Graphic shows hands grasping each other. Text on the graphic reads: ARPA grant expands access: $600,000+ in funds creates invaluable improvements throughout Butler County

BCBDD Uses $600k + in ARPA funds to expand access for Butler Co. residents with developmental disabilities

One-time grant expands opportunities throughout Butler County

Hamilton, Ohio – In 2024, the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities (BCBDD) was awarded over $600,000 in American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) funds and has strategically invested those dollars to improve access, inclusion, and opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Butler County. The project’s final efforts are now coming to fruition.

Expanding Accessibility with Universal Changing Tables

Approximately $150,000 of the grant was dedicated to the purchase and installation of universal changing tables—also known as adult changing tables—which are vital for many individuals with disabilities to fully access public spaces. According to the Universal Changing Table Map, Butler County previously had no public facilities equipped with these essential resources. BCBDD has now purchased 11 universal changing tables to be installed at accessible, high-traffic community locations including:

  • Spooky Nook Sports, Hamilton
  • Fitton Family YMCA, Hamilton
  • MidPointe Library, West Chester
  • VOA Park, West Chester
  • Inspiration Studios, Hamilton (for members only)
  • EastSeals HUB (for members only)

Additional sites across the county will be announced as installation is completed.

Each location will be listed on a national map featuring all publicly accessible universal changing tables. That can be found here.

“It is easy to take for granted something so simple as having a public restroom available to you. For many of the people we support, these universal changing tables will profoundly impact their ability to spend time in their community with dignity,” said Sherry Dillon, Community Services Director at the Bulter County Board of Developmental Disabilities. “We are grateful to our partners who are helping us by adding this resource and therefore creating better opportunities for Butler County residents to access our community.” Dillon headed the effort to add UCTs throughout the Butler County.

Building Inclusive Community Experiences

Another portion was allocated to create inclusive recreational opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families—addressing barriers that often lead to social isolation. In 2024, these funds provided:

  • 128 Dayton Dragons game experiences (including parking and concessions)
  • 75 gift cards to Pohlman Lanes (with concessions)
  • 150 Skateway roller rink admissions
  • 140 Pump It Up admissions
  • 150 Butler County Fair admissions (including food and ice cream vouchers)
  • 100 tickets to Neiderman Family Farm’s Fall Festival
  • 140 Riverbend concert experiences (with artists like Janet Jackson, Dan & Shay, and Kidz Bop)
  • 150 family admissions to EnterTRAINment Junction
  • 40 gift cards for Pinball Garage

Supporting Unserved and Underserved Communities

Part of the grant was dedicated to equity and access: BCBDD translated vital materials into multiple languages to help ensure no one in Butler County is left behind due to language barriers.

Investing in Supported Connections and Assistive Technology

A significant portion was designated to the “Supported Connections” initiative providing funds for BCBDD’s Family Support Services (FSS) Program, which provides personalized resources to individuals and families based on their unique needs.

Additional funds were invested in assistive and smart technologies designed to support independence and safety for individuals with developmental disabilities. Items purchased included smart refrigerators and smart ovens. These tools empower individuals with disabilities to live more independently and safely, with greater control over their daily routines.

About the Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities

The Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities provides services and supports to over 4,200 Butler County residents. Supports and services are available life-long through partner agencies or directly provided by the Board. The Board’s primary source of funding is from property tax levies collected annually and the Board was last on the ballot in 2004.

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