When you or someone you love is diagnosed with a developmental disability, it can feel overwhelming. There are many questions that need answers, and answers that can create more questions. You can take comfort in knowing that the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities (LCBDD)/Deepwood can guide you every step of the way. 

As a first step to find answers, the LCBDD’s Service and Support Administration (SSA) team helps identify and review services needed for a safe, healthy, and enriched life. The process begins with determining eligibility and assessing an individual’s specific needs. The SSA team collects information to assist with completing assessments and identifying available resources. 

Broadmoor School is the educational component of the LCBDD and provides services for children from birth to 22 years. This includes early intervention, an integrated preschool program, and instruction for school-age students (with an option to attend the Lake Education and Employment Program for students age 16–22 years). Starting services earlier can lead to significant improvements in development, setting students on a path towards a brighter future.

Individualized services focus on advancing social, leisure, employment, and independent living skills to help eligible individuals obtain desired outcomes. Whether it’s a service supported by the County Board or provided by a Home and Community Based-Services (HCBS) Waiver Provider partner, the goal is to promote choices and skill-building experiences. 

For example, connections can be made with businesses that embrace inclusive hiring. By leveraging employment navigation supports from the LCBDD and receiving guidance from Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD), Andrew Vogt thrives as he coordinates menu orders from patients at University Hospitals.  

The LCBDD’s vision is to offer Lake County citizens the highest-quality, most-inclusive, collaborative, and person-centered services and supports available within available resources. 

To learn more, visit www.LakeBDD.org, connect on social media @DeepwoodLakeDD, or call 440-350-5100.