Butler County Board of Developmental Disabilities

At BCBDD, we believe people with developmental disabilities should have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives and communities!

Self-advocacy means speaking up, sharing your ideas, making choices, and helping create positive change. Whether it's at work, in school, or in the community, every voice matters!

What is one way you advocate for yourself or others?! Share your answer in the comments!

We're proud to share a new heartwarming story featuring BCBDD Community Outreach Advocate Courtney Hineman and her friendship with Miami University student Melanie Schael through the Best Buddies Ohio Miami University Chapter!

Published by The Miami Student and written by Zoee Robinson, the article highlights the power of meaningful connections, the importance of inclusion, and Courtney's leadership as an advocate in the Butler County community. From lifelong friendships to professional opportunities, Courtney's story is a reminder that everyone benefits when communities create spaces where people belong!

Read the full story here: https://www.miamistudent.net/article/2026/04/a-perfectly-normal-unusual-friendship?ct=content_open&cv=cbox_featured

BCBDD Community Outreach Advocate Courtney Hineman recently met with Stephen Smith and Emily Cox at Pyramid Hill Sculpture Park & Museum to discuss ways to improve accessibility throughout the park.

We're excited about the accessibility projects already underway and look forward to seeing future improvements that help ensure everyone can enjoy all that Pyramid Hill has to offer!

A special thank you to Courtney for her continued advocacy and dedication to creating a more inclusive community for people with developmental disabilities!