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Non-profits receive donations from Noon Medina Kiwanis as part of essay contest

Fri, 15 Mar 2024 16:01:38 GMT

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Sixth grader Kate Ihring (middle) and Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty of Medina Creative Housing (left) pose with a check as part of the annual Macy Hallock Essay Contest on Thursday.

By Sara Crawford, The Gazette

CLICK HERE to read Kate Ihring's Essay about Medina Creative Housing.

MEDINA — Several nonprofit organizations were awarded $150 donations through the Medina Noon Kiwanis as part of the annual Macy Hallock Essay Contest on Thursday.

Each year, the Medina Noon Kiwanis asks sixth-grade students from Medina Schools to submit essays about a local nonprofit, the impact it has on them and why it would deserve a monetary donation.

The contest was first introduced in 2017 in honor of late Noon Kiwanis member Macy Hallock and was extended to all of the middle schools.

At the start of the contest, A.I. Root Middle School was the only participating school, but Claggett Middle School joined the contest in 2023.

Contest organizer Barb Woodward said more than 200 essays were submitted from both middle schools and they were narrowed down to the final five.

The judging process takes a couple of steps, Woodward said, which starts with a set of judges reading small stacks of essays and choosing their top four or five choices. A second panel of judges then takes the chosen essays, narrowing them down to the final five.

“Each year, I hear comments from the judges that it’s too hard to select the top four or five,” Woodward said.

This year’s winners include Kate Ihrig of Claggett Middle School in support of Medina Creative Housing; Gavin Kerr of A.I. Root Middle School in support of Spark Medina; Gauge Garrett of A.I. Root in support of Cups Cafe; Emily Cassidy of A.I. Root in support of Mary Grace Memorial Foundation; and Aliah Yappel of A.I. Root in support of Feeding Medina County.

During the program, each of the students read their essay to the audience and then presented a $150 check from the Medina Noon Kiwanis to a representative from their chosen nonprofit.

In his speech, Gavin Kerr focused on the importance of kindness in a community and the work that Spark Medina does with that effort in mind.

Spark Medina was created a couple of years ago, focusing on creating service-learning opportunities for kids to begin making changes in their communities at a young age, Katy Medley of Spark Medina said.

Gavin said he has volunteered with Spark Medina previously and finds that the organization is a leader in spreading kindness.

“They will empower us to make the leap, to dive into kindness,” Gavin said. “We must take action, let’s start it with a spark of kindness.”

Contact reporter Sara Crawford at (330) 721-4063 or scrawford@medina-gazette.com .

https://medina-gazette.com/news/384586/non-profits-receive-donations-from-noon-medina-kiwanis-as-part-of-essay-contest/?fbclid=IwAR0XwRWRuidcs_B5Iz3eStvrKz6QFOSbL5Avf56JOvKJcRcNA655Li9SNSU

Z’s Cream and Bean owners donate business to Medina Creative Housing

Fri, 29 Sep 2023 15:11:38 GMT

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By Chris Studor

Z’s Cream and Bean owners donate business to Medina Creative Housing | Scriptype

View the full October 2023 Hinckley Record | Scriptype

With a snip of the scissors, Hinckley’s Z’s Cream and Bean has officially become the newest business to be operated by Medina Creative Housing.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony was held the afternoon of Aug. 16 with both future employees and a list of local dignitaries expressing their overwhelming appreciation to Larry and Mary Ann Zirker, founders of Z’s, who turned over the business to the nonprofit group in March. The new name of the popular ice cream store, located on the corner of West 130 ^th and Boston, is Z’s Cream and Bean, Creatively Made & Operated.

“The Zirkers did not do this for publicity but we want the community to know of their great act of kindness and benevolence,” said Dian DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of MCH. “The Zirkers studied what MCH is all about for three years and then made the decision to give the business to our nonprofit. The plaque we are giving them is hardly enough to thank them. The ribbon cutting represents a re-opening of a favorite local ice cream shop.”

Hagerty also held up baseball caps embroidered with little gummy bears acknowledging the practice of Larry Zirker who enjoyed passing out little cups of gummy bears to all the children visiting the store. Larry, Mary Ann and their daughter, Loralie DePiero, owned and operated Z’s, known for its high-quality, hand-churned ice cream with a constantly changing menu of delicious and creative flavors, for the past 13 years.

MCH opened its doors 31 years ago and now operates 18 different programs countywide, Hagerty said. Among these programs are innovative housing and a variety of services and supports for individuals with disabilities. Those served by MCH housing enjoy living independently, holding meaningful jobs while earning incomes, having access to recreational and therapeutic programs and being truly integrated into the community. MCH provides jobs for the disabled, operating Medina Creative Pet Play, Grande Café Roaster, Creative Living Coffee and now Z’s Bean and Cream Creatively Made & Operated.

Ed Stevens, vice president of Medina MCH, was among speakers. Stevens has a disabled son and said MCH “Provides everything I want as a parent of a disabled child.”

“My son works in a nursing home and works in a rehabilitation center and I feel he could work here as well,” he said. “It can be very difficult for the disabled to find employment. In these settings, MCH provides coaches, and mentors. Having a disabled person working side-by-side with typical peers makes disabled people feel accepted and a part of the community and does a great deal for their self esteem. I am so thankful to the Zirkers for their heartfelt gift.”

Local officials were on hand to offer a warm welcome. Hinckley Trustee Jack Swedyk said he “couldn’t think a better organization to take the reins.”

“It is wonderful to receive such a tremendous gift,” said Trustee Monique Ascherl. “In Hinckley we take care of our own and I think this is a great fit.”

Adding to the list of dignitaries was Medina County Commissioner Colleen Swedyk and Ohio Rep. Sharon Ray.

Several disabled young adults taking part in the ribbon-cutting ceremony have their eye on a future job at the new Z’s Cream & Bean Creatively Made and Operated. Among them is Dylan Goodman, who currently works at the Grande Café and Roastery.

“I’d love to work here if I get the chance and enjoyed being a part of the ribbon cutting,” Goodman said.

Kelly Foote, who also works at the Grande Café, added; she likes “the idea of serving ice cream and will probably work here someday.”

Following the ribbon-cutting, Hagerty invited guests inside for hot dogs and, of course, ice cream.

“We are on a new journey and this gift provides the disabled a new life and opportunity,” she said.

Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty addresses the crowed on behalf of Medina Creative Housing during the Aug. 23 grand reopening of Z’s Cream & Bean. Employees with disabilities are now working alongside traditional workers to serve up the same hand-churned ice cream customers have come to love. Photo by C. Studor.

The crowd looks forward to the grand re-opening of Z’s Bean and Cream, now operated under Medina Creative Housing which provides employment opportunities for the disabled. After the ribbon cutting guests were invited inside to enjoy hot dogs and ice cream. Photo by C. Studor.

On our cover (photo): The grand re-opening of Z’s Cream & Bean, now Z’s Bean and Creamery Creatively Owned and Operated, was celebrated Aug. 23 with a ribbon-cutting ceremony. Pictured are (left to right) Kelly Foote, Ashely Figsh, Aaron Walters, Ed Stevens, JP Vandendriese and Dyland Goodman. Photo by C. Studor.

Z’s Cream and Bean owners donate business to Medina Creative Housing | Scriptype

View the full October 2023 Hinckley Record | Scriptype

Ground broken for Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters

Wed, 27 Sep 2023 12:44:55 GMT

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A groundbreaking Sept. 13 of Medina Creative Housing’s Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters development in Pepper Pike.

G round broken for Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters | Real Estate | clevelandjewishnews.com

COURTNEY BYRNES
cbyrnes@cjn.org

As the Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters broke ground Sept. 13, it was emotional for Shari Goldberg, who helped over the last several years to bring the development to Pepper Pike for her son, Noah, and others with disabilities.

Medina Creative Housing is duplicating its Creative Living for Life community model to bring 25 “forever homes” for individuals with disabilities to a plot of 3 acres sold to them by the Ursuline Sisters at 29777 Fairmount Blvd. Over 200 people attended the groundbreaking.

“Breaking ground is just joyous and not lost on me that it’s at the beginning of a new year,” Goldberg told the Cleveland Jewish News as the groundbreaking took place two days before Rosh Hashanah, the Jewish new year. “This is such an important time and a sweet time in our year, but this is when it’s happening – right before the new year – was just remarkable.”

After 11 years in the making, construction on the homes began Sept. 1, with a ribbon cutting and occupancy expected in September 2024, Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, told the CJN.

“It’s been a long and winding road, and to go from a concept, a dream, to having that formalized into a partnership with the Ursuline Sisters and going through all of the zoning, through the planning, through the city requirements, to finally be approved to build this very special, intentional community where we’ll have forever homes for individuals with disabilities full of hope and promise for the residents and peace of mind for their families,” DePasquale-Hagerty said. “And I think that the 11 years has signified the unwavering commitment of all the partners involved to support and uplift the lives of those in need.”

As its first development on the east side of Cleveland, she said the project came about when MCH was developing a project in Middleburg Heights and a motivated group of east side families reached out wanting a development in their own community.

Part of this group was the Goldbergs, who moved to Pepper Pike 26 years ago “not knowing what we needed” and finding a wonderful school district and community that they hoped to stay in, Goldberg said. Goldberg, her husband, Michael, and their sons, Noah and Jackson, are congregants of Congregation Shaarey Tikvah in Beachwood and Jewish Family Experience in University Heights.

Goldberg said she has been thinking about Noah’s future since he was a teen and came across MCH’s Creative Living for Life community model and felt it was a good fit. She met with its grant writer, Jen Wintner, and DePasquale-Hagerty, and later Mayor Richard Bain of Pepper Pike who suggested the Ursuline Sisters property. Goldberg became a full-time volunteer collecting names and serving as a liaison between MCH and the new project.

Throughout the process, the project received a mix of support and some concerns raised by residents, but ultimately Goldberg and DePasquale-Hagerty look forward to a bright future.

“I’m really hoping people who originally felt that way are going to feel differently once we move in to see that we’re going to be great neighbors, and we’re going to do what we can to fit in and support each other,” Goldberg said.

Shari Goldberg speaks at the groundbreaking. Her son, Noah, will be among the first residents.

Many of the residents, she said, are not new neighbors, but have lived or grew up in Pepper Pike, and almost half of them identify as Jewish.

“Not only (is it) neurodiverse, multi-generational, but it also makes it very ecumenical and a wide variety of religious affiliation,” she said.

The homes are privately funded by families, with fundraising for a community center.

“We’re excited to become active members of the Pepper Pike community in the near future and welcome the community to get to know us and our organization, and obviously all of the future residents to get to know us better,” DePasquale-Hagerty said. “And again, we look forward to developing additional relationships in the community and we look forward to the bright future.”

Ground broken for Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters | Real Estate | clevelandjewishnews.com

Medina Creative House breaks ground on townhome project

Sat, 16 Sep 2023 18:28:43 GMT

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Bob Sandrick - The Gazette

PEPPER PIKE — About 200 people attended a groundbreaking ceremony Wednesday evening for 25 new Medina Creative Housing town houses on the Ursuline Sisters of Cleveland campus.

Attendees included Pepper Pike Mayor Richard Bain, veteran journalist Geraldo Rivera and future residents of the town houses.

“I can’t wait to live on my own and be with all my friends,” Jared Stearns, a future town house resident, told the crowd.

Medina Creative Housing, which provides housing, vocational training, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible, is partnering with the Ursuline Sisters on the town houses. It’s been an 11-year process.

“I see all of our families here, with their children, and it is very emotional for me,” said Diane DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing.

DePasquale-Hagerty said Medina Creative Housing clients are scheduled to move into the new town houses in September 2024. The 3-acre site is next to Ursuline College.

“We have a chance to make a real connection between the college and the special needs community,” said Ed Stevens, vice president of the Medina Creative Housing board of trustees. “That is really touching to me.”

Jared Stearns’ mother, Trudy Stearns, said she was happy that her son will have a safe, supportive place to live.

“The opportunity for growth, friendship and so much more are all possible in this community,” Trudy Stearns said.

Families of the residents will pay for the single-floor town houses, some with one bedroom, others with two. However, the sisters have agreed to pay for two of the homes.

Also, Medina Creative Housing is raising money for a community center for the residents.

The Ursuline Sisters consider the project part of their mission, which according to their website is “transforming society through contemplation, justice and compassion.”

“Parents of potential residents have told us how important this project is to them, so they can have the peace of mind that comes with knowing their loved ones will have a permanent place to live when their families are no longer able to care for them,” the Ursuline Sisters website says.

“And there simply is not enough housing available for this population,” the website says. “We believe strongly that providing housing for individuals with disabilities is a social justice issue — that they, like everyone else, deserve an opportunity to live in a safe neighborhood, where they can live as independently as possible.”

Members of the Ursuline Sisters have experience working with special needs people and have expressed a desire to help residents living on their campus, the website says.

“The sisters will not make any money on this project,” the website says.

Contact Bob Sandrick at areanews@medina-gazette.com .

Ground broken on Ursuline property for developmentally disabled housing

Thu, 14 Sep 2023 15:38:02 GMT

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The future residents of Pepper Pike's Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters housing development did the honors Wednesday of ceremoniously breaking ground for their homes. In all, 24 homes will be built on Ursuline Sisters property for adults who have intellectual and developmental disabilities. (Jeff Piorkowski, special to cleveland.com)

By Jeff Piorkowski/special to cleveland.com

PEPPER PIKE, Ohio -- Wednesday (Sept. 13) was a joyous day for several local adults who have intellectual or developmental disabilities, their parents, the nonprofit organization Medina Creative Housing and the City of Pepper Pike.

That’s because ground was ceremoniously broken for the 24-home development Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters.

A crowd of about 100 people were in attendance under a large tent to hear Medina Creatine Housing CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, Ursuline Sisters President Sister Ritamary Welsh, Ursuline College President Sister Christine De Vinne, Mayor Richard Bain and others speak about the asset the homes will be to those who need such residences.

“We’ve been working on this a long time -- 11 years,” DePasquale-Hagerty said of the Pepper Pike project, which will be built over the next year on 3.5 acres off Fairmount Boulevard, just south of Ursuline College and north of the Merici Crossings building.

Merici Crossings opened in 2019 as home to Ursuline nuns.

“There will be 24 homes, and each one is being designed to accommodate the person who is going to live there,” DePasquale-Hagerty said.

The 24 residents have already been selected, and DePasquale-Hagerty said 10 of them are currently Pepper Pike residents who will be able to remain in the city, near family. All but one now live in a community near Pepper Pike.

Pepper Pike’s Nicole Twells is the parent of Charlotte Twells, 24, who will take up residence at the new development when it is expected to open in September 2024.

Charlotte Twells is looking forward to living independently in her new home.

In addition to providing a first independent home for its residents, the homes represent great comfort to the residents’ parents who, as they age, have been concerned about their children’s welfare after they are gone.

“It’s a great comfort to all the families,” Nicole Twells said of the new homes. “When (Charlotte) was 12 or 13, we were starting to worry about” her eventual future.

Nicole Twells said she contacted DePasquale-Hagerty a few years ago, but was told that Medina Creative Housing’s other such development for adults in Medina was already filled.

She was elated to hear that the organization was seeking to build a similar development in Pepper Pike, and waited as progress was slowly made to bring it about.

“This is the answer to our prayers,” she said. “I can finally go to sleep and have a good night’s sleep.”

Medina Creative Housing will also soon break ground on another such development in Middleburg Heights.

Nearly all of the future residents of the Ursuline homes were present at the ceremony. One of them, Jared Stearns, followed this mother, Trudy Stearns, to the microphone as she addressed the gathering.

After Trudy Stearns expressed her thanks for the development coming about, Jared told the audience that he could hardly wait to live on his own and do things such as watch a movie whenever he wished.

The homes are to be built in a circular formation on property that was formerly home to the old Ursuline mothers house, which had stood since 1958 as the home for Ursuline nuns.

The ceremony was at times emotional for DePasquale-Hagerty, as she received hugs, flowers and thanks from the future residents and their parents.

To make the development a reality, Medina Creative Housing partnered with the Ursuline Sisters, who saw the project as a way to further their mission of helping others.

Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, right, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, has formed bonds with the future residents of the Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters development, including Charlotte Twells. (Jeff Piorkowski, special to cleveland.com)

“What an exciting evening for all of us,” Sister Welsh told the audience, and in particular the future residents and their parents.

”On behalf of the Ursuline Sisters, we welcome you and want you to know that you have now all become a very important part of the Ursuline family, and always will be.

“There were times we thought this project might never happen,” she said. “Yet with God’s help, Dianne’s determination, and the persistence of so many of you, here on this beautiful evening we are gathered for our groundbreaking.

“This is a dream come true, so let the celebration begin.”

Among those in attendance was TV personality Geraldo Rivera, who after the ceremony said he heard about the event from a Shaker Heights neighbor and came to lend his support.

Rivera has for many years been a supporter of Life’s WORC , which provides support and services for those who have intellectual and development disabilities in Queens, Manhattan, Nassau and Suffolk Counties in New York.

He said he plans to stay in touch with Creative Living for Life at Ursuline Sisters.

DePasquale-Hagerty introduced Bain, with appreciation for him keeping the lines of communication open with her organization and for the city’s support.

Bain generated a large round of applause when he said, “First of all, welcome to the new residents of Pepper Pike.”

He continued by stating: “We’re thrilled to have you join us in our community. Pepper Pike has for decades had welcome and opening arms for those with special needs and challenges and their families. Our school system has for decades supported those needs.

“And to have this facility come to fruition in the next year is just a thrill and another step along the way for not only you, our new residents, but for the city itself.”

Unique gift will provide a sweet workplace for disabled adults

Fri, 25 Aug 2023 14:46:22 GMT

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Cutting the ribbon for the official reopening of Z's Cream & Bean are, from left, Kelly Foote, Ashley Figish, Aaron Walters, Ed Stevens, JP Vandendriesse and Dylan Goodman. (Sam Boyer, special to cleveland.com)

By Sam Boyer, special to cleveland.com

HINCKLEY TOWNSHIP, Ohio -- Astonishing.

That was the reaction of many of those attending the grand reopening of the beloved 13-year-old Z’s Cream & Bean ice cream shop Wednesday (Aug. 23).
It certainly was not the usual ribbon cutting.

Z’s founders Larry and Mary Ann Zirker began thinking about retirement three years ago. But instead of choosing to close the popular ice cream parlor they founded in 2010, the Zirkers began researching how to do something really unexpected for a nonprofit in Medina County.

The result was the donation of their business to Medina Creative Housing, providing another opportunity for people with disabilities to experience meaningful work and inclusion.

Medina Creative Housing CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty shows one of the gummy bear hats that will be presented to Larry and Mary Ann Zirker. (Sam Boyer, special to cleveland.com)

While the Zirkers were unable to attend the celebration due to health concerns, they were very much on the minds of those in attendance.

Host of the event Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, said the Zirkers spent a lot of time finding the right organization for their gift.

Medina Creative Housing’s commitment to provide housing opportunities including independent and congregate living, as well as 18 programs to create a meaningful lifestyle for children, youth and adults with disabilities, was determined to be the right recipient.

Z’s now joins the other community work opportunities that include Grande Café & Roastery, Creative Produce, Creative Pet Play, Creative Living Coffee, Creative Therapy Ranch and Creative Property Maintenance.

“The Zirkers made it clear from the very beginning they weren’t looking for public recognition,” DePasquale-Hagerty said. “What an incredible blessing.”

That sentiment was echoed by guest speakers including Ed Stevens, vice president of the board of Medina Creative Housing; Sharon Ray, representing the 66th Ohio House district; Hinckley Township Trustees Jack Swedyk, chairman, and Monique Ascherl, vice chairman; and Medina County Commissioner Colleen Swedyk.

In presenting a certificate from the county commissioners as a tribute to the generosity of the Zirkers, Swedyk noted that she has attended many events, but this was even more exciting in her own hometown.

Ray, also a former Wadsworth council member and county commissioner, said: “What a wonderful gift to the community. It’s such a wonderful Medina County thing to do.”

Pam Voss, manager at Z's Cream & Bean, helps serve the people who came for the ice cream parlor's grand reopening. (Sam Boyer, special to cleveland.com)

Anyone who came to Z’s with their children knew that Larry would always hand out gummy bears to the youngsters. DePasquale-Hagerty pulled out two caps -- one for Larry, one for Mary Ann -- imprinted with gummy bears, just to show appreciation.

DePasquale-Hagerty explained that the transfer took place in March. Since then, staff and clients have been learning from Z’s staff, with the help of the Zirkers’ daughter, all about how to follow the family focus on using fresh, local ingredients such as fruit, honey, maple syrup and dairy, never treated with hormones, and offering homemade, hand-churned and hand-packaged ice cream.

She said her clients are very excited to learn and work in the shop, which has added something to the name.

“It is now Z’s Cream & Bean, Creatively Made & Operated. This beloved institution is infused with new life and purpose,” she said.

“Life is sweeter with Z’s ice cream.”

The ribbon cutting drew an enthusiastic round of applause and the crowd was invited inside to enjoy hot dogs and ice cream.

Owners of Hinckley ice cream shop cede operations to nonprofit for adults with disabilities

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 16:20:59 GMT

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By Steven Hernandez

Published: Aug. 23, 2023

To View Cleveland 19 News Video Report, CLICK HERE .

HINCKLEY, Ohio (WOIO) - Z’s Cream & Bean hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony Wednesday to mark its shift in operations to Medina Creative Housing.

“What we’re celebrating today is a first for me and is a first for our organization,” said CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty.

The ice cream shop was originally run by Larry and Mary Ann Zirker for over a decade.

When it came time to search for a successor, they found Creative Housing.

Medina Creative Housing provides a wide palette of services to those with disabilities, including housing and work opportunities.

After years of research, the Zirkers passed their business operations to the nonprofit.

“They thought that we were worthy, and to receive that gift was a precious moment,” said MCH vice president Ed Stevens.

Among those present at the ceremony were those who participated in Creative Housings’ services, such as Dylan Goodman and Kelly Foote, who work at a coffee shop as part of the program.

“I’m so excited to be here, I’m going to cry happy tears,” said Foote.

“It’s an honor, it’s heartwarming. I’m very happy to be a part of this community,” Goodman added.

While members of Creative Housing are excited at the possibility of working at the ice cream shop in the future, the new owners remain eternally grateful at the Zirkers’ act of kindness.

“I have a chill running up my spine because of this moment,” Stevens said.

Medina Creative Housing hosts grand re-opening of Z's in Hinckley

Wed, 23 Aug 2023 16:09:57 GMT

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Bob Sandrick
The Gazette

Aug 23, 2023

HINCKLEY TWP. — Larry and Mary Ann Zirker, founders of Z’s Cream & Bean homemade ice cream parlor on Boston Road, watched and studied Medina Creative Housing closely for more than three years.

During that time, the Zirkers grew to admire the nonprofit, which provides housing, vocational training, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible.

The Zirkers were so impressed that when it came time to leave the business they had launched 13 years ago, they decided to donate Z’s to Medina Creative Housing. They wanted nothing in return.

“What an incredible blessing. What an incredible act of benevolence for our organization,” said Diane DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing.

DePasquale-Hagerty was speaking Wednesday during a grand reopening and ribbon-cutting ceremony at Z’s, which has been renamed Z’s Cream & Bean Creatively Made & Operated. The business is at 2706 Boston Road, near the corner of West 130th Street.

Also speaking at the ceremony were Ed Stevens, vice president of the Medina Creative Housing Board of Trustees; Ohio Rep. Sharon Ray, R-66; Jack Swedyk and Monique Ascherl, chair and vice chair, respectively, of the Hinckley Township Broad of Trustees; and Medina County Commissioner Colleen Swedyk.

Stevens said it’s difficult for special-needs people to find employment and job training. Medina Creative Housing has done so over the years through outreaches like Medina Creative Produce, Medina Creative Property Maintenance and the Grand Café & Roastery.

“We can’t do it without the support of our community and the support of people who can make a difference, like the Zirkers,” Stevens said.

Ascherl said she couldn’t think of a better business to establish a presence in Hinckley than Medina Creative Housing.

“I really think that this is a great fit,” Ascherl said.

The Zirkers did not attend the ribbon cutting/grand opening due to their age and health issues.

“They have made it known from the very beginning of our relationship that they were not looking for publicity,” DePasquale-Hagerty said. “This was an act of kindness.”

According to the Z’s Cream & Bean website, the ice cream parlor has been making fresh, homemade, hand-churned ice cream with locally harvested ingredients since it opened in 2010.

“We are committed to maintain the high standards that the Zirkers have established and customers expect,” DePasquale-Hagerty told the Medina Gazette prior to Wednesday’s ceremony.

Now, Z’s will also provide jobs for those with disabilities.

“As a vocational training and employment site for individuals with disabilities, our store provides the next steppingstone for individuals with disabilities into community employment with supports, job coaching and individual goal-setting,” the Z’s website says.

Medina Creative Housing actually took over the Z’s operation in March.

“We have been under the tutelage of the (Zirker) family for the past five months, learning the intricacies of ice cream making,” DePasquale-Hagerty said.

Contact Bob Sandrick at areanews@medina-gazette.com .

A little rain doesn't stall Medina Creative Housing poker run

Mon, 31 Jul 2023 19:29:27 GMT

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Bob Sandrick - The Gazette

MEDINA — Mike Boger of Brunswick and Bill Ferrer of Medina were riding their motorcycles Saturday through Wellington in Lorain County when the first round of rain hit. It slowed them down but didn’t stop them.

“I was more worried about my bike than I was myself,” Boger said. “I’ve got too much money in it.”

When the second round of rain started, Boger and Ferrer were in Hinckley, and had stopped at Z’s Cream & Bean, a homemade ice cream shop on Boston Road. They waited out the showers there.

“We were just stuck there eating ice cream,” Ferrer joked.

Boger and Ferrer were participating in the seventh annual Ride for Independence Poker Run, a fundraiser for Medina Creative Housing.

The poker run was followed by the 12th annual Independence Walk, another Medina Creative Housing fundraiser. The poker run and independence walk have been paired together for several years.

The rain added irony to Saturday’s events, which were originally scheduled for July 15 but were postponed due to anticipated rain. Saturday was the rain date.

“It’s only fitting that we would have challenges through the day,” Diane DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, told event participants Saturday. “That’s what we work with. That’s what we do.”

Medina Creative Housing, established 30 years ago, provides housing, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible.

The poker run launched at 9 a.m. Bikers paid $25 to participate. The money goes to the Resident Enrichment Program, which offers education, social activities and recreation for Medina Creative Housing residents.

Funds for the enrichment program were also provided by walk-poker run sponsors and through raffles at the event.

Bikers rode to Ken Ganley Nissan on Montville Road in Medina; Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman; Strike Out Lanes in Wellington; Z’s Cream & Bean in Hinckley; Herman’s Pub & Grub in Brunswick; Medina Creative Housing’s new Creative Wellness Center in Weymouth; and Medina Eagles Aerie on Lafayette Road.

At each stop, bikers drew a poker card. The one with the best hand won a prize.

At 3 p.m., bikers assembled at the Medina Creative Housing site on North Huntington Street and enjoyed grilled burgers, pizza and games with MCH clients and families. Patrick the DJ – Patrick Olah, a Creative Housing resident – played tunes.

About an hour later, Medina Creative Housing supporters walked about a half mile from North Huntington to the Grand Café, where they indulged in a little ice cream. Then they strolled back to North Huntington for cake and cookies.

Katie Malkus, a Medina Creative Housing service provider who works directly with MCH clients, took part in the independence walk. She also volunteered at the second poker run stop at Strike Out Lanes in Wellington.

“It started raining after the second stop,” Malkus said. “We were praying for the bikers.”

Malkus, a math tutor, started working at Medina Creative Housing about a year or two ago. She had been looking for a second job.

“This organization does such amazing things for their clients,” Malkus said. “And the clients are so sweet and loving and childlike and (nonjudgmental) and funny.”

Adam Cerny, a client who was the very first tenant in the Medina Creative Housing apartment complex on North Huntington, attended Saturday’s event with his parents, Debbie and Mark Cerny of Lafayette Township.

Adam was 23 when he moved from his parents’ home. Medina Creative Housing taught him all he needed to know.

“We were scared to let him go on his own,” Mark Cerny said. “Now, he can do everything for himself.”

Contact Bob Sandrick at areanews@medina-gazette.com .

Hundreds Gather for Medina Creative Housing Annual Gala

Mon, 17 Apr 2023 18:01:11 GMT

Bob Sandrick - The Gazette

MEDINA — More than 300 people attended the 17th annual Raising the Roof Gala, an annual fundraising banquet for Medina Creative Housing, on Saturday evening.

The event was at MCH’s new Creative Living Wellness Center, the former Weymouth Community Center on Remsen Road, just east of Weymouth Road. The night’s theme was Ohana, which in Hawaiian means “family.”

“We are fully blessed that the community has come out to support us,” Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, executive director of Medina Creative Housing, which provides housing, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible.

One of those supporters Saturday was Ron Knight, whose nephew Anthony was born with a disability. Knight — who helped start the Miracle League of Northeast Ohio, a baseball league for those with special needs — said he became aware of MCH as Anthony grew up and needed a home of his own.

“With Medina Creative Housing, he’s guaranteed a place to live, and that’s important as his family gets older,” Knight, a Medina resident, said. “You want to make sure they can live and be happy. And that’s what they’ve done here.”

The wellness center opened April 3 after a gutting and renovation of the dilapidated former community center. The historic building also housed Weymouth School from 1925 to 1926 and the Achievement Center, a school for children with disabilities, from 1960 to 1992. “The building’s ceiling was caving in,” DePasquale-Haggerty said. “The only thing that’s not new in here are the cement walls.”

Each room in the wellness center offers a different service or activity for MCH clients. For example, a music room contains a piano, keyboard, drums and guitars. There are also rooms for art, information technology, gaming and learning life skills.

The building also holds two gyms, which is where the banquet took place Saturday. The gala included Hawaiian dancing by Pacific Paradise Entertaining in Cleveland, Creative Comedy Crew, an MCH comedy troupe, along with raffles and silent and live auctions.

Jenna Bruckman of Medina said she has attended the Raising the Roof Gala for the past four or five years. She met DePasquale-Haggerty at Heartland Community Church on Weymouth. “I’ve always had a passion for helping people,” Bruckman said. “This organization has grown so much. They do so much to help people.”

Mike Teffer of Parma was at the gala with his wife Donna as guests of RPM International Inc., one of the event’s sponsors. “They help people live on their own and live as normal a life as possible,” Teffer said of MCH. “That’s a great cause.”

Ann Reusch, a member of the MCH Board of Trustees, attended the gala with her husband Gene. They live in Granger Township. “Medina Creative Housing gives a voice to people who don’t have one,” Reusch said. “That resonates with me.”

Contact Bob Sandrick at area-news@medina-gazette.com .

A New Space for Medina Creative Housing

Sat, 01 Apr 2023 17:51:51 GMT

Article by Emily Shea

Photography by Medina Creative Housing

Originally published in Medina County Lifestyle

Medina Creative Housing is a local nonprofit organization that has worked for 31 to assist individuals with developmental, intellectual and physical disabilities to achieve independence, recognizing that everyone they serve requires different levels of training, support and security and responding to meet these needs. To meet this goal, their mission is to develop quality housing, supports and services to enable individuals with disabilities to live their lives with dignity and opportunity.

To continue to advance the growth and development for all those Medina Creative Housing has the privilege to serve, the organization recently renovated the former Weymouth Community Center — a structure that served as the Weymouth School from 1925 to 1956 and a school for children with disabilities, later known as the Achievement Center, from 1960 to 1992. This special needs school is especially historic because it originally opened in 1953, seven years before Medina County citizens passed a levy for it to operate as the first county supported school for students with disabilities, and 14 years before Ohio legislators issued the mandate that counties must educate children with disabilities.

As the leader in opening opportunities for individuals to live, work and recreate in the community, this project was a true labor of love for Medina Creative Housing. The renovation was an undertaking that represents historic preservation of the first schoolhouse for individuals with disabilities in the state of Ohio, as well as maintaining the covenant that this property would always serve individuals with disabilities and continue to be a community asset. “For over 30 years the building increasingly deteriorated. Despite COVID, increased costs and decreased funding, our vision was realized,” stated Medina Creative Housing CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty.

The newly renovated building, now called “Creative Living Lifestyles Health & Wellness Center,” enables Medina Creative Housing to offer a continuum of day array services and health and wellness programming. Some of the community programs that will take place at the Creative Living Lifestyles Health & Wellness Center are the Day Program with a host of enriching activities including life skills training, music, art, nutrition programming, yoga classes, exercise and education programs. It will also serve as a community asset in partnership with Weymouth Preservation Society, Heartbeats Jump Rope Team, Jacobs Ladder and Ohio State Extension.

Additionally, the Creative Living Lifestyles Health & Wellness Center will host Medina Creative Housing's 17th Annual Raising the Roof Dinner & Entertainment Charity Fundraiser, also known as the Ohana Gala, on April 15. The fundraising event will feature an authentic Hawaiian performance by Pacific Paradise Entertainment, Hawaiian cuisine and live and silent auctions. Buy tickets to attend the event and learn more about what the evening will have in store at MedinaCreativeHousing.com/ohana-gala .

In addition to the services and programs provided at the Creative Living Lifestyles Health & Wellness Center, Medina Creative Housing provides 80 housing units for individuals with disabilities to live independently in the community with supports. This includes a unique privatized housing option, Creative Living for Life, offering families the opportunity for permanent housing where they can self-direct and define their loved one's future and customize their home from accessibility features to the paint on the walls, to the type of cabinets.

There are 18 additional services and programs that Medina Creative Housing and Affiliates also currently operate from direct care supports, transportation, home delivered meals, Life Skills Training Summer Day Camp, Resident Enrichment Program, Therapeutic Horseback Riding, Special Olympics, Equine Psychotherapy, Day Programs, Post-Secondary College Program in Partnership with Tri-C and Therapeutic & Exercise Programs. These programs directly support and enrich the lives of individuals with disabilities.

There are six additional community assets that are open to the public and provide vocational training and supportive employment for individuals with disabilities, helping them learn a wide variety of marketable skills while earning an income. The community assets include Creative Pet Play, Creative Therapy Ranch, Creative Living Coffee, Creative Living Produce, Grande Café & Roastery and Z’s Cream & Bean. By supporting these community assets, you directly support Medina Creative Housing and the individuals they serve. Medina Creative Housing is not just creating a “home,” it is creating a “lifestyle” for individuals with disabilities to become fully integrated into their community and become all they can be, leading full and happy lives.

For more information about Medina Creative Housing and to learn more about the Creative Living Lifestyles Health & Wellness Center, visit MedinaCreativeHousing.com . Also, visit MedinaCreativeHousing.com/support-us to learn more about how you can support the nonprofit's mission through donations and volunteering.

BEAT Spotlight: Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, Medina Creative Housing

Tue, 15 Nov 2022 17:30:12 GMT

Saige Cicic
Beat Reporter

Nov 09, 2022

Editor's Note: To read more about Medina County Creative Housing (MCH), see our Medina County Creative Housing Archive Page with Angela and Russ Huston. Click Here

Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO (Chief Executive Officer) of Medina Creative Housing and Affiliates (MCH), a non-profit organization, works to help families who have children with disabilities. Over the past 20 years, Dianne has developed a host of new opportunities for individuals with disabilities such as the Grande Café & Roastery where they roast and package their own coffee beans, Medina Creative Therapy Ranch which offers therapeutic horseback riding for individuals with disabilities, and Medina Creative Pet Play where they have individuals who care for and love on the community’s dogs and cats.

“It hardly feels like work with all the fun our employees are having,” said Dianne. Medina Creative Housing has developed 80 housing units and 18 different programs. “I am proud to say that we now serve over 800 children, youth and adults with disabilities,” Dianne said.

There are many challenges a non-profit organization like MCH goes through, having limited resources, fundraising challenges in a difficult economic environment, facing staffing shortages, and having to tell families that their child must sit on a waiting list for housing or services. Although the challenges may be hard, Dianne says, she gets great satisfaction from her work. “It is my privilege every day to be a part of each individual’s life that we serve and to watch the growth and development that takes place,” she stated.

Although with all of the long hours and heavy workload that Dianne does, she said there is nothing she would do to change her career path. “If you delight in what you are doing, your work becomes more than a job, it becomes a passion,” she said.

Saige Cicic, Brunswick Middle School, is one of over fifty student “backpack journalists” (grades 6-12) in the award-winning BEAT Video Program. The program is sponsored by KDK Mitsubishi, Discount Drug Mart, Plum Creek Assisted Living Community, Baskets Galore, Scripps Howard Foundation, and the Brunswick Rotary Club. Go to https://www.bcsoh.org/domain/1154 to learn more about the Program, or visit https://thebeat.viebit.com to view videos produced by the students.

Hundreds Attend Medina Creative Housing Fundraising Banquet

Tue, 30 Aug 2022 15:36:41 GMT

Bob Sandrick
The Gazette

Aug 30, 2022

MEDINA — Tom Borror has known and appreciated people with disabilities since he was a child.

One of Borror’s oldest friends was only 4 when his father broke his neck after diving from a boat into shallow water. He became a paraplegic but still lived a full and meaningful life.

For the past 20 years, Borror, now 68, has volunteered for several organizations — including Medina Creative Housing — that help those with physical and mental disabilities.

“I appreciate all they can do within their limitations,” said Borror, a Medina resident.

Borror and his wife, Sharon, were among hundreds of people attending the 16th Raising the Roof Gala, an annual fundraising banquet for Medina Creative Housing. The gala was Saturday evening at Weymouth Country Club on Weymouth Road.

The event also marked the 30th anniversary of Medina Creative Housing, established to provide housing, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible.

“We have touched thousands of lives,” said Megan Hillard, Medina Creative Housing spokesperson. “We have 80 units of housing and 18 different programs we have developed that provide not only a roof over one’s head but also a lifestyle for individuals with disabilities to grow and become all they can be.”

“Those we serve enjoy living independently and holding meaningful jobs while earning incomes and enjoying access to recreational and therapeutic programs and true integration into our community,” Hillard said.

The gala was expected to raise about $125,000. General admission tickets were $125, and a VIP reception immediately before the banquet honored those who contributed $1,500 or more. The event also featured raffles. Money raised will go toward Medina Creative Housing operations, programs and housing.

Ryan and Amanda Carlson of Brunswick were among the first to arrive to the gala. Ryan Carlson said his family has been involved with Medina Creative Housing for 15 years.

“Both Amanda and I have family members, and have known others with family members, with disabilities, who have experienced challenges with independent living,” Ryan Carlson said.

“Medina Creative Housing is a great organization that provides customized support and independent housing for folks who might not otherwise have that opportunity,” Ryan Carlson said.

Amanda Carlson is a speech and language pathologist who works with both children and adults.

“I love that this organization allows those with disabilities to have as much independence as possible,” Amanda Carlson said.

Tony Nicol, a former board member of Media Creative Housing, attended Saturday’s fundraiser with his wife, Katie, who now serves on the board.

“The more I learned about this organization, the more I loved what it stands for, helping not just with housing but with education and employment,” Tony Nicol said.

“Our goal is to provide our residents the happiest, most fulfilling life they can have,” Katie Nicol said. “Medina Creative Housing goes above and beyond to do just that.”

Contact Bob Sandrick at areanews@medina-gazette.com .

Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague Visits Grande Cafe and Roastery in Medina

Sat, 06 Aug 2022 15:38:32 GMT

Sara Crawford
The Gazette

Aug 06, 2022

MEDINA — Grande Cafe and Roastery staff members welcomed Ohio Treasurer Robert Sprague on Friday morning as he came to learn more about the cafe’s mission, Medina Creative Housing as a whole and to share more about STABLE accounts.

Grande Cafe and Roastery is a work program through Medina Creative Housing for people with disabilities to focus on their abilities and work to instill work ethic, build skills and produce success.

Before sitting down to talk with a small group of people, Sprague was given a tour of the space by Grande Cafe employee Kelly Foote and Medina Creative Housing CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty.

Foote showed Sprague around the front of the cafe, telling him about the drinks they offer and showing him where they make the food options.

The tour then headed to the back to see where the rest of the food is made and the roastery, where a staff member showed him how they make their individual pods of coffee.

“It’s just an incredible way to build skills for individuals with disabilities,” Sprague said.

With more than 80 units of individual residences for people with disabilities, Medina Creative Housing provides multiple job opportunities like Grande Cafe and Roastery and the gardens where they grow produce to be used in the cafe or sold at the farmers market in the square.

Heading back to the seating area, Sprague met with Foote and a few others who work at Grande Cafe and Roastery to talk more about what a STABLE account is.

A STABLE account is available to people with disabilities to allow them to save and invest money without losing eligibility for certain benefits programs.

Similar to a normal bank account, a STABLE account is considered an investment account that puts someone’s money into options they choose.

“It allows people to have independence throughout the state of Ohio,” Sprague said.

Sprague said when he took office in 2019, there were approximately 8,000 people who signed up for the STABLE account program. Now, there are almost 30,000 people signed up throughout the United States.

DePasquale-Hagerty said that in January, Medina Creative Housing held a Zoom presentation to talk with family members about STABLE accounts and felt that many people signed up as a result of that program.

Of the people present during Friday’s meeting, half of them have their own STABLE account, which they use for many reasons ranging from saving for the future, paying living expenses and more.

After hearing each person talk, Sprague emphasized that the account allows individuals to do what they want to do with their money and have their freedom.

“When you're doing the technical piece (and) the administration, it's dollars and cents but, it's actually helping real people living day-to-day,” DePasquale-Hagerty said.

Contact reporter Sara Crawford at (330) 721-4063 or scrawford@medina-gazette.com .

Rain Can't Wash out Medina Creative Housing Fundraiser

Sat, 25 Jul 2020 15:28:35 GMT

MEDINA — A little rain wasn’t enough to stop the Independence Walk and Poker Run, an annual fundraiser for Medina Creative Housing, on Saturday.

The rain merely made conditions more challenging for participants in the walk and bikers during the poker run.

“That’s what we do here — we overcome challenges,” Diane DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, announced to the crowd immediately before the walk stepped off at about 3:30 p.m.

Medina Creative Housing, established 30 years ago, provides housing, services and support for those with disabilities so they can live as independently as possible.

The Independence Walk was started by two physically disabled women who lived in a Medina Creative Housing residence.

“The event is important because it celebrates and honors the people who fought for our independence and recognizes individuals who are struggling each day for their independence,” DePasquale-Hagerty said.

The last walk-poker run was in 2019. It had been postponed since then due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

“It was really special to bring it back,” DePasquale said. “Our residents have asked for it.”

The poker run launched at 9 a.m. Bikers paid $25 to participate, and for a couple the fee was $45. The money goes to the Resident Enrichment Program, which offers education, social activities and recreation for Medina Creative Housing residents.

Funds for the enrichment program were also provided by walk-poker run sponsors and through raffles at the event.

Bikers rode to Ohio Western Reserve National Cemetery in Rittman; the now-closed Apple Creek Development Center for handicapped people in East Union Township; and Geno’s Bar & Grill, Medina Eagles Aerie 2224 and Stinger Harley-Davidson in Medina.

At each stop, bikers drew a poker card. The one with the best hand won a prize. At 3 p.m., bikers assembled at the Medina Creative Housing site on North Huntington Street and enjoyed grilled burgers, pizza and games while Patrick the DJ – Patrick Olah, a Creative Housing resident – played tunes.

“The rain wasn’t too bad,” said biker Bryan Hajek of Medina. “It sprinkled a little on the next-to-last run. It slowed us down a little but then we suited up and kept going.”

Hajek said he supports as many worthy causes as he can.

“This is an excellent cause,” Hajek said of Medina Creative Housing. “They do a lot of good work here.”

Tim and Judy Doyle and their son Jack Doyle, 24, of Medina all took part in the poker run. Tim rode his motorcycle while Judy and Jack drove a Mazda MX-5 Miata convertible.

“Jack was Facebooking live the whole time,” Judy Doyle said.

Jack, who was born with a genetic disorder called CFC syndrome, doesn’t live in a Medina Creative Housing home but supports the organization. He works at the Grand Café and Roastery, a Medina Creative Housing paid work program for those with disabilities, off Pearl Road south of Fenn Road.

“He will stay with us but it’s nice to know that options are available,” Judy Doyle said.

Because of the weather, DePasquale-Hagerty wasn’t sure whether the Independence Walk would proceed. Then the skies cleared. The walk started about a half-hour behind schedule.

Medina Creative Housing supporters walked about a half mile from North Huntington to the Grand Café, where they indulged in a little ice cream. Then they strolled back to North Huntington.

Tom Espenschied of Hinkley rode in the poker run and participated in the walk later. He said he and his family support a handful of charitable programs and events.

“This one just spoke to me,” Espenschied said.

Contact Bob Sandrick at areanews@medina-gazette.com .

Covid-19 Update

Sat, 14 Mar 2020 13:37:28 GMT

The changes taking place in our community and across the world in response to coronavirus are happening rapidly and can be overwhelming. At Medina Creative Housing and its Affiliates, we are fortunate to be part of a caring, generous, and resilient community. The health and safety of our population, staff, neighbors and community is always our top priority.

Despite the spread of COVID-19 we are committed to continuing to fulfill our mission and serve individuals with disabilities. Given the COVID 19 outbreak I wanted to provide you with an update on the important steps we are taking at this time. We continue diligently monitoring all CDC and health guidelines and follow all sanitizing guidelines and social distancing.

Out of an abundance of caution, we are making a few immediate changes to protect the health and safety of those we serve, our employees and the community. We recognize that this situation is fluid, guidelines cannot cover every possibility.

We are asking for everyone to continue to consider others and especially those we serve when making decisions that are in their best interest. Basic common sense is generally our best guide. We serve a population with a host of pre-existing conditions that could make the impact from the Coronavirus more pronounced or impactful to them. Given the high transmission rate of the illness, we will continue to provide services with extra precautions to prevent its spread.

We understand success of serving our population during this crisis will require all partners being responsible, being flexible, and being able to lean on each other. Our operations will remain fluid and we will update you with additional changes.

Our Actions

Employees are not permitted to report to work if they are showing any symptoms of infection or have been in close contact with a person diagnosed with COVID-19.
We are eliminating large staff meetings and increasing the use of teleconferencing.
We are practicing Safe Distancing protocols.

Our Cafes

The Grande Cafe Roastery and Creative Café at Lifeworks:

We are continuing to adhere to all city and state regulations regarding sanitary protocols. We are also closely monitor any changing public health environment and new protocols recommended by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), the World Health Organization (WHO) and state and local health departments. In addition:

We are elevating our already stringent cleaning and sanitizing procedures and increasing the frequency of sanitizing frequently touched surfaces, such as tabletops, counter tops, point of sale equipment, and doorknobs.
Reinforcing our strict hand-washing practices with our employees.
Increasing the use of antibacterial hand sanitizers.

We sincerely hope you will continue to patronize the Grande Café Roastery to ensure that this location remains financially viable and we can continue the important vocational training happening at this site for individuals with disabilities, building employability skills and earning incomes. We have a convenient drive through for those desiring ease of service and/or social distancing and we will also offer delivery for orders over $25.00 to your home or business.

Our Café at Lodi Hospital is following hospital policy and will be closed until Covid 19 has subsided.

Our Dynamic Day Support Program, Vocational Habilitation Programs and Medina Creative Transitions Program will remain open at this time.

We have canceled all large events. The Easter Egg Hunt scheduled for March 28 at Medina Creative Therapy Ranch has been canceled. Resident Enrichment Program activities have been canceled for March and April. Our Annual fundraiser , Raising the Roof “Roaring into the 20’s” scheduled for April 4, has been rescheduled for June 6. Should our new Raising the Roof date not work with your schedule we sincerely apologize. However, if you cannot attend, I would ask for your continued support through purchasing Raffle Tickets for cash prizes in our Mad Mazuma Raffle or The Big 20 Raffle where you have a chance to win 1 of 20 prizes from trips to California, Chicago, dinner for 8 at Corkscrew and more.

I thank you for being a loyal supporter and friend of Medina Creative Housing and its Affiliates. We look forward to continuing to serve our community and friends. We will provide additional updates and recommendations as necessary in the coming days and weeks via constant contact, our website, and social media. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or concerns now or as the environment changes.

Wishing you and your family health during this difficult time.

Sincerely,

Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty

CEO

Life Steps Summer Camp Is Open for Registration.

Wed, 26 Feb 2020 13:46:37 GMT

Join us this summer for 10 weeks of life altering Experiences. Life Steps is offering a summer day educational program with a therapeutic component for those with disabilities. The camp is tailored to those 8 & up. Each week offers a different adventure and opportunities to improve social skills, learn life skills and build friendships. The cost of camp is $325.00 for the week. (A day rate is also available at $65.00 per day) Family rates are offered for $275.00 for the week, per family member. $75.00 Deposit Required

Camp Brochure 2020

Life Steps Registration2020

Celebrate Valentines at The Grande Cafe and Roastery

Fri, 07 Feb 2020 13:57:55 GMT

Come join us at the Grande Cafe and Roastery for breakfast, lunch or a cup of coffee. We have all the goodies you need for Valentines day. Come support our Valentines Day Bake Sale. We are raising funds for our new panini press. Join us us at 4080 Creative Living Way (next to Home Depot and GFS)

Grande Cafe and Roastery Ribbon Cutting Augurs Well for Latest Medina Creative Housing Venture

Wed, 23 Oct 2019 14:01:58 GMT

Monday’s ribbon cutting at Medina Creative Housing’s Grande Cafe and Roastery could hardly contain the large crowd that gathered for the event. The new business, located adjacent to Home Depot and Medina Creative Pet Play, provides opportunities for individuals with disabilities and features homegrown food and coffee from around the world. The ribbon cutting was the culmination of a difficult process to convert a former dog daycare into a coffeehouse. “Rome wasn’t built in a day,” commented Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing.

The transformation involved a long list of businesses and individuals who donated time, labor and materials to the multiyear project. Medina Creative Housing also repurposed items the organization already owned to add to a style DePasquale-Hagerty labeled “rustic industrial chic.” The resulting space is warm, light and utterly inviting. Patrons can sip gourmet coffee — sourced from global direct-trade growers — and dine on sandwiches, wraps, soups, salads, sweets and breakfast items, most of which feature ingredients from Medina Creative Housing’s nearby hydroponic greenhouse.

For more on this story, click HERE

Medina Creative Pet Play Halloween Party a Howling Success

Tue, 15 Oct 2019 14:12:47 GMT

Medina Creative Pet Play, 4105 Creative Living Way in Medina, hosted its fifth annual “Howl-o-ween” costume party Sunday afternoon (Oct. 13). The free event brought together friends, both four-legged and bipedal, to celebrate the achievements of workers with disabilities and the success of the doggie daycare and boarding facility.

Guests were welcomed by friendly smiles and ideal fall weather. The party featured costume contests, raffles, refreshments for all, games and plenty of interaction among visitors of all breeds and species.

The facility hosts holiday parties at various times of the year and many of the guests were familiar with each other. Nonetheless, Medina Creative Pet Play continues to experience growth.

“The community has really embraced this program, and we’re providing a valuable asset to the community,” said Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, the nonprofit organization responsible for the successful business.

For more on this story, click HERE

MCH Annual Fall Festival

Tue, 08 Oct 2019 14:17:57 GMT

The brilliant sunshine and crisp air made October 5 a picture-perfect autumn day for the 5th Annual Medina Creative Housing Fall Festival held at the Medina Creative Therapy Ranch, 5200 Lake Road, in Medina. The four-hour free event included a host of activities for the entertainment of all ages.

Under the direction of MCTR Director Sharon Biggins, 19 riders participated in a horse show in the outdoor ring where those in the MCTR program demonstrated their skills in the areas of showmanship walk and trot, barrels-assisted and independent walk and trot, jumping independent walk and trot, trail assisted and individual walk, and trail individual trot.

MCTR has 92 riders in five different programs designed to meet specific needs through therapeutic services; everything is geared to improve mental health by using horses. Luna is the ranch’s newest horse, and Mending Fences is the newest program recently added to the list. A sign near the outdoor ring says it all: “Because when I ride all I feel is fine.”

The grounds were brightly decorated with displays of friendly ghosts and other fall and Halloween symbols. In addition to watching the horse show, visitors to the Fall Fest were able to take part in a variety of activities: play games, enjoy hay rides, enter a costume contest, get a face painting, paint a pumpkin, do crafts in Pieh’s Paradise tree house, or simply take a stroll down the trick or treat trail…

Click HERE for more on this story.

Middleburg Heights Postpones Approval on Housing Development for Individuals with Disabilities

Tue, 01 Oct 2019 14:22:34 GMT

Medina Creative Housing Director Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty had high hopes for preliminary plan approval on Sept. 25 for a residential development designed for individuals who have disabilities.

It quickly became apparent, however, that the Middleburg Heights Planning Commission would have to defer its decision until DePasquale-Hagerty completes all required pre-approval processes.

The 16-unit housing project would be constructed where a long-defunct YWCA building recently was demolished at 6981 Smith Road.

DePasquale-Hagerty explained that it has taken four years to assemble all the project components, including seven layers of time-sensitive funding…

For more on this story, click HERE .

Local Boutique Selling Prom Dresses for $25, Accepting Dress Donations

Sat, 09 Feb 2019 14:51:39 GMT

Medina Creative Housing is taking the financial burden away for local girls who are looking to buy their prom dresses. Prom is considered a rite of passage in high school, but many girls struggle to afford a dress to wear to the dance. PromGirl listed an average prom dress price range of $100 to $600 on their website and according to a 2015 survey from Visa, American families were spending an average of about $919 on their prom-goers. Medina Creative Housing is cutting those costs by accepting prom dress donations and selling all dresses for $25.

Click HERE to read more.

Medina Horse Ranch Is Helping Children with Special Needs Develop Skills Outside the Classroom

Mon, 10 Sep 2018 15:11:03 GMT

“Circle your horse,” said Sharon Biggins, Director at the Medina Creative Therapy Ranch, while training one of the kids in the program.

It’s a place for support and training for kids with special needs to help them develop and strengthen their skills both in the classroom and in the arena.

“This is all about opportunities,” said Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, CEO of Medina Creative Housing, the nonprofit funding this ranch and 18 other programs like this in the area.

Creating the opportunity for kids like Rachel Colahan to be like other kids is what it’s all about.

“I like to ride them, I like to get on them and go phew,” Colahan said.

They learn how to handle the horse, give it commands and even compete.

“A lot of these kids don’t get to compete in their high school sports and community sports,” said Biggins.

To read more, click HERE

Medina Creative Therapy Ranch Wins Big!

Tue, 28 Aug 2018 15:14:33 GMT

State winners: Special Olympics Medina County and Medina Creative Therapy Ranch took a team of nine athletes to the State of Ohio Special Olympics Equestrian Competition in Cincinnati recently.

The athletes were Fiona Moore, Rachel Colahan, Tashia Freeman, Tony Romito, Ashley Betz, Betsy Listinski, Evan Janda, Julia Cooney and Lauren Bonus. They showed horses Twister, Willow, and Spirit from Medina Creative Therapy Ranch.

All of the athletes are riders at Medina Creative Therapy Ranch. They competed in Western and English equitation, barrel racing, show jumping, trail riding, showmanship, and dressage. This great team came home with two gold medals, one silver medal, and six bronze medals.

That’s amazing!

Medina Creative Housing Celebrates Independence, Showcases Eight New Apartment Units

Sun, 08 Jul 2018 15:16:30 GMT

On the eve of July 4, Medina Creative Housing held its ninth annual Independence Walk and Party, with the added attraction of a ribbon-cutting ceremony at 4125 and 4135 Creative Living Way — recently completed independent living units for eight new residents who have disabilities.

A small river of supporters wearing red T-shirts followed Hope, a Shetland pony pulling a cart carrying Sharon Biggins, director of the Creative Therapy Ranch, along Huntington Street. At 6 p.m., the group left Creative Living Complex I and II at 1120 N. Huntington St. to walk slowly through the hot, humid air to Creative Living Complex III and IV at 4100 Creative Living Way.

When all had arrived, Army Sgt. First Class Stephen Calahan and Veteran David Lariviere raised the American Flag, then led the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance.

After brief statements by Medina Creative Housing CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, Board President David Betsill, State Sen. Larry Obhoff (R-22), State Rep. Stephen Hambley (R-69) and other dignitaries, they and the eight new residents cut a wide, red ribbon to denote the official opening.

Click HERE to read more.

Raising the Roof Tours Italy

Sun, 15 Apr 2018 15:18:27 GMT

For a few hours, 375 enthusiastic attendees could forget about Ohio’s weird winter as they were greeted upon arrival by accordionist Bob Orlandi at Weymouth Country Club April 7 for a warm and welcoming “Tour of Italy,” the 12th annual “Raising the Roof” dinner and entertainment benefit presented by Medina Creative Housing.

This much-anticipated social event offered an evening brimming with mouth-watering Italian foods, music by The Avanti Band, delightful comedic entertainment by the “Creative Comedy Crew,” raffles and gaming opportunities to win exciting prizes, and live and silent auctions featuring impressive items. “Duty-free” shopping featuring MCH coffee, dog biscuits, and more also was available.

The food stations offered Italian varieties of soups, salads, pasta dishes, chicken, fish, and vegetable creations. Following the program, delicious desserts were served family-style at the tables; each table had a beautiful centerpiece created by committee members Diane Isaac and Kris Thomas.

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Medina County Nonprofit Unveils Housing for Disabled College Students

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 15:24:37 GMT

The nonprofit Medina Creative Housing unveiled a new program Wednesday, giving young adults with disabilities a fighting chance at college life.

The program is called Medina Creative Transitions and has two-parts — one is residential, the other caters to commuter students.

“This is a program that’s going to empower people, that is going to change lives,” said CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty.

Inside a large building on a quiet Brunswick street are eight unique efficiency apartment units — four with students with physical disabilities, four with students with mental disabilities.

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MCH Ribbon Cutting Ceremony

Mon, 15 Jan 2018 15:20:16 GMT

After almost two weeks of bitterly frigid weather, Mother Nature slipped in a couple pleasant days during which time the Medina Creative Housing team hosted a ribbon-cutting ceremony announcing the official opening of its Post Secondary Residential College Program.

Medina Creative Housing CEO Dianne DePasquale-Hagerty, the driving force who has been with MCH and its affiliates 15 years, began the January 10 ceremony with, “Welcome to Tropical Medina County — who but MCH would have a ribbon-cutting outdoors in January?”; those who know her agree she is one of the few people who can plan an outdoor event in January, in Ohio, and actually carry it off.

DePasquale-Hagerty told the crowd of about 50 people this latest venture is filling the gap for people with disabilities, making it possible for them to obtain higher education. She said, “This program (which does not exist anywhere else in the country) provides the recipe for success.”

The newly-built eight-bedroom facility located at 3987 Miller Drive, Brunswick, is the home of Medina Creative Transitions, where students with disabilities pursuing higher education will live while taking classes at Tri-C West Campus; they began moving into their “dorms” over the weekend. Essentially, they are getting to “go away to college.”

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