Boundless Abilities: Autism and More

This is a special episode that was recorded in front of a live audience at Land Grant Brewing as a part of the Columbus Foundation's Big Table events. Celebrity Emcee Alissa Henry, ABC6/FOX 28, guides panelists through hot topics that ensure adults with disabilities have the right to choose if they date, drink alcohol and where they work. Panelists include Angela Bellin (Boundless program leader for Economic Connections), Ana Santos (Boundless residential manager), Julius Ghee (Boundless Direct Support Professional for 20 years), Jen Adkins and Kassandra Trunk (adults served by Boundless). Our staff and individuals share what makes them feel included and respected and also what not to say. 

Discover the path to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) recovery! In this episode, join our host, Scott Light, as we sit down with Morgan Maffett, a licensed social worker at Boundless, and Maggie Kinkopf, who shares her powerful lived experience with PTSD. Dive into the transformative power of Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) therapy as our guests discuss its effectiveness and their journeys to healing. Prepare for insightful stories and a deeper understanding of the innovative approaches to helping people overcome trauma and improve their lives. 

Learn about the power of advocacy! In this episode, we sit down with Anthony Kukura, Manager of Advocacy and Government Affairs at Boundless, Teresa Lampl, CEO of The Ohio Council of Behavioral Health and Family Services Providers, and Marci Straughter, a passionate self-advocate. With our host, Scott Light, we dive into how grassroot efforts and legislative actions are making a significant impact on communities, especially in the realms of mental health, disability services and public policy. Prepare for inspiring stories and a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of dedicated individuals working together for change.

Step into the world of inclusive sports with us! In this episode, we sit down with Will Gibson, an extraordinary athlete and coach with Down syndrome, alongside Beth Gibson, the visionary executive director and founder of Buddy Up for Life and Tracie Reddy, the dedicated residential operations manager for Boundless and Buddy Ball volunteer. With our host, Scott Light, we dive into Will's sports journey, exploring its profound significance and the importance of community engagement. Prepare for heartwarming stories and insights into the power of community and a deeper understanding of the transformative impact of inclusive sports. 

This year as you do your spring cleaning, why not declutter your mind as well. In this episode we have great tips for being more focused and less stressed. Join two professional counselors Dr. Jamie Jones, Boundless, and Danielle Smart, client navigator, Ohio NAMI, who share proven ways to achieve better mental health. They join our host Scott Light to discuss meditation, breathing exercises, journaling and just getting outside to improve your state of mind. What impact do green spaces and blue spaces have on our health? Studies show they are helpful in calming our minds. 

For Developmental Disability Awareness Month Bob Evans Farms partnered with Boundless to help build confidence and connections through cooking recipes with Bob Evans Farms products. Hear how four women we serve through our adult day program Without Walls (WoW) joined four food scientists/chefs from Bob Evans Farms at our SmartHome to cook together. Guests Hope Johnson, supervisor of the WoW program at Boundless, and Cassandra Binkley, senior manager community engagement & philanthropy at Bob Evans Farms, discuss how well the interactions went. Everyone learned something new from each other. Learning life skills is a great way to gain more independence.  

Dating is tough for many people in this day and age and can be even more difficult if you are an adult with disabilities. Our host, Scott Light, is joined by Julie, a mom of an adult son with autism who has experienced dating, and Ana Santos, residential manager at Boundless, who works with many adults who desire to be in romantic relationships. With shows like Love on the Spectrum this topic is being discussed more often. How can family members and guardians support their adults looking for love? What can parents do to set up safe guidelines while still being encouraging about dating? Listen in to get these valuable perspectives. 

When asked, “Who was/is a mentor to you?” We can all probably think of one or more people who have made significant impacts on our lives. Mentors are vital in learning social skills, working through tough situations, and helping you find the right place in your community. Boundless staff members Kelli James and Kiara James join host, Scott Light, to share stories about how mentors have impacted them personally as well as the impressive progress they’ve witnessed in individuals who are receiving mentoring services at Boundless. After all, we are all stronger when we have supportive people in our lives.    

Hear from two mothers who both lost a loved one during the holidays last year and what lessons they learned and are willing to share with others. Karen Cousins, program director, NAMI Franklin County and Dr. Jill Crane, psychology post-doctoral fellow, Boundless, join host Scott Light for some heartfelt suggestions on not caving to expectations and celebrating in a way that works for you. 

We’ve heard many times before that you can’t care for others if you’re not caring for yourself, but it’s easy to overlook your needs and feel guilty for prioritizing yourself. We are facing a burnout epidemic and caregivers are being hit the hardest, but the good news is you’re not alone. People around the country are dealing with these same issues and have found solutions to help them balance themselves and their passion. Hear the stories of three different caretakers, the struggles they face, and what they do to give back to themselves on this episode of Well-Being. Join Jess Waizmann, Community ABA Administrator at Boundless, Lisa Comes, Service and Support Advisor at Ohio Association of County Boards and mother of a son with disabilities, and Julie Callahan, mother of an adult son who Boundless serves, to hear real life examples of self-care.