A state agency in Ohio that helps people with disabilities prepare for, find, and keep meaningful employment and get connected with needed supports and services.
📌 What OOD Does
OOD partners with individuals, employers, and community organizations to help people with disabilities:
- Find and keep employment through personalized vocational services and job supports.
- Provide Vocational Rehabilitation services, including assessments, job coaching, workplace accommodations, career planning, job search assistance, and training.
- Assist with Social Security disability benefits application or determination.
- Offer student-focused programs like College2Careers (support during and after postsecondary education) and apprenticeships.
- Through initiatives like Accessible Ohio, help businesses and public spaces improve disability inclusion and accessibility.
Programs and services are free or based on need as part of state and federal funding.
📑 How to Access Services
📝 Apply for Support & Vocational Rehabilitation
• OOD Works portal — where you can start an application or log in to continue services: OOD Works application page
• Online application start — secure portal for new applicants: Start an application with OOD
📞 General Vocational Rehabilitation Assistance:
• Toll-free phone: 800-282-4536 (for general questions or to begin services)
• Local phone: 614-438-1200 (OOD Columbus/South Central office)
🏢 Main Office & Contact (Columbus, Ohio)
Opportunities for Ohioans with Disabilities (OOD)
📍 150 E. Campus View Boulevard
Columbus, OH 43235 (State agency headquarters)
📞 Phone:
• Toll-free: 800-282-4536
• Direct: 614-438-1200
📩 Email: info@ood.ohio.gov (general contact)
🌐 Website: https://ood.ohio.gov/
🕐 Typical Hours
State agencies like OOD generally operate Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM (hours can vary by department). Call ahead to confirm specific program availability.
📌 Other Helpful Links & Programs
📍 Find an Office Near You
• Office Locator: https://ood.ohio.gov/about-us/find+us/find-us (search for local offices statewide)
🎓 Student & Youth Supports
• College2Careers Program: Helps students with disabilities explore careers and support through college:
👉 https://ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/ohio-college-2-careers
🧑🏭 Apprentice Opportunities
• Vocational Apprentice Program: Paid apprenticeships that can lead to permanent employment:
👉 https://ood.ohio.gov/information-for-individuals/services/student-services/postsecondary/ohio-vocational-apprentice-program
📌 Quick Summary
Who qualifies: Ohio residents with a disability who want help preparing for, finding, or maintaining employment or need related supports (including Social Security disability determination support).
Cost: Most services are free or based on income/need through state and federal funding.
Getting started:
✔ Call 800-282-4536 to speak with a counselor
✔ Apply online at OOD Works portal
✔ Visit a local OOD office for in-person help
