(Sandusky, OH) - Twelve Warren County disability advocates and county staff recently attended the 2026 Synergy Conference in Sandusky, Ohio. The advocates greatly anticipate this event throughout the year, counting down the days until they can return.

The annual Synergy Conference brings together over 1,000 individuals with and without disabilities to foster collaboration, problem solving, and community connection. This year, two representatives from the Warren County Voices Speaking Out self-advocacy group were selected to lead breakout sessions and share their personal stories.

Michael Yeamans, president of Voices Speaking Out and active member of the Ohio Tech Ambassadors, presented on cybersecurity awareness. Yeamans highlighted common tactics used by hackers and offered guidance on how individuals and companies can better protect themselves online. Throughout his presentation, he emphasized the critical need for digital accessibility and tailored educational resources for individuals with disabilities.

“We need to make the apps work better in regards to accessibility…there needs to be more educational tools and more awareness targeted towards people with disabilities. Elderly people are given great educational opportunities, but people that are disabled do not always have the same tools.”

Aaron Bowman, also a member of Voices Speaking Out, shared his life story and his personal journey of perseverance. At just three years old, doctors initially recommended  institutionalization, but his parents never gave up on him. Supported by his family,  Bowman persevered through years of therapy and appointments. As he neared the end of his speech, Bowman was overcome with emotion as he shared the recent loss of his father. The audience rallied around Bowman with cheers and encouragement, offering the support he needed to finish strong.

“I like to share stories and make people hear about who I am,” Bowman reflected. “People will remember that some people go through hard things and it's okay to ask for help.”

In addition to the informational sessions throughout the conference, participants enjoyed evening festivities such as karaoke, a silent disco, and of course the Glow Dance Party.



Get Involved and Look Ahead:

• Join Voices Speaking Out: The group meets once a month at 6:00 p.m. on the third Tuesday of each month at 801 Drake Road in Lebanon, OH. New members are always welcome. For more information on the group, please contact Advocacy Coordinator, Ellen Hudson at ellen.hudson@warrencountydd.org. 
• Synergy Conference 2027: The next Synergy Conference is scheduled to take place in October 2027 at the Kalahari Resort and Convention Center in Sandusky. More details to come.

For more information, contact Claire Bishop at claire.bishop@warrencountydd.org or (513) 335-1026.