Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities (WCBDD) and Wood County Fair have partnered together to offer an inclusive experience at the 2024 Wood County Fair on Thursday, August 1^st, from 9AM to 1:30PM.

“Let Your Abilities Shine” is an opportunity for individuals served by any county board to experience the Wood County Fair in a way that honors and celebrates developmental disabilities. There are several activities and opportunities available:

1.      WCBDD Recreation Team will be offering fun-filled, inclusive activities in the large tent located at Entrance A1.

2.      Guided animal tours will be offered by Wood County Fair members and WCBDD staff, starting in the large tent at Entrance A1.

3.      Wood County Fair will be offering an exclusive ride time for individuals to ride in a more sensory-friendly environment. 

4.      The Ring of Dreams Livestock Show will begin at 5:30PM.

5.      A Sensory Room has been appropriately designed and created by members of WCBDD and Wood County Fair Board. It will be located in the Jr. Fair Building.

Individuals served, along with support staff, may enter the Wood County Fair for FREE between the hours of 9AM and 1:30PM. Those transporting large groups are asked to park and enter through Entrance A. Smaller groups and vehicles are asked to park and enter through Entrance B. You do not have to show proof of receiving services from your county board to enter.

Throughout the entire week of the fair, Wood County Board of DD will also have its NEW Universal Changing Unit available, providing individuals served and those with mobility limitations a safe, clean, inclusive, and dignified space for personal care. The Universal Changing Unit will be located near the Grandstands.

Brent Baer, Wood County Board of DD Superintendent, is ready to see the hard work come together. “Wood County Board of Developmental Disabilities is proud and excited about its partnership with the Wood County Fair Board. The opportunity to advance inclusion by getting behind the scenes at the fair with a hands-on approach to care for the livestock and the hard work required to make the fair successful simply just feels right. Good people partnering with good people build a stronger community.”

Paul Perry, Wood County Fair Board Member, shares his excitement of the event. “I am very excited for the partnership that the Wood County Fair and WCBDD has formed to ensure that we are being inclusive for all members of the community. The day to let your abilities shine will be shining bright this year at the wood county fair!"  

If you have questions concerning the event, please contact Charese Botjer at 419-352-5115. You may also email cbotjer@woodcountydd.org.