Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

A month to raise awareness of the needs and potential of people with developmental disabilities, including autism, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, and cerebral palsy. Established by presidential proclamation in the US.

History

President Ronald Reagan proclaimed March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in 1987. The goal was to increase public awareness about including people with developmental disabilities in all aspects of community life.

How to Participate

• →Learn about the range of developmental disabilities and how they differ
• →Support inclusive employment and housing initiatives in your community
• →Advocate for Medicaid and waiver programs that keep people in their communities
• →Connect with your state's developmental disability council
• →Read first-person accounts from people with developmental disabilities about their lives

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