Our History
Our mission to provide quality care for our mentally retarded citizens was begun to meet their diversified needs.
In the seventies legislation established regulations and standards for Intermediate Care Facilities for the mentally retarded. The facilities certified are funded by a combination of Federal and State monies. Currently there are many other choices available through various waiver options, group homes, foster homes, and independent living programs.
The Ohio League for the Mentally Retarded was founder in 1987 to advocate for those unable to speak for themselves. In addition to assisting the retarded in making choices of options available we continue our efforts to retain the larger facilities for those that require the sheltered environment, nursing and professional services offered. Our efforts must continue as many of these larger facilities are closing regardless of the undiminishing (increasing) need.
Today, OLMR has succeeded in advocating to reform the state operated system from large institutions to small, condominium like settings in which people with severe disabilities live and flourish.
During its history, OLMR has expanded its role to provide advocacy services to individuals and families who wish to:
- Secure special education services for children with all types of educational handicapping conditions,
- Secure the future of IDEA, The Individuals With Educational Handicaps Act, originally called The Education for All Handicapped Children's Act,
- Secure services and residential care for loved ones whether that setting be in the family home, in a supported living environment, in a private Intermediate Care Facility For The Mentally Retarded ( ICFMR), or in a state operated Developmental Center,
- Demand the highest accountability from public officials and agencies receiving public funds for services to people with disabilities,
- Support independent advocacy through private donations and fund raising, rather than taking public funds to carry out the agendas of political entities,
- Impact public policy affecting people with disabilities by educating consumers, the general public, the legislators and local community leaders about the long-term needs of this population,