WCBDD Hosts Annual Agency In-service and Awards

Claire Bishop • November 5, 2026

Date: November 5, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:

Contact: Claire Bishop, Community Relations Coordinator, (513) 335-1026

Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities

410 S. East Street, Lebanon, OH 45036

www.warrencountydd.org

(Lebanon, OH) - The Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) held its annual agency in-service in October, bringing together staff for a day of collaboration, professional development, and celebration. During the event, WCBDD Superintendent Megan Manuel presented awards to 13 standout individuals, community partners, local businesses, and staff members for their contributions to the community.

Friends of DD Award

Each year, WCBDD honors local community members and organizations that make a lasting impact throughout the disability community. First, Officer Dan Dean was recognized for educating individuals served by WCBDD on safety and fostering positive relationships with law enforcement.

The next award winner is Rivers Crossing Church. Rivers Crossing Church was honored for donating $1,000 annually over the past two years to sponsor the WCBDD Kings Island Day, allowing more than 100 individuals with disabilities each year to enjoy the park free of charge.

Following Rivers Crossing Church, Detective Amanda Myers was recognized for her fierce advocacy and protection of an individual served by the agency during a difficult situation.

Although they weren’t able to receive this award in person, Jersey Mike’s Subs was honored for selecting Special Olympics for their annual Month of Giving. They not only donated a portion of their proceeds throughout March, but they gave 100% of their sales made on March 25 to Special Olympics.

Finally, the Bailey family was recognized for their generosity. They are known at WCBDD events for their smiling faces and generous snack donations. The Bailey family continues to go above and beyond to make sure snacks do not run out and that every attendee has something to eat even when other food is provided.

Extraordinary Employer

Co-labr8 received the Extraordinary Employer Award for creating a fully accessible, inclusive coworking environment. Co-labr8 models community integration by actively employing individuals of all abilities and working to find ways to be more accommodating each day.

Rachel Rice Advocacy Award

Voices Speaking Out self-advocate Hailey Friday was awarded the Rachel Rice Advocacy Award, named in memory of Warren County advocate Rachel Rice who passed away in 2022. Although Friday could not be present to accept the award in person, her parents accepted the award on her behalf. Friday was recognized for her growing independence, leadership in her work at Proctor & Gamble, and dedication to helping others find their voice.

Superintendent Award

Superintendent Megan Manuel presented two Superintendent Awards this year. The first recipient of the Superintendent award was Developmental Specialist, Margaret Cunningham, affectionately known as “Miss Margaret”. She has dedicated almost 20 years to serving Warren County children and their families, offering lifelong lessons along the way.

The final recipient of the Superintendent Award was Community Integration Coordinator, Rhonda Schutte. Schutte works day and night, rarely having a full day to herself, to make sure she has an opportunity or a special item for every individual who is served by WCBDD. Whether it be Special Olympics sports, a themed Bingo night, or organizing a Christmas Drive for the individuals who need a little extra cheer during the holiday season, Schutte makes the impossible happen.

Above and Beyond Award

Maintenance Specialist Robert Abbott received the Above and Beyond Award for organizing and hosting the annual Jeep Show fundraiser. Through his efforts and local business partnerships, Abbott has raised the funds for three consecutive years to ensure individuals served by WCBDD can enjoy a free day at Kings Island.

Sunshine Award

Human Resources Specialist Diane Goetz received the Sunshine Award, previously known as the Green Hat Award. Goetz was honored for her consistent optimism, support, and encouragement of her fellow colleagues.

Innovation Award

Remote Support and Assistive Technology Coordinator Susan Meyer was awarded the Innovation Award for expanding the agency’s SMART Studio. Meyer secured a second Innovative Technology Grant, providing the agency with another opportunity to expand the Studio and opened two paid internship positions at the SMART Studio for individuals served by WCBDD. She consistently finds ways to increase independence, improve access, and enhance quality of life with the use of assistive technology.

Dave Farmer Award

Recently retired Carol Heil was awarded the Dave Farmer award for her years of work and dedication to individuals with developmental disabilities. Heil served the county for 31 years and supported the individuals with their housing needs and various other needs. She has worn many different hats over the years, but in every position she showed how much she truly cares about the individuals.

Years of Service Recognition

In addition to these awards, WCBDD also celebrated staff members who reached milestone years of service.

5-Year Service Awards