TuscBDD History
Before 1950, children and adults with developmental disabilities had little opportunity to become educated or trained for jobs. Public school systems and local businesses excluded them. TuscBDD arose from a grassroots effort by parents and concerned citizens in 1955 to provide educational services to 12 children with developmental disabilities through the creation of Starlight School. This was the first hope for many to remain outside institutions and still receive services.
Over time, Starlight School has evolved into TuscBDD, which is a publicly funded county governmental entity offering an array of programs for over 600 eligible individuals. Regardless of our size, name, and funding sources, our purpose has remained the same ~ quality services to eligible individuals for all life stages.
Ohio's County Boards History
County Boards of Developmental Disabilities are responsible for developing person-centered plans that identify the supports that will help an individual achieve their goals, and connect individuals with the providers and funding needed to implement those person-centered plans. Each of Ohio’s 88 counties has a County Board, which is accredited by the Department of Developmental Disabilities (DODD). Ohio’s County Boards were established in the 1960's as a way to transition people with developmental disabilities out of long-term institutional care and integrate them into their local communities. County Boards are funded by a mixture of local, state, and federal dollars.