Cuyahoga DD Employees Volunteer Together in Annual Days of Service Event

Cuyahoga DD Employees Unite for Community Service

In a remarkable display of teamwork and commitment to community welfare, the Cuyahoga County Board of Developmental Disabilities (Cuyahoga DD) launched its fourth annual Days of Service event, a project that not only emphasizes the importance of volunteerism but also fosters deeper connections between staff and the people they support. The initiative is an extension of an innovative idea contest held by Cuyahoga DD in 2021, designed to inspire staff to creatively volunteer in the community alongside those with developmental disabilities.

This year's event is monumental, taking place over several days and involving 304 dedicated employees together with 68 individuals who benefit from Cuyahoga DD services. Altogether, volunteers will lend their efforts at 17 diverse community organizations across Cuyahoga County, demonstrating the Board’s strong commitment to bettering the local landscape through collective action.

The Volunteering Experience

The excitement is palpable among staff members and individuals served as they don their safety vests and Cuyahoga DD hoodies, ready to make a tangible impact. Participating organizations include the City Mission, Cleveland Botanical Gardens, and the Greater Cleveland Food Bank, among others. Each site presents unique opportunities for hands-on engagement, whether it be supporting local gardens, fostering community connections, or assisting formidable missions aimed at uplifting those in need.

Dr. Amber C. Gibbs, the Superintendent and CEO of Cuyahoga DD, expressed her enthusiasm about this year’s initiative: “When we reviewed entries from the Innovative Idea contest, we were especially excited by the opportunity for staff and the people we serve to volunteer together throughout the community.” Her words reflect the key aim of the Days of Service - to weave closer ties between professionals and individuals they support, reinforcing their roles as active participants in societal development.

Celebrating Togetherness

The Days of Service also emphasizes inclusivity, as everyone ages and abilities come together in service of a common purpose. Whether it be creating a welcoming environment at the Cleveland Pregnancy Center or participating in outdoor activities at the Cleveland Metroparks, the collective efforts strengthen community bonds, enhance personal growth, and reinforce the ethos of mutual support.

Given the diverse range of projects on the agenda, volunteers have the opportunity to select where they want to contribute their time, thus ensuring a personal connection with the work they undertake. This model not only encourages creativity in problem-solving and outreach but also empowers individuals with developmental disabilities by showcasing their capabilities in a community-focused context.

Conclusion

The Cuyahoga DD’s Days of Service is more than just an event; it’s a bridge that connects various aspects of the community while highlighting the invaluable contributions of the people involved—staff and individuals served alike. The organization aims to not only support those with developmental disabilities but promote pioneering collaborative efforts within Cuyahoga County. As they embark on this journey together, the lasting relationships and positive changes initiated during the Days of Service will leave a marking legacy for years to come.

To learn more about Cuyahoga DD and their commitment to serving people with developmental disabilities, visit www.CuyahogaDD.org.