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Blog Posts
Shan, Paris, Chris, & LaShar: Superhero Storytellers (The CLW Book Club)
The members of the CLW Book Club are not content with simply reading stories. Instead, they are determined to write their own. APSI clients Shan, Paris, Chris, and LaShar are among the club members who recently worked together to write and publish What Made You Laugh?, an imaginative book filled with humor, friendship, and an unexpected superhero adventure. Each member brings a distinct personality and perspective to the group. Shan is outgoing and creative, whether he is
3 min read


Danny & Bobby: A Different Way of Seeing the World
When visitors stepped into Beyond the Canvas: The Power of Unbound Expression in St. Clairsville this spring, they encountered more than an art exhibit. They encountered dozens of unique perspectives, each offering a glimpse into the creativity, experiences, and individuality of artists with disabilities. Among those featured were APSI clients and brothers Danny and Bobby, whose artwork helped demonstrate the power of self-expression. Presented through a partnership between
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Michael: Creating Opportunities Through Creativity
For Michael, art is more than a hobby. It is a way to express himself, connect with others, and share his unique voice with the world. Through his dedication to creating and his passion for learning new techniques, Michael has continued to grow as a person and as an artist while inspiring those around him. This year, Michael reached an exciting milestone when his work was selected for display in the New Artists exhibition at The Hub Art Factory in Canton, Ohio. The exhibitio
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Lisa: Determined to Live Life Her Way
When asked about her greatest accomplishment, APSI client Lisa, doesn’t hesitate. For years, she dreamed of having a place of her own and living as independently as possible. The journey wasn’t always easy, and there were times when it seemed that goal might remain out of reach. But Lisa never stopped advocating for herself, and today she proudly lives in her own apartment with the companion she had always hoped for, her beloved dog, Lilly. “I failed so many times in my li
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Sarah Strengthens Her Voice Through Partners in Policymaking
APSI client Sarah was recently spotlighted by the Carroll County Board of Developmental Disabilities after completing the seven-course Partners in Policymaking training offered through People First of Ohio. Throughout the program, Sarah learned more about lawmakers, legislation, public policy, and the importance of speaking out about issues affecting people with developmental disabilities. The training also provided guidance on engaging with local county boards of development
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Client Story: Danny and Bobby
Author: Patrick Lester Thanks to the Belmont County Board of Developmental Disabilities, APSI clients and sibling artists, Danny and Bobby, recently had the opportunity to share their creativity with the community through Beyond the Canvas: The Power of Unbound Expression, an art exhibit highlighting the work of artists with developmental disabilities. Both brothers, who are nonverbal, used their artwork as a powerful form of communication —expressing thoughts, emotions, and
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Annual Report 2025: Jesse's Story
When Jesse became an APSI client, he was ready to take control of his own life. Living independently in his apartment, Jesse has been steadily building the skills and confidence he needs to live with even less support, a goal he's actively working toward with his APSI PSR, Cassie, and his home manager, Christian.
4 min read


Annual Report 2025: DJ's Story
In 2018, when APSI became DJ's guardian, his life was at a crossroads. His parents could no longer serve that role, and DJ found himself in a home where he was over-medicated and struggling. During family visits, staff would rush them away after just ten minutes, eager to hide the reality of DJ's situation. It took him half an hour to eat a single taco, his movements dulled by medications that masked rather than supported who he truly was.
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Annual Report 2025: Tabby's Story
Tabby has been a client in APSI’s East Central region for over 20 years. According to Jacolyn, her APSI Protective Services Representative (PSR), Tabby's personality can be described as loving, explosive, and caring, qualities that shine through in everything she does. Over the years, Tabby has shown growth in developing coping skills that work best for her: she walks away and takes a few minutes to herself, a skill that has made all the difference in her relationships and da
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Annual Report 2025: Nwanya's Story
was ready for a fresh start. Coming from a home where his health and safety were at risk, APSI advocated for him to move to a new home, a decision that transformed his daily life and opened doors to the community involvement he'd been seeking.
3 min read


Annual Report 2025: Beth's Story
When Beth became an APSI client, she was navigating life with diabetes, a history of trauma, and a fierce desire for independence that sometimes clashed with the reality of what she needed to stay safe. Her journey with APSI has been one of learning to balance her determination to do things herself with accepting support when she needs it most.
3 min read


Celebrating Excellence: APSI's Annual Awards Program
Each year, Advocacy & Protective Services, Inc. (APSI) takes time to honor the remarkable individuals who make a difference in the lives...
4 min read


Bringing the Birds to Life: The Story of APSI’s Mural Project
Where it All Began Last year, the idea was sparked to transform the large exterior wall of APSI’s central office on High Street in...
4 min read


Client Story: AJ
When AJ walked across the stage at her high school graduation in 2025, she felt a mix of pride and uncertainty. Graduation marked not just the end of school, but the beginning of her journey into adulthood, and APSI has been there to support her as she navigates that transition.
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Honoring Kelly Strickland: 2025 Ron Kozlowski Advocacy Award Recipient
We are thrilled to announce that Kelly Strickland, house manager at Our Lady of the Wayside, has been selected as the 2025 Ron Kozlowski Advocacy Award honoree, a recognition that celebrates her remarkable 25-year journey of service, unwavering commitment to individuals with developmental disabilities, and embodiment of the very spirit of advocacy and compassionate care that defines the best in developmental disability services.
5 min read


Michael's Journey to Independence
In December 2005, Michael began his journey forward when APSI became his guardian. He resided in a home with roommates before transitioning to a living facility where he could embrace greater independence with provider services. Throughout this journey, Michael consistently received the unwavering support of his family and the county board. Still, no relationship was more important to him than the one he shared with his grandmother.
2 min read


Client Story: Jason
Jason has many passions, each woven together by his love for history, storytelling, and community. Whether performing on stage, researching
2 min read


Growth, Resilience, and Independence: Jenna's Journey
Jenna's life is a testament to perseverance, personal growth, and the power of community support. She has built a fulfilling life centered a
4 min read


Who are Medical Specialists?
APSI is available to clients 24/7, 365 days year-round thanks to our Medical Specialists. No matter the time of day, there is always a...
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Client Story: Joe
Before becoming an APSI client, Joe’s home life was rocky, and his parents made decisions for him without his input. Ultimately,...
2 min read
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