• 1.6.23 One Needs Assessment Cohort 3
• 1.12.23 MTSS for Gap Closing Network-Selection/Implementation of Instruction, Intervention and Supports: Session 4
• 1.12.23 The Road to UDL Credentialing and District Action Planning for Leaders: Session 5
• 1.17.23 Inclusive Instructional Leadership Network
• 1.20.23 One Needs Assessment Cohort 3
• 1.26.23 Early Learning Leadership Network

Bill and Karen Blumhorst - Founders, Capabilities, LLC

Named in honor of Margaret Burley, former executive director of the Ohio Coalition for the Education of Children with Disabilities for 39 years, the Margaret Burley Family Impact Award recognizes a professional or parent who has made a significant impact on the lives of families of those with disabilities. As a parent herself of a son with disabilities, Margaret advocated for her son's right and ability to learn, grow and be a contributing member of their community. Under her guidance and the guidance of others, the Ohio Coalition went from one part-time director to an agency with more than 25 staff members and a $2.5 million budget.

The nominees of the Family Impact Award have served as mentors, coaches, advocates, and/or connectors for families and have demonstrated ongoing and continuous passion, dedication, and support for families.

Bill and Karen founded Capabilities, a nonprofit organization that supports individuals with disabilities in finding employment, 25 years ago. Karen Blumhorst explains that Capabilities started with her as a job developer and job coach for young adults. Since then, the organization has grown into Ohio’s largest private provider of career rehabilitation services serving thousands from ten offices around the state and powered by a passionate and committed staff of over 160 employees.

Together, they work to support people with disabilities on their personal journey toward independence, with a special focus on transition services, community employment, and community inclusion. Capabilities in St. Marys is a Bureau of Motor Vehicles exam station that provides tests to their students, as well as is open to the public by appointment.

Their commitment to people with disabilities and their families is best summarized in the Capabilities’ vision statement: “Capabilities provide opportunities. Opportunities for the people we serve to achieve and sustain their goals through self-advocacy, training, and professional services. Opportunities for their families and support systems to engage in an inclusive process.”

Congratulations again to Bill and Blumhorst, the 2022 Margaret Burley Family Impact Recipient!

Secondary Transition

Universal Design for Learning

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