What Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Means to Us
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), a national campaign established in 1987 and led by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities.
Each year, this month is dedicated to raising awareness, promoting inclusion, and highlighting the contributions of people with developmental disabilities across our communities.
This month, we join organizations nationwide in celebrating ability, inclusion, and the voices of people with developmental disabilities.
What Inclusion Means to Us at Opportunities, Inc.
At Opportunities, Inc., inclusion is more than a word. It is action.
“Inclusion means more than access—it means real belonging. People with developmental disabilities should be empowered to make choices, contribute their talents, build meaningful relationships, and be recognized as valued members of their communities.”
— Rob Baynard, CEO
Inclusion means:
- People have choices about their own lives.
- People are active participants in their communities.
- People are supported in building confidence, independence, and meaningful relationships.
- People are seen for their strengths, talents, and contributions.
Inclusion means belonging.
- It means riding public transportation independently.
- It means volunteering and giving back.
- It means having a job you’re proud of.
- It means making friends and building community connections.
- It means having your voice heard.
Every day, we see inclusion in action through Community Life Engagement, employment services, travel training, advocacy, and the partnerships that make opportunity possible.
Why This Month Matters
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that inclusion does not happen by accident. It happens through commitment, collaboration, and advocacy.
It happens when:
- Employers open their doors.
- Communities remove barriers.
- Families share their stories.
- Policymakers listen.
And when people with developmental disabilities lead the way in shaping their own futures.
Awareness leads to understanding.
Understanding leads to opportunity.
Opportunity leads to inclusion.
Join Us This March
Throughout March, we will be sharing stories, milestones, and moments that reflect the power of inclusion.
You’ll hear directly from the people we support, see the impact of community partnerships, and learn more about how we are working to create a more inclusive future. We invite you to follow along, share, engage, and celebrate with us. Because inclusion is not just a goal. It is the standard we strive to build every day.