Written by TruCare on July 25, 2025. Posted in TruCare Connection Newsletters

Spotlight on Cincinnati Pride Festival: Celebrating Every Identity

In June, TruCare Provider Services proudly joined the vibrant crowds at the Cincinnati Pride Festival. With countless rainbow flags, our team connected with hundreds of community members, many who are both members of the LGBTQ+ and Disability Communities. Being there wasn’t just symbolic; it was a declaration that every part of who we are deserves celebration and support.

Disability and LGBTQ+ status aren’t separate experiences, they overlap in ways that shape access, well-being, and community integration. People with disabilities who also identify as LGBTQ+ often face unique challenges, from finding accessible safe spaces to overcoming combined stigma. By showing up at Pride, we acknowledged those dual identities and affirmed that TruCare stands for inclusion in its fullest sense.

Throughout the festival, our awesome staff volunteers engaged in conversations about the park’s unique accessibility, shared information about our services, and listened to your stories. As we reflect on Cincinnati Pride, let’s carry forward the lessons learned: true inclusivity requires more than ramps, it needs empathy, awareness, and ongoing dialogue. We invite everyone to keep discussing disability needs in our communities. Together, we can ensure every celebration truly embraces the full spectrum of the human experience.

Watch our social media to learn more about our involvement in community events near you!

Red, White, and Bloom into Independence with Clermont County Board of DD Services

In July, the entire TruCare Provider Services IT staff and others hosted our interactive tech home at the Thomas A. Wildey School for the 2025 Red, White & Bloom into Independence Tech Fair. 

Attendees were able to walk through the tech home and see first hand how technology helps enhance an individual’s independence while living alone or with assistance. This event is held annually and it is an excellent opportunity to see how quickly technology is changing to meet the needs of people in the developmental disability community. 

If you are interested in a tour, contact the Clermont County Board of Developmental Disabilities at (513)732-7000.

Tech Tip Spotlight: RogerVoice–Empowering Phone Conversations for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing

For many of us, making a phone call is second nature. But for individuals who are deaf or hard of hearing, traditional phone conversations can be a significant barrier to connection.

RogerVoice is a mobile app available on both Android and iOS that provides real-time captions for phone calls. Using advanced voice recognition, the app transcribes spoken words into text instantly, allowing users to read what the other person is saying as the conversation unfolds.

How it works:

• When a user makes or receives a call through the RogerVoice app, the spoken dialogue is transcribed live on the screen.
• If the user prefers not to speak, they can type their responses using the Text-to-Speech feature. RogerVoice will then vocalize the typed message to the person on the other end.
• The app works over Wi-Fi or mobile data, and no special equipment is required, just a smartphone and the app.
• Free to use when calling other RogerVoice users, must purchase call credits for other calls

A user can call their doctor’s office, read the receptionist’s responses in real time, and type back questions or confirmations. You can confidently handle work calls with accurate and fast transcription. From calling a bank to ordering takeout, RogerVoice makes routine interactions more accessible and independent.

Unlike traditional relay services that rely on a third-party, RogerVoice offers direct and private communication experiences. It’s also FCC-certified, ensuring quality and reliability for users across the U.S.

Eligible users with hearing loss can download RogerVoice for free and begin making captioned calls right away. The app includes 30 free minutes of outgoing calls in the first year, with additional plans available as needed.

Letter from a Director – Clarisa Leveridge: ADA Director        

Hello wonderful people! I am Clarisa Leveridge and I would like to share with you features of our Adult Day Services Program at TruCare. I have been the director of this program for two years. We are a recreation and leisure program with a centralized goal of building independence and creating friendships that will last a lifetime. We are a community-oriented organization–meaning we spend a lot of our time in neighboring communities to participate in various activities. Some of our activities include, but are not limited to, Top Golf, volunteering at New Life Thrift Store, going to the movies, Dave & Buster’s, attending music therapy, yoga club, attending museums and so much more! We love being active in our community and are always looking for new, fun opportunities to explore! Outside our regular weekly activities, we plan one major event each month, encouraging everyone to attend. For July, we had a watergun fight and potluck style lunch to celebrate the 4th! We are centrally located, across the street from Sharon Woods, and our program runs from 10AM – 3PM, Monday through Friday. If you are looking for a program, we’d love to grow our friendship circle! Schedule a tour with us today!

Schedule a tour at: [email protected]

Bridging the Digital Device: Spectrum Internet Assist Empowers Adults with Developmental Disabilities

In our connected world, reliable home internet isn’t optional, it’s essential. For adults with developmental disabilities, it unlocks vital services like telehealth consultations, virtual day programs, online job training, digital social groups, and skill-building resources. Affordable and dependable internet access is a catalyst for independence, inclusion, and self-advocacy.

Spectrum Internet Assist is a discounted broadband plan designed for qualifying low-income households. For just $25 per month, subscribers receive reliable 50 Mbps download speeds, fast enough to stream video appointments, participate in interactive classes, and connect with family and friends online.

Why it Matters for Adults with Developmental Disabilities

• Telehealth & Remote Supports: Enables online therapy sessions, medication management, and check-ins with care coordinators without traveling.
• Virtual Day & Employment Programs: Opens doors to remote day habilitation, job coaching, and online vocational workshops.
• Social Inclusion: Reduces isolation by supporting video calls, digital clubs, and social media engagement.
• Digital Literacy: Builds confidence in using apps for transportation, assistive technology, and independent living tools.
• Emergency Preparedness: Ensures timely access to safety alerts, crisis hotlines, and support networks when needed.

Who Qualifies?

A household member must participate in one of the following assistance programs:

• National School Lunch Program (NSLP) or it’s Community Eligibility Provision (CEP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI) for seniors age 65+

By targeting these groups, Spectrum Internet Assistance ensures those facing financial hardship can still connect at home.

How to Apply?

1. Visit the Spectrum Internet Assist page:
    https://www.spectrum.com/internet/spectrum-internet-assist
2. Gather required documentation: proof of NSLP/CEP participation or SSI benefits.
3. Complete the online application, uploading your documents.
4. Await approval, most applications are processed within days, and enjoy no-contract service with free modem rental.

Don’t let cost barriers keep you offline. Spectrum Internet Assist offers a straightforward way for eligible adults with developmental disabilities to stay connected, engaged, and empowered. Head to the application page today and open the door to digital independence.

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Written by TruCare on January 1, 2025. Posted in TruCare Connection Newsletters

Remote and Assistive Technology: Enhancing Safety, Independence, and Efficiency

Benefits for Individuals: Safety and Independence

Remote monitoring and assistive technology provide individuals with a layer of security and support that fosters both safety and independence. By having access to real- time monitoring and assistance, individuals can:

• Feel Safe at Home: Devices like Ring Doorbells, cameras, and Yo-Link Fobs allow for immediate intervention or notification in case of emergencies, giving individuals peace of mind.
• Access Support on Demand: Remote Support enables individuals to reach out for assistance during or after traditional support hours, empowering them to handle situations without needing someone physically present at all times.
• Foster Independence: Tools like iPads and smart assistants (e.g., Echo Dot) help individuals manage daily tasks such as reminders, communication, and environmental controls, promoting self-reliance.

Enhancing Staff Efficiency

Integrating Remote Support with traditional in-person Home and Personal Care (HPC) staff has proven to improve operational efficiency:

• Streamlining Tasks: Remote monitoring reduces the need for in-person check- ins, allowing HPC staff to focus on more personalized and essential care tasks.
• Proactive Interventions: Alerts from assistive tech can notify staff about potential issues (e.g., falls, missed medication), enabling timely interventions and minimizing risks.
• Improved Coordination: Remote and HPC staff can work together seamlessly, ensuring a cohesive approach to supporting individuals.

By combining safety, independence, and efficiency, Remote and Assistive Technology is not only transforming the lives of individuals who rely on support but also shaping the future of caregiving. As these tools continue to grow and evolve, the possibilities for empowering individuals and streamlining services are virtually limitless.

Obtaining an Ohio ID

Anyone of any age has historically been able to obtain an Ohio ID. One can do so by providing the necessary information to the Ohio BMV in exchange for a nominal fee. An ID is often requested when flying, purchasing alcohol, using checks, and other day-to- day transactions.

As of May 7, 2025 individuals will be required to present a compliant ID to officials at the airport and to enter federal premises. A compliant ID requires more security documentation, including full legal name, date of birth, social security number, and proof of legal presence. Documents you need to provide to substantiate the aforementioned requirements include your birth certificate, social security card, and any additional forms of legal ID. Other documentation will be required to provide proof of residency. Check with your local Ohio BMV office as to what they may require for this proof.

The Ohio driver’s license and identification cards are no longer immediately received by you at your local BMV office. The new identification card will be mailed to you several days after you purchase it. You should plan ahead should you have an immediate need for use of the identification card.

The law requiring compliant IDs was enacted in the Real ID Act of 2005. Several deadlines requiring compliance have come and passed. It is believed that this will be the last extension to get your card.

Announcing Studio 42

In December…TruCare Provider Services announced the inauguration of Studio 42, it’s new state of the art video podcast studio. Members of the TruCare family will participate in the production of podcasts, social media videos, and productions on self-advocacy declarations. The studio is equipped to produce video podcasts and enable our staff to record inhouse training videos in digital format with the help of remote cameras and a teleprompter.

Studio 42 will be an expanding tool of expression for people supported by TruCare Provider Services. Serving all 88 counties in Ohio, individuals supported by TruCare will enhance their communication skills and develop technical expertise. Who knows – maybe someday someone learning in Studio 42 could be placed on a local county board to be an advocate for adults with developmental disabilities.

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Written by TruCare on May 7, 2025. Posted in TruCare Connection Newsletters

What does it mean to be a “Technology First” state?

Technology First is “a framework for systems change where technology is considered first in the discussion of support options available to individuals and families through person-centered approaches to promote meaningful participation, social inclusion, self-determination and quality of life,” as defined by Tanis (2019). Put simply, the Technology First movement is the idea that, as we plan how to best support individuals with a disability, we start by looking at how technology can help. Instead of adding on technology as an afterthought, technology is brought up as a priority when planning services. The goal is to use technology in ways that help people be more independent, stay connected to their support systems, make choices about their own lives, and improve their overall well-being.

From Technology to Empowerment

Anthony Hall has received remote support monitoring from TruCare Provider Services since 2024. He utilizes scheduled reminders and assistive technology from his Remote Support staff to manage his daily schedule. Anthony has embraced remote support services to give him more control in his day-to-day life. With his remote team, Anthony has been able to transform his living space to be safer and more independent. In his free time, Anthony is a collector of old radios and cameras and enjoys going antiquing. 

Last week, he attended the Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities Awards banquet. Surrounded by support from his family, and a few people from his TruCare team, Anthony received the Technology Empowerment Award for his use of assistive technology for self-advocacy and independence. Thank you to Kelly Hampton, from Warren County Board of Developmental Disabilities, for presenting Anthony’s award and acknowledging all his hard work. Anthony’s extraordinary achievements are his own, but at TruCare, our Remote Monitoring team is committed to improving outcomes and facilitating the success of each and every individual we serve. Our goal will always be to support our individuals in developing the skills that will allow the most independence possible. Congratulations Anthony!

Inaugural Studio 42 Video Podcasts

On Friday, February 21, 2025, we celebrated the completion of our new “Studio 42 Video Podcast Center”. The podcast center is complete with a RODE podcaster module, adjustable LED lighting, remote wireless 4K digital video cameras, elevating tables and chairs, wired and wireless professional microphones and green screen. We have assembled the technical tools necessary to move TruCare Provider Services into our next growing phase.

We were excited to kick-off Studio 42 with our honorable guests, US Congressman Greg Landsman, and Hamilton County Commissioner President Denise Driehaus. Joe Hoefker interviewed Congressman Landsman. Tom Gugel and Diana Mairose interviewed Commissioner Driehaus. Congressman Landsman and Commissioner Driehaus are longtime advocates of people with developmental disabilities. Congressman Landsman, whose mother was a teacher for students with developmental disabilities, and Commissioner Driehaus both have participated and backed significant legislation and acts that support people with developmental disabilities. If you would like to see their interviews, go to our website at www.tcpsinc.org.

Studio 42 will help TruCare reach several goals over the next few years. Foremost, individuals will develop self-esteem, improve their speaking and script writing skills, and will have a tool to self-advocate. The videos will be accessible on social media and podcast platforms and enable TruCare to empower their voices to speak about their personal goals and what their life experiences having a developmental disability is like.  Human resources will utilize the studio to create in-house training videos. The use of in-house produced videos will help standardize our orientations and training, ensuring everyone gets the same information. Staff will utilize a teleprompter to improve the training videos quality.

During a December State of Ohio Assistive Technology meeting, survey results indicated that SSA’s, individuals, and their families/guardians, believed they did not receive adequate information on available assistive technology and instruction on how to use it. We have created a white box studio in which we will record a demonstration of our core technology and discuss its negative/positive aspects and give instructions on how to use the technology. This will help individuals overcome the fear factor surrounding the use of technology support and will enhance our service process.

We look forward to discovering future uses of our studio center as we embrace this technical leap in our service offerings.

STABLE Accounts are providing the tools needed to invest in your future

STABLE Accounts are tax-free savings and investment accounts that allow eligible individuals with a disability to save and invest money without losing eligibility for other public benefit programs like Medicaid, Supplemental Security Income, or Social Security Disability Insurance. STABLE Accounts have been possible in Ohio since 2016, after the Achieving a Better Life Experience (ABLE) Act was passed by the United States Congress in 2014. Ohio was even the first state in the U.S. to implement an ABLE Program.

So…who can open a STABLE Account? You are eligible if you meet the following criteria:

• If you have a disability, physical impairment, or blindness developed before the age of 26 and will last, or has lasted, at least a year
• Be a U.S. citizen or legal resident
• Confirm one of the following:
  • If you are eligible for Supplemental Security Income (SSI) or Social Security Disability Insurance (SSDI) because of a disability
  • Have a condition listed of the Social Security Administration’s “List of Compassionate Allowances Conditions”
  • Experience blindness as determined by the Social Security Act, or
  • Has received, and can provide if asked, a signed diagnosis of the qualifying disability from a licensed physician

Benefits of a STABLE Account include:

• Easy Online Deposits – Contribute up to $19,000 per year, you may be able to contribute up to an additional $15,060 per year if employed
• Ease of Access to Contribute and Withdraw – The online access portal is simple, easy to use, and you can approve friends and family to add money to your account as well
• Diverse Investment Choices – Choose from five different investment options, including four mutual fund-based investments, and one FDIC-insured savings option (Save your money in an account for a rainy day, or invest your money and watch it grow over time!)
• Flexible Change Options – Freedom to change your investment options two times per year

Funds from your STABLE Account can be used to cover any Qualified Disability Expense, these must be related to the disability and help maintain or improve your health, independence, or quality of life. Qualified Disability Expenses can include basic living expenses, assistive technology, health & wellness, housing, administrative services, employment training, financial management, transportation, education, legal fees, or oversight & monitoring.

You can open a STABLE Account easily in about 20 minutes at www.stableaccount.com. You can do it yourself or be helped by a family member or legal guardian. To enroll, you’ll need your Full Name, Address, Date of Birth, Social Security Number, Bank Account Number, and Bank Account Routing Number. In some cases, you may be asked to provide your Driver’s License or proof of Power of Attorney.

Questions about STABLE Accounts? Explore their website or reach out by calling 1-800-439-1653 or emailing [email protected] Monday – Friday 9AM-8PM EST.

Upcoming Events

6/28/25 – Cincinnati Pride
9/6/25 – DSAGC BuddyWalk
9/12/25 – Fall Picnic
10/25 – Trunk or Treat
11/25 – Thanksgiving Luncheon
12/25 – Christmas Party
2/12/26 – Valentine’s Day Party

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