Richland Newhope - Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities

09/02/2026

Next Level Leaders Mitch and Marie, along with their coach Kristy, took their meeting on the road this week! They visited Andy, who is recovering from surgery, to check in, hold their meeting, and spend some time catching up.

We love seeing our Next Level Leaders support one another—not just in leadership, but as friends and teammates.

We’re glad to see Andy doing well and wish him continued healing and recovery!

08/27/2026

During the Richland County Fair, Mark and Simeon enjoyed a beautiful, sunny day exploring the fair and taking in all the sights, sounds, and activities it had to offer.

One of the highlights of their day was getting to pet a horse and a cow! They also enjoyed some delicious fair food and took in the fair's fun atmosphere.

It was a great day filled with smiles, new experiences, and wonderful memories. Mark and Simeon had such a fantastic time that they are already looking forward to coming back to the fair next year!

Richland County Fairgrounds

08/20/2026

Richland Newhope is looking for a passionate Developmental Specialist to join our team and make a meaningful difference in the lives of young children and their families!

08/19/2026

Residential Employee Spotlight - Desiree Robinette

How long have you worked for Richland Newhope?
I began my employment at Richland Newhope on May 19, 2019.

What do you like best about your job?
The most rewarding aspect of my job is interacting with the individuals we serve. I value the relationships built through daily interactions, their smiles, and the recognition they show when they call my name. It is fulfilling to see them happy, healthy, and actively engaged in the community.

What led you to work in this field?
While working at Kohl’s, I realized that sales was not the right career path for me and that I was looking for a more long-term and meaningful profession. I also learned that inventory work involved extensive travel and transportation with coworkers. These experiences led me to pursue a career as a nurse aide and begin working in the health care field. I have remained with Richland County Newhope because the individuals we serve have inspired me to grow both personally and professionally. Their influence motivated me to continue my education and pursue my nursing degree, and I am grateful for the opportunity to give back through the care and support I provide each day.

What was your first paying job?
I began my career in the Philippines as a secondary school teacher. While there I met my husband during his visit and later relocated to the United States with him.

Statement from Des’s supervisor, Tara Rogers:
“Des is friendly, flexible, upbeat, and always willing to jump right in to help. She has transitioned to nursing very well using her knowledge of the individuals to help her in her nursing responsibilities. Her experience has helped bring different perspectives to the nursing department. If there is something she isn't sure about, she asks questions and wants to learn all she can, which is a great quality!”

08/11/2026

We’re excited to be part of the 2026 Richland County Fair and even more excited to help make the fair a welcoming, inclusive, and accessible experience for everyone.

We’re happy to share that an adult-sized changing table is available in the Red Barn, as well as our accessible trailer, located between the Richland County Sheriff's Office, Ohio Building, and the Grandstand, which includes an adult-sized changing table and a Hoyer lift. These resources help ensure that everyone can enjoy their time at the fair with greater comfort, dignity, and independence.

While you’re at the fair, be sure to stop by our agency’s booth in Fairhaven Hall! Come say hello, learn more about what we do, and connect with our team.

Changing Spaces Ohio Richland County Fairgrounds

08/05/2026

We’re Hiring!
Scan the QR code or visit our website at www.rnewhope.org/jobs
to apply today.

08/04/2026

We’re hiring! Are you looking for a meaningful career where you can make a difference in your community? Join the Richland Newhope team as a Medicaid Services Specialist—a full-time position with great benefits, competitive pay, and the opportunity to support individuals with developmental disabilities.

Apply today and learn more here: https://www.rnewhope.org/jobs

07/27/2026

We are incredibly proud to share the accomplishments of one of our staff members' daughters, Karina!

11-year-old, Karina chose Disability Awareness as her 4-H project, a topic that promotes understanding, inclusion, and respect for people with disabilities. While the project itself was meaningful, it also challenged Karina in a very personal way. Public speaking was something that terrified her, as it does many.

Karina earned 3rd Place for her Illustrated Talk and received all A's on her Disability Awareness project. Even more impressive than the awards was her courage to step outside her comfort zone and educate others about disability awareness.

Congratulations, Karina! Thank you for helping spread awareness and acceptance. Your hard work and determination are truly inspiring.

07/20/2026

We're thankful to collaborate with the Crawford County Board of Developmental Disabilities to provide our Accessible Trailer at the Crawford County Fair Ohio this week.

The trailer features an adult-sized changing table and a Hoyer lift, helping make the fair more inclusive and accessible for everyone attending.

Everyone deserves the opportunity to fully participate in community events, and we're proud to support accessibility and inclusion at the Crawford County Fair!

07/14/2026

We are proud to recognize our Human Resources/Fiscal Director, Alicia Bailey, for her dedicated service to our country.

Alicia served in the United States Navy from 1999 to 2006, deploying in support of Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. Her commitment, courage, and sacrifice exemplify the values of service and leadership.

Recently, Alicia was presented with the Quilt of Valor, a meaningful tribute awarded to veterans and service members who have been touched by war. This beautiful handmade quilt serves as a symbol of gratitude and appreciation for her military service and sacrifices.

We are honored to have Alicia as part of our team. Her dedication to serving others continues every day through her leadership and commitment to our organization.

Please join us in congratulating Alicia on this well-deserved recognition and thanking her for her service to our nation.

Thank you for your service, Alicia!

We also extend our appreciation to Richland Source for sharing Alicia's story and helping recognize her remarkable service.

The Quilt of Valor is a civilian award presented to veterans touched by war as a symbol of gratitude for their service and sacrifice.