In this episode of Ohio DD Talks, host Shari Cooper takes us inside one of the most energizing events of the year for Ohio's developmental disability advocates, the annual DD Awareness and Advocacy Day at the Capitol. Shari, who served as emcee for her 12th consecutive year, sits down with three guests who help make the day happen: Shannon Strow, Manager of Government Affairs for LMK Advocacy; Hunter Robinson, a lead advocate at the Ross County Board of DD; and Krystal Albright, advocate and community volunteer from Paulding County.

Together, they reflect on how the event has evolved over more than a decade, growing from two separate days into one powerful gathering of 500 advocates. They also share what this year's theme, "Power of Support," means to them personally. From meeting with state legislators to hearing Governor DeWine speak live for the first time, this episode captures why showing up at the Statehouse matters and what it feels like to be in a room full of people fighting for the same things.

Host: Shari Cooper

Guests: Shannon Strow, Hunter Robinson, Krystal Albright

Key Topics

The History of DD Awareness and Advocacy Day: Shannon shares how the event began over 10 years ago as two separate events and how LMK Advocacy has helped shape and grow it over the last five years.

This Year's Theme: Power of Support: Hunter and Krystal reflect on what "Power of Support" means in their own lives, from job coaching and HPC support to transportation services and the networks of people who make their goals possible.

Taking It to the Legislators: Hunter shares his experience meeting with State Representative Mark Johnson to discuss sidewalk and bus stop accessibility in his community and what it feels like to advocate face to face for real, local change.

Governor DeWine at the Capitol: For many attendees, this was the first time seeing the Governor in person. Guests reflect on his message around DSP pay, universal changing stations, and making Ohio more accessible statewide.

Storytelling on the Main Stage: Shannon highlights the event's storytelling segment, where advocates Hunter, Christina, and Hope shared personal stories of support, as the most meaningful moment of the day. For Hunter, it was a dream years in the making.

An Invitation to First-Time Advocates: Shannon and Hunter encourage anyone thinking about attending to take the leap. The event includes a walkthrough of the legislative meeting process and is designed to help new advocates build confidence.

Why It Matters

This episode is a reminder that advocacy is not just something that happens in policy rooms. It happens when real people show up and share their stories. DD Awareness and Advocacy Day gives self-advocates, families, and providers a direct line to the lawmakers who shape the systems they rely on every day. Whether it is fighting for better DSP pay, more accessible sidewalks, or bringing the Special Olympics closer to home, this event shows what it looks like when the developmental disability community shows up together. If you have ever thought about adding your voice, this episode will convince you that now is the time.

Resources and Links

• Ohio DD Council Website
• LMK Advocacy
• Learn about DD Awareness and Advocacy Day