GB Magazine July 2022 | Page 96

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“ When we decided to overhaul our website , we really wanted to represent the community that we serve ,” Barnes said . “ We took a competent team of video professionals with I / DD and facilitated moments where they could gather images and video .”

The result is breathtaking – photos and videos that exude energy , action , and joy .

The website has been transformed into a hub for those with I / DD seeking services , as well as employers , service providers , and others seeking to learn more . For example , it includes a knowledge base with a glossary of terms and a list of commonly used acronyms in the I / DD community .

The Americans with Disabilities Act requires websites to be accessible . OFA ’ s website includes a widget that aims to make it easier for disabled viewers – such as someone with colorblindness or dyslexia – to access the content . The site can be adjusted for contrast , spacing , and text size .

Strengthening Core Operations

Along with the new website , during the past year , OFA focused on strengthening its internal operations in multiple ways , including updating servers launching an intranet , and transitioning to cloud-based platforms .

Two years ago , OFA served approximately 84 % of those eligible for service . Relying on data-driven metrics , the leadership team restructured the referral and scheduling processes , and implemented a program-based , rather than geographical , staffing model . OFA ’ s service providers can now serve 99 % or an additional 200 families per month .

OFA also improved staff turnover rates , which have been as high as 105 % per year . Now , turnover is less than 20 %.

Improving Lives

OFA is transforming lives throughout the I / DD community through advocacy and innovation .

In addition to no longer supporting employers who pay our participants less than the minimum wage , Barnes worked to pass California Senate Bill 639 , which bans the payment of sub-minimum wages – as little as $ 2 per hour – for persons with disabilities .

OFA also launched an innovative partnership with Drexel University to design a new program for seniors with ID / D .

OFA ’ s efforts have been recognized locally and nationally . Recently , the organization received the Adam Heavner Award for Business of the Year from the Autism Society of America and was named the 2020 San Diego Pride Partner of the Year .