MARION, OH (MARION COUNTY NOW)—The Marion County Board of Developmental Disabilities (MCBDD) is gearing up for a summer filled with inclusive and engaging community events, including a new adaptive baseball team and a community-wide “Summer Bash.”

Nikki Workman, Director of Communications at MCBDD, highlighted several initiatives aimed at fostering community integration and providing opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Summer Bash to Bring Fun and Color

MCBDD will host a “Summer Bash” on Thursday, Aug. 2, from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the MCBDD grounds, located west of their building and behind the Head Start building. The event will feature approximately 20 vendors, each offering games and activities. Highlights include water-based fun like bubbles and squirt guns, a color wall where participants can receive bursts of color as they walk a quarter-mile accessible path, and inflatables.

“We are inviting the community to come and be a part of the Summer Bash,” Workman said. “It’s a really fun way to get out and enjoy the summer with us.”

Community partners and vendors interested in participating can reach out to Workman at info@marioncountydd.org or by calling 740-387-1035.

Unstoppables Baseball Team Debuts in Marion

New to Marion this year is the “Unstoppables” baseball team, an organization that provides youth sports opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. The team plays games every Tuesday night at 5:30 p.m. at the MCBDD’s grassy area, lasting approximately one hour.

“It’s so much fun and it’s so neat to see the different organizations interact with the kids with developmental disabilities,” Workman explained. The team was made possible through sponsorships from Whirlpool, Alluvial, Peacock Water, and Pillar Credit Union. The games are open to the public and are fully accessible, with bleachers and a wheelchair path available.

MaxAiir to Host Monthly Sensory Jump Nights

In partnership with MaxAiir, MCBDD is introducing monthly “Sensory Just Right Jump Nights.” These events will take place on the third Tuesday of each month after the Unstoppables game. MaxAiir will adjust the environment by turning down lights, keeping music off, and limiting the number of people on bouncy houses to create a more sensory-friendly experience. Chaperones will be on hand to provide support.

Open Hearts Livestock Show Returns for Fifth Year

The fifth annual Open Hearts Livestock Show is scheduled for Thursday, July 4, at 5 p.m. at Evers Arena. This event, which originated with River Valley FFA student Kayla Stockdale, allows individuals with developmental disabilities to showcase animals such as rabbits, goats, and pigs. Nine participants are currently scheduled to show.

Donation and Volunteer Opportunities

The MCBDD welcomes community support through donations and volunteering. The Knights of Columbus will be collecting donations for Special Olympics at Walmart on Friday, June 6, and Saturday, June 7, and again on Friday, June 13, and Saturday, June 14, from approximately 8 a.m. to 5 p.m. Additionally, donations can be made to the MCBDD endowment fund through the Community Foundation website.

For those interested in volunteering, Workman highlighted several opportunities:

Gala (March 6, 2026): A large event requiring numerous volunteers to assist approximately 200 guests with developmental disabilities.

Unstoppables Baseball: Volunteers are needed to help run bases and provide support during games.

Unified Golf: Golfers can partner with individuals with developmental disabilities.

“Any ideas you have to volunteer, please reach out,” Workman encouraged. “We love to have volunteers, and we’ll make sure it’ll work.”

More information on all events and how to get involved can be found on the Marion County Board of DD’s social media channels and website, or by calling Nikki Workman directly at the previously provided number.