HRC Director, Ash Lemons, explains ramp program

Unprecedented. At least, in the memories of those of us long a part of the Center. Never has a Director of the Rehabilitation Services Commission visited the Ability Center, especially not with the same intent as that of Michael Rench, current Director. As part of his goal to personally visit and dialogue with every Independent Living Center and Deaf Services Center in the state, Director Rench spent a few hours, Monday, with the staff of ACT.

After an orientation of the Center’s philosophy, goals and successes with Center Executive Director, Tim Harrington, he toured the building and grounds, including the Housing Resource Center, where HRC Director, Ash Lemons, explained the workings of it’s Ramp and Nursing Home Transition programs. He then enjoyed observing the first day of Camp Cricket with Director of Youth and Transition, Dawn Petersen, and Camp Director, Shannon Twiggs.

Camp Director, Shannon Twiggs, and Director of Youth/Transition, Dawn Petersen share Camp stories

He ended his morning with a long, open and honest dialogue with staff, ultimately asking two questions: what can RSC do differently to better meet the needs of the Center and its consumers and, what has the Center to offer RSC to help it better accomplish its goal of making lives better for people living with significant disabilities in Ohio?

“It was a pleasant experience listening to Ash talk about the Center, the good people that work here and the phenomenal work being done.” recalled Mr. Rench to the staff, “What I was hearing reflected the passion and soul of the organization. It’s what I listen for; what gets and keeps me going.”

He went on to lament the many agencies he’s experienced over the course of his professional career that have lost touch with their ‘soul’. He then pointed to the noise coming from the dozens of young campers and counselors in the gym. “There lies the real heart and soul of this agency: the people you serve, the people you help to ‘get a life.’”

Director Rench talks philosophy with ACT staff

Michael Rench has a vision. And, it is a vision very much like ours. He knows the importance of seeing the whole person, in the context of their whole lives … not just where they work, but where and how they play, who and how many people they know and interact with, where they live and how they get around. After all, it’s hard to stay employed, to keep enthusiastic about a job, if your world is full of obstacles and out of balance.

He finds many of the answers in creating viable partnerships. Working together, he feels, Centers for Independent Living, RSC and other human service agencies can work to create rich, fulfilling lives and bright futures for people living with disabilities. “It won’t happen overnight,” he is quick to remind us, “It will take time … but it can happen.”

We believe you, Director Rench, and we’re beside you. Now, where do we begin?

Director Rench has a few truly innovative initiatives underway. Stay tuned and we’ll keep you posted as they unfold.