About
The Ohio Waiver Network (OWN) established in 2013 was started by Tom Rickels and Kathy Phillips, who had both worked in the provider field for over 30 years. They felt that providers were being represented by people who either hadn't delivered direct services in the field or those who were too far removed from having provided service to be active and effective.
As OWN became more involved with Ohio stakeholders, we were able to introduce practical ideas on how policies would affect direct support professionals (DSPs) delivering services and the people they served.
O.W.N. works under 3 basic principles: Cooperation/Collaboration, System Simplicity, and Quality Outcomes. OWN's engagement to their vision and mission solidified and membership grew once regular meetings started taking place with the Director of the Ohio Department of Developmental Disabilities,
At the same time, as larger providers started joining, OWN voice amplified and their ability to effect change was cemented.
Who we are
OWN was created to represent organizations who want to work together to advance waiver services for those with developmental disabilities.
We are an organization with members who are passionate about making positive differences in the lives of people we serve.
We believe the future of the system is rooted in person centered, home and community based services
Teamwork is the ability to work together toward a common vision. The ability to direct individual accomplishments toward organizational objectives. It is the fuel that allows common people to attain uncommon results.
Andrew Carnegie
