Finding your Sweet Spot!

by   |   Tue, Nov 17th, 2015


Nate Kamban, TuscBDD Community Relations/Special Projects

One of the greatest joys of parenting, in my opinion, is watching your children find ways to identify their unique gifts and interests. Admittedly, my children are young, but I have already been able to witness them explore their unique bents and find activities which best suit their interests. I like to refer to this journey of self-discovery as "finding the sweet spot!" Frederick Buechner, an American theologian, describes this idea well. "[Your calling] is the place where your deep gladness and the world's deep hunger meet," states Buechner. I love this quote! In my humble opinion, this intersection of a person's deep gladness and a pressing need equals a sweet spot!

At TuscBDD, we are tasked with the incredible, yet daunting, task of helping individuals with developmental disabilities "find their sweet spot." This worthy venture can be challenging as many persons with developmental disabilities have not had the number of experiences and opportunities needed to help identify their unique gifts and interests. This is why TuscBDD, as well as other county boards and disability service providers throughout the state, are diligently working to develop a greater variety of meaningful day activities and vocational opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.

One way in which TuscBDD is seeking to reach this goal is through the hosting of private provider fairs. Private providers are certified agencies that offer specialized services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Examples of private provider agencies here in Tuscarawas County include Horizons, Bradford Homes, Stepping Stone Workshop, Consumer Support Services, SEI and etc. At these provider fairs, individuals with developmental disabilities and their families/guardians have the opportunity to interact with the providers in attendance. Individuals served and their families/guardians can ask questions about the various services and supports provided to help them identify which agency best meets their needs. At the recent transportation provider fair, attendees were able to view and tour the various vehicles that transportation providers offer in Tuscarawas County and speak directly with the employees of these agencies.

I would encourage all individuals and families/guardians served in Tuscarawas County to take some time to learn more about the options that are available to you. Partner with your TuscBDD Service Facilitator to help you with this process. Your Service Facilitator can help arrange visits with the various provider agencies in this county. It may take some time, but let us help you as you identify your "sweet spot."

Again, please do not hesitate to reach out to TuscBDD to learn more about the current system redesign and the many ways in which we can help you! Feel free to contact us at 330-308-7173 or visit us online at www.tuscbdd.org, www.facebook.com/tuscbdd or www.twitter.com/tuscbdd!

Many thanks!

Nate

Tue, Nov 17th, 2015