Note: This Superintendent’s Message accompanies the winter edition of the LCBDD newsletter Momentum, which will be available in mid-February.  If you would like to receive this newsletter and be added to our mailing list, contact Anna Jeffries at 740-322-6911 or anna.jeffries@lcountydd.org. To read it online click here.

Since joining LCBDD at the end of October 2025, I’ve been getting familiar with our organization and partnerships.

It is no light task, given our 100 staff members, dozens of processes and procedures and the countless local and regional organizations that support our agency.

However, in just a few months, I have already discovered that LCBDD and the greater Licking County community set the standard across Ohio for inclusion and organizational stewardship.

Throughout my career, I’ve worked with nearly half of Ohio’s county boards and numerous school districts throughout Ohio. I feel confident stating LCBDD’s internal practices, knowledgeable leadership team, high-quality staff and supportive community partners and elected officials create one of the best performing Boards in the state.

Our focus on meeting the needs of those we support at various ages and stages — as well as our supports for providers, technology, community engagement and advocacy — sets us apart and allows our entire system of stakeholders to support inclusion and

independence.

I am excited to join LCBDD as our current strategic plan comes to an end in 2026. Throughout this year, we will build a variety of opportunities for people and families served, partners and staff to provide input into LCBDD’s priorities for 2027 through 2029.

Our focuses will include building an inclusive Licking County through education, housing, and hiring practices; supporting advocacy skill development and opportunities for self-advocates to be heard and connecting families with each other for peer support and mentorship.

Regardless of how you support or are supported by LCBDD, please feel empowered to share your story and vision for an inclusive Licking County.

The first stakeholder group we will be targeting are the families and caregivers of children and youth with disabilities. Of the roughly 2,700 people we serve, roughly two-thirds of them are under 21. Many of these families are engaging with LCBDD for the first time or recently received a disability diagnosis for their child. Their experiences are important to us.

Please take a moment to click here to respond to our short survey. Over the next few months, you may see this survey at community events or receive it from your Service Coordinator. We need your vision of an inclusive Licking County to guide our organization.

Our strength is in our community. LCBDD is a crucial component of Licking County to many people served, but also to partners and organizations who join us in supporting people with disabilities and their families. By staying connected with LCBDD through social media, our website, and your assigned staff member, you’ll be able to see how the feedback you provide is shaping our future.

Contact Superintendent/CEO Alex Corwin by calling 740-349-6588 or send him an email at: Alex.Corwin@lcountydd.org.