Marshall County Hosts First All For One Resource Fair to Support Families with Disabilities
MARSHALL COUNTY, W.Va. — In a notable initiative aimed at assisting families of individuals with disabilities, Marshall County Schools hosted its inaugural All For One Resource Fair on Tuesday. The event, held at the Marshall County Fairgrounds, was a collaborative effort between Russell Nesbitt Services, the Marshall County Resource Network, and the Marshall County Board of Education.
The primary objective of the resource fair was to consolidate various support services into a single accessible location, thereby simplifying access for families in need. Emily Doyle, the Employment Services Manager at Russell Nesbitt Services and co-chair of the event, highlighted a common challenge many families face: the fragmentation of resources. “Often times, we have great programs with phenomenal funding and mission statements, but they’re not all in the same place,” Doyle stated. This lack of coordination can create unnecessary barriers for those seeking assistance, particularly in expansive regions like Marshall County.
The fair featured an array of vendors from diverse sectors, including healthcare, residential support, and professional development. Participants were also treated to engaging activities, games, and refreshments, making the event both informative and enjoyable for all attendees. One of the prominent organizations present was the Easterseals Rehabilitation Center, known for its comprehensive disability services. Betsy Bethel-McFarland, Marketing Director at Easterseals, emphasized the importance of face-to-face interactions in fostering community understanding. “A lot of people don’t know what Easterseals does, so we talk about our pediatric rehabilitation services, aiming to provide individuals with the best support possible,” she noted.
Doyle pointed out a growing demand for Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) among students, suggesting that many require support beyond what is traditionally available in classrooms. She expressed a desire for the fair to raise awareness about these needs and help families navigate the available resources more effectively. “The biggest thing to remember is you don’t know what you don’t know,” Doyle explained. She emphasized that many parents and students may hesitate to seek help, underscoring the fair’s role in making those connections easier.
As the day progressed, the All For One Resource Fair emerged as a vital platform for advocacy and support, aiming to empower families with the knowledge and tools necessary to enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in Marshall County. The collaborative nature of the event showcased a commitment to inclusivity and community welfare, setting a precedent for future initiatives aimed at bridging resource gaps in the region.
