James Jelinek wins Diamond Award

This year’s Diamond Award was given to James Jelinek, a man who for years has been determined to improve his life and the lives of others. The award recognizes an individual with developmental disabilities for their bravery and efforts to advocate for themselves and on behalf of others to achieve their dreams.

“James’ fearless approach to overcoming challenges has been truly inspiring. He has consistently shown resilience and courage in the face of adversity, never hesitating to stand up for his rights and the rights of others,” Megan Jones of the Active Day Center in New Philadelphia said.

Her nomination of Jelinek was read at the breakfast. “His efforts have not only benefited him personally, but have also served as a beacon of hope and strength for those around him.”

Jelinek’s dedication to advocacy also made a significant impact at the Active Day Center.

“His actions have inspired many to follow in his footsteps,” Jones said. “James embodies the spirit of the Diamond Award, and I wholeheartedly believe he deserves this recognition.”

The award and others were given at the annual TuscBDD Breakfast, held each year during March, which is Developmental Disability Awareness Month. The winners are selected by the county commissioners.

The Standing Ovation Award winners were Cheryl and Patrick Snyder, who are the parents of Carol Snyder. This award recognizes the efforts of caregivers who support their loved one with developmental disabilities.

The Ripple Effect Award was presented to Angela Simmerman, APRN-CNP, of Be Well Pediatrics. The award recognizes a business or employer for contributing to the awareness that individuals with disabilities are crucial members of the workforce.

The Better Together Award winner was Kortnee Cameron. The award recognizes a standout direct support professional who demonstrates a dedication to improving the lives of the people they serve.

TuscBDD Superintendent Nate Kamban gave a brief report on the organization, which served more than 800 children and adults with disabilities in Tuscarawas County last year.

“We’re seeing our building become a social service hub. We brought in an autism evaluator to use our space. We have a lending library in the basement. We’ve had some other new partners come in, and it’s been so cool to see our building change and more services offered for the people we serve,” Kamban said. “That’s been a big victory for us.”

Kamban said the TuscBDD is now able to provide autism evaluations for young children. It’s an important addition because families previously would have to wait up to two years to get a referral for the evaluation.

“By then we would miss a really important window to serve our kiddos,” Kamban said. “This has been a game changer.”

Changes at Starlight School have made them a leader in education.

“Even some other counties are sending their kids to us because there isn’t a school like it,” Kamban said.

Thanks to grant funding, the school now has a new sensory room, a sensory dog that works at the school and a new playground. Kamban thanked students from Indian Valley Schools who volunteered 80 hours to paint the new sensory room.

In partnership with Starlight Enterprises, the TuscBDD has opened a Tech House for individuals to try out technology to help them live more independently.

“We’ve already seen some folks who had to have staff come into their homes now use technology to live independently,” Kamban said.

The TuscBDD has been working with area schools.

“We’ve been doing more outreach work into the public schools, helping to keep kids in their public school whenever possible,” Kamban said. “This year we’ve been able to serve every district in our county, which has been exciting.”