people with developmental disabilities by providing long-term follow-along for the employees working in the community. The Board celebrates employment achievement with business and coordinating agencies through the annual Employment Appreciation Dinner.

CCBDD Superintendent William Devon said the goal of the informational day is to educate people on what the Board of Developmental Disabilities does.

“Most people know Robert Bycroft School but they may not realize that the Board has many other programs to support people throughout their lives,” he explained. “Individuals with developmental disabilities are an asset in the workplace because they work hard and take pride in doing their job well.”

Lib’s Market owner Ben Ratner has employed people with disabilities for several years, and said he is happy to provide a location where the Board of Developmental Disabilities could educate the general public. He invites people to stop by to chat and enjoy a good cup of coffee.

“We have so many different kinds of people who come here and they are often looking for ways to continue to be involved in their community. So elevating the Columbiana County Board of Developmental Disabilities to be more of a focus in the community will enable more of our customers to connect with them and assist with their cause,” he said.

Anthony said the people the board serves through its Reach for More employment program have a record of longevity in the workplace.

“We have one man who recently celebrated 18 years of employment,” he said.

Representatives from CCBDD programs will be on hand to provide information to both employers and potential participants.

“I’m inviting everyone who wants more information to stop by Lib’s on Oct. 2. We can assist them in connecting with the appropriate program. And we’ll provide a good cup of coffee while they’re here,” Anthony said.