Pioneer Center / Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities

10/30/2026

National Disability Employment Awareness Month is an opportunity to recognize the contributions of employees with disabilities and the employers who support inclusive workplaces.

RCBDD offers resources and support to local employers interested in hiring individuals with developmental disabilities. Employer training opportunities and applicable tax deduction or incentive programs are also available to help businesses build inclusive workplaces.

Preparing individuals for successful employment begins well before they enter the workforce.

Through Project LIFE, Pioneer School and School Services students in Ross County have opportunities to develop essential employment and independent living skills as they prepare for life after graduation.

Project SEARCH provides additional job skills training and work-transition opportunities for eligible students in Ross and Pickaway counties, helping bridge the gap between school and competitive employment.

These programs help students build confidence, gain practical experience and develop the skills necessary to pursue meaningful employment after leaving school.

Businesses interested in learning more about inclusive hiring, employment resources, training opportunities, or available incentives are always able to contact us, as these partnerships represent the importance of recognizing the value every individual brings to their community.

Ed Williams' six-year perfect attendance record at Texas Roadhouse is being celebrated during National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

10/30/2026

Our final Employment Spotlight for National Disability Employment Awareness Month is our very own Hunter Robinson. Hunter currently works for the Southern Ohio Council of Governments and serves as a volunteer board member for the Ross County Board of Developmental Disabilities. Throughout his career, Hunter has held various roles across Chillicothe, building an impressive résumé, a strong professional network, and a reputation for leadership and advocacy.

Hunter doesn't allow his cerebral palsy diagnosis to define what he can accomplish. Instead, he uses his experiences to create opportunities, spark meaningful conversations, and advocate for positive change.

Through his involvement with the Capital City Crusaders Advocacy Group, Hunter helps champion the group's mission of building a more inclusive and accessible Ross County, where individuals with developmental disabilities have the same opportunities to work, participate, and live fulfilling lives in their community.

Hunter is a wonderful reminder that meaningful employment is about more than earning a paycheck. It's about independence, purpose, connection, and having a voice in your community.

As we close out , we want to thank Hunter, all of the individuals we've highlighted this month, and the local employers who recognize the value of an inclusive workforce. We were only able to just scratch the surface of all our wonderful employees and employers here in Ross County.

Together, we're building a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive!

10/29/2026

10/29/2026

Athlete. Olympian. Philanthropist. Employee.

These are just a few of the words that describe Kaitlyn Brown!

Kaitlyn is determined to be the best she can be in everything she does, and her work ethic is a reflection of that dedication. When she isn't giving back to her community through volunteer work or swimming with Special Olympics, you can find her hard at work with Adena Health at their Adena Pike Medical Center.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month ( ) gives us the opportunity to celebrate individuals like Kaitlyn who are thriving in meaningful employment while pursuing their passions and making a difference in their communities.

It's also a reminder that when you recognize someone's abilities and potential rather than focusing on their disability, you might just find yourself hiring an absolute rockstar!

10/28/2026

Did you know that local and state government agencies are also inclusive employers of individuals with disabilities?

The Ohio Department of Transportation Southern Ohio District 9 is a great example! In addition to employing individuals at rest areas, ODOT provides employment opportunities within its local offices.

Meet Douglas! Douglas works at the local ODOT office, where he's no stranger to the fast-paced environment. He takes pride in his work and loves spreading joy and positivity among his colleagues!

As we continue celebrating National Disability Employment Awareness Month ( ), we're grateful for employers like ODOT who recognize the talents and contributions of individuals with disabilities, and help create more inclusive opportunities.

10/28/2026

Instead of a Halloween movie, try a virtual trip with We Thrive Together Ohio!

Join the Willoughby Ghost Walk at 1 P.M. for a spooky adventure through this Northeast Ohio town! Discover local history, fascinating folklore, and a few ghostly tales along the way. It's the perfect mix of history and paranormal excitement!

To participate in this program- or any other WTT programming- visit https://wethrivetogether.org/bulldogs/event-list/

10/27/2026

Come walk, roll, or stroll with us in this year's Jaycees Downtown Chillicothe Halloween Parade!

Anyone receiving services through The Pioneer Center is welcome to join us! Costumes are optional, so feel free to dress up in your Halloween best or show your Pioneer pride by wearing your Pioneer Center, Pioneer School, Special Olympics, or Capital City Crusaders gear!

Ready to join the fun? Register by scanning the QR code on the flyer or filling out the form here: https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/DbRh31DvwX

Registration helps us share important details with participants, including where and when to line up for the parade.

We can't wait to see everyone on Saturday!

🎃👻

10/27/2026

Ohio University Chillicothe's Trunk or Treat is tonight!

Stop by Bennett Hall parking lot from 6–7:30 P.M. for some Halloween fun!

10/26/2026

Get into the Halloween spirit with a fun and festive craft class tonight!

We Thrive Together Ohio is hosting Witch Painting tonight at 6 P.M.!

Ross County residents can join in on the creative fun for FREE from the comfort of home!

Check out this class and other free virtual opportunities here: https://wethrivetogether.org/bulldogs/event-list/

10/23/2026

Both Kroger locations in Ross County have demonstrated a commitment to inclusive employment, providing meaningful job opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities!

One of those employees is Greg Cox, who has worked at Kroger for more than 35 years! Throughout his career, Greg has taken pride in his work and has been a dependable, valued member of the team. His employment has also allowed him to maintain independence, both in his job duties and in getting himself to and from work.

As Greg looks forward to his upcoming retirement, we're celebrating his incredible career and the importance of inclusive employment during (National Disability Employment Awareness Month).

Congratulations on more than 35 years of hard work, Greg