Local Ohio Board of Developmental Disabilities introduces mobile changing unit to promote inclusion at community events

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio — The Jefferson County Board of Developmental Disabilities has invested in a mobile changing unit to provide more inclusion opportunities for the special needs population.

JCBDD acquired the 24-foot trailer from Montondo Trailer LLC of Buffalo, N.Y., this winter and will make it available free of charge for community events, beginning with First Friday on Fourth in Steubenville next month.

Superintendent Michael Zinno said the unit has an accessible restroom and changing amenities for adults, including a toilet and sink, a hand-held shower, and a lift table. Also, it has heat and air conditioning for comfort in various weather conditions.

He added that it fills a void that may keep that demographic from participating in local festivities.

“There are inadequate restroom facilities, and this gives the people we support a place when they need it so they can take part in community events,” Zinno said. “This allows the events to be more inclusive and it supports our mission, vison and values.”

Plans were in the works for a year to purchase the trailer, and Zinno said JCBD may be among the first to have the unit on hand.

“Across the state, there have been a lot of talks about access,” he noted. “I believe we’re one of the first boards to do this and other counties are following suit.”

Zinno said he hoped to utilize the unit throughout the county and not just Steubenville, particularly with the number of fairs, festivals, and other gatherings on the local calendar this summer.

Zinno planned to introduce the unit at First Fridays on Fourth on May 3 and hoped other event organizers would get involved.

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