Meeting families where they are
“I Am Boundless is about helping people live without limits,” explains Jennifer Riha, chief strategy officer on the Perrysburg campus of the local non-profit. “We serve individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, autism and behavioral health needs across the entire state of Ohio—from early childhood through adulthood.”
Originally founded in Franklin County to support adults with disabilities, Boundless has grown from serving just 100 people to now providing assistance to more than 7,000 statewide. In 2017, the nonprofit rebranded as I Am Boundless to reflect its broader mission and expanding services.
Perrysburg campus: A local resource
The Perrysburg location offers center-based programs, tailored to students who need more support than traditional schools can provide. “Our programs help children with autism succeed, academically and socially, while still keeping them connected to their home school districts,” explains Riha.
The organization also provides outpatient behavioral health, family counseling and therapy services. “What makes us unique,” Riha adds, “is that our professionals are specifically trained to support people with autism and other developmental disabilities, including when they also experience mental health issues, like anxiety.”
Innovative care at home
One of the most popular offerings is Boundless at Home, an in-home caregiving program where families can choose who provides care—whether that’s a neighbor, a relative or a trusted friend.
“We take care of all the training and the caregiver is placed on our payroll,” said Riha. “Families love that they can have someone they know and trust involved in their
child’s daily care, while also receiving the professional support they need.”
This approach not only empowers families but also helps address the ongoing workforce
shortage of direct care providers.
Building partnerships in the community
Outreach Manager Maggie Quinn helps connect Boundless with local schools, families and organizations. “We want the community to know that we’re here to partner with them,” Quinn said, adding, “Our role is not to compete with existing resources but [rather] to fill the gaps—whether that’s with counseling, school support or innovative caregiving solutions.”
Looking ahead As the organization continues to grow, the goal remains clear: to make sure every individual and family has the resources they need to thrive. “We’re always looking for the next gap to fill,” Riha said. “Our mission is to make life better for people with disabilities, and to do that hand-in-hand with schools, families and the broader community.”
Contact Maggie Quinn, Outreach Manager at [email protected]. 614-844-3800 ext. 2243 or I Am Boundless. Starbright Professional Center, 28555 Starbright Blvd, Perrysburg. 567-312-4722. iamboundless.org.
Perrysburg alumni honor former coach with a statue
The Toledo Alliance for the Performing Arts (TAPA) recently rebranded as Live Arts Toledo. The organization brings together Toledo Symphony, Toledo Ballet, Toledo Jazz Orchestra, Toledo Symphony School of Music and Toledo Symphony Youth Orchestras.
Zepf Center has launched Our Haven, a Youth Crisis Stabilization Unit in
Karen Bacon (inset), an educator with 15 years of classroom experience, was recently named Best K-12 Teacher in the 2025 Tech Edvocate Awards by the Ohio Virtual Academy (OHVA). Bacon is a transition liaison at OHVA. She works with special education students and helps them to plan for their futures. She also created the school’s Cardinal Café—a virtual coffee shop which offers students experience in workforce training.
On Sept. 6, a photo taken of a Perrysburg teen was shared for all to see in New York City’s Times Square. Selected from over 2,600 entries, James-Thomas Kish, 13, was one of the over 500 photographs chosen for the annual National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) Times Square Video Presentation. The photo of James-Thomas in a superhero costume, was taken by his older brother, Andrew Kish, 21, as part of an art photography project at Bowling Green State University.
Step into the TMA Store, where imagination meets artistry! Located inside the Toledo Museum of Art, this vibrant gift shop is a treasure trove for families seeking meaningful, joy-sparking gifts. From hand-crocheted toys that invite storytelling to ASL (American Sign Language) alphabet blocks that celebrate inclusive learning, every item is chosen to inspire young minds through play. Galaxy-themed sidewalk chalk transforms driveways into cosmic canvases, while Daruma Doll gift sets encourage goal-setting and resilience—perfect for the new year ahead. Whether you’re shopping in person or online, the TMA Store offers a dynamic mix of creativity, culture and connection. This holiday season, give gifts that grow with your child—and support a community rooted in artistic exploration. Visit toledomuseum.org/shop to explore the full collection.
Celebrate the magic of live performance with Live Arts Toledo! This local arts organization offers a wide variety of concerts, theater and family-friendly shows throughout the year. From music and dance to special seasonal performances, there’s something to inspire and entertain everyone in the family. Gift tickets or subscriptions to Live Arts Toledo for a memorable holiday present that brings joy, culture, and shared experiences into your home.
We’ll Frame It, an owner operated business, has been helping families preserve their memories for 30 years. They do custom framing, specifically projects such as concert photos and posters, diplomas, awards, medals, jerseys, family photos, original artwork, vacation artwork, shadowboxes and photo frames. Whether it’s a meaningful gift or a keepsake for your own home, their experienced team and attention to detail make every piece shine — and they even offer rush orders for those last-minute holiday surprises.
Looking for a hands-on holiday gift that encourages play and creativity? The Sandbox for Kids in Toledo offers an indoor play experience designed for children of all abilities. With interactive play zones, sensory-friendly features and engaging activities, it’s the perfect place for kids to explore, learn and have fun. Gift a membership to this play area as a thoughtful gift for kids who love to explore.
Bring the magic of the wild to your holiday shopping at the Toledo Zoo & Aquarium! Beyond fascinating animal exhibits, the zoo’s gift shop is full of unique, educational gifts that spark curiosity and inspire a love of nature. From plush animals and wildlife-themed gifts, there’s something for every age. Memberships also make memorable gifts that the whole family can enjoy together.
