FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
Each and every one of you has played a role in that story. Your support, your belief in our mission, and the trust you place in us make this work possible.
In 2025, we shared that big changes were on the horizon. In 2026, we took the next step and officially introduced our campus renovation project.
This transformation represents more than construction. It is an investment in the future of our community and in the people we serve every day. It reflects our commitment to creating a space where individuals can learn, connect, and build independence in new and meaningful ways.
While we look ahead, our focus remains rooted in the work happening today. Across Advocacy, Assistance Dogs, Independent Living, Home Accessibility, and Navigators, our team continues to meet people where they are and provide the support they need to move forward.
This report highlights just a portion of that impact.
We are deeply grateful for the partners, supporters, and community members who continue to stand with us. Your involvement helps turn vision into action and ensures that our community continues to move forward together.
Thank you for being part of this work.
Ash D. Lemons
Executive Director
EXPANDING ACCESS
The Ability Center serves individuals and families across 13 counties in Northwest Ohio, with programs and services reaching far beyond our main campus.
Through the launch of 50 North and our growing hub expansion strategy, we are increasing access to support, resources, and community connections throughout the region. From advocacy and home accessibility to durable medical equipment and assistance dogs, our work is designed to meet people where they are.
Our impact can also be seen in schools across Northwest Ohio through our School Facility Dog program, with dogs supporting students, educators, and school communities every day. Whether in a local school or someone’s home, The Ability Center continues to create more opportunities for people with disabilities and their families to thrive close to home.
3,082
Total Individuals with an Independent Living Goal
4,261
Total Information and Referral Calls
157
Households Served by the Home Accessibility Program
4,755
Assistive Tech and Durable Medical Equipment Distributed
103
Advocacy Initiatives Completed
139
Active Working Assistance Dogs
31K+
Students Potentially Impacted with School Facility Dogs
5,848
People Attended 250 Independent Living Events
WE’RE BUILDING WHAT COMES NEXT
In 2025, we took on one of the most important projects in our history.
The renovation of The Ability Center is more than a building project. It is a commitment to the future of our community.
Behind the scenes, our team worked alongside board members, community leaders, neighbors, and partners like Miller Diversified and Stough and Stough Architects to thoughtfully plan what comes next.
Every detail was considered with one goal in mind: creating a space that reflects the dignity, independence, and possibility we believe every person deserves.
This is where we’re going. And we’re building it together.
The transformed campus will feature a new event center, teaching kitchen, art workshop, accessible meeting spaces, outdoor walking paths and more!
A year of impact.
ADVOCACY
A year of action.
In 2025, The Ability Center’s Advocacy team worked across local, state, and federal levels to push for meaningful change. From organizing community events to meeting with legislators, this work focused on one goal: building a more accessible and equitable future.
Throughout the year, advocates led conversations on transportation, employment, housing, and public access. Bringing together community members, partners, and policymakers to move ideas into action.
ASSISTANCE DOGS
More than dogs.
The Ability Center’s Assistance Dog Program transforms lives through partnerships built on trust, independence, and possibility. More than companions, these dogs empower individuals with disabilities to navigate daily life with greater confidence, safety, and freedom. Every match represents a life changed, not only for the individual receiving the dog, but also for families, workplaces, and communities who witness the power of inclusion in action.
INDEPENDENT LIVING
Growing independence, in every stage of life.
The Ability Center’s Independent Living Department supports people with disabilities in building confidence, strengthening life skills, and increasing independence at every stage of life. Through personalized support, advocacy, and community connections, individuals and families gain access to resources and opportunities that help them thrive. From youth programs to career development, the department empowers people to pursue their goals, make informed choices, and fully participate in their communities.
HOME ACCESSIBILITY
Creating safer, more accessible homes.
Independence often starts at home. Through home modifications and equipment, our Home Accessibility program helps individuals move safely, confidently, and comfortably in their everyday lives.
Out in the community.
It's important to recognize the meaningful impact The Ability Center has on our community. We are truly fortunate to have such an outstanding organization locally.
Ken Wines, Sylvania Area Chamber of CommercePartner
As a volunteer in the Youth and Family Services program, this project will greatly expand opportunities for families to gain knowledge, experience positive connections and be instilled with hope for the future. It is exciting to know that through this tremendous endeavor, the Ability Center is truly invested in our greater community!
Jo Lynn Denlinger-KorenVolunteer
