Getting started
Looking for support for yourself or someone in your life? Reach out, and we’ll talk it through with you.
The first step
Start with a conversation
You don’t need to have everything figured out before you contact us.
Many people start with a few questions. Tell us a little about what you’re looking for, and our team will talk through your questions with you.
In Ohio
How support usually starts
If you’re new to developmental disability services, these are the usual first steps.
Connect with your county board
Your county board of developmental disabilities is the place to start. It determines eligibility and can assign a Service and Support Administrator (SSA) to help plan services.
Find your county boardPlan and explore providers
Your SSA helps you build a plan. You can look up providers through the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities and talk with any you’re interested in.
Ohio’s guide for familiesTalk with us
You’re welcome to reach out at any point, even before you know what you need. We’ll answer what we can and point you in the right direction.
Get in touch
New to terms like SSA and ISP? See Ohio terms, explained.
A checklist
Questions to ask any provider
Choosing a provider is a big decision. These questions are worth asking everyone you talk with, including us.
- How do you get to know a person before support begins?
- How are staff matched with the people they support?
- What training do your DSPs complete?
- How do you support people to take part in the community?
- How do you communicate with families and guardians?
- What happens if someone’s needs or preferences change?
- Who do I call with a question or concern?
- Which areas do you serve, and do you have availability right now?
Before you write to us
What to include in a first message
Keep your first message short. There’s no need to share personal details yet.
Start a conversation with Avenues
Have a question about support, or interested in working with our team? We’d love to hear from you.