Every year we celebrate March as national Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and this year The Arc Arapahoe & Douglas Counties is calling on all of our members to join us in Revealing the Faces of Intellectual and Developmental Disability. We are encouraging everyone to raise awareness about people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) by personalizing the narrative. We cannot let DD Awareness month become a symbolic gesture – it’s about people’s lives, including yours!

Here are just a few examples of everyday ways you can help raise awareness, no matter what time of year!

• If you have school aged children, host an inclusive play date. Contact your local recreation leagues to arrange a fun sports day or fun walk. Get together with other parents and participate in group activities.

• Submit a letter to the editor of your local newspaper promoting or calling for more inclusive activities for people with I/DD in the community. Encourage others to reach out to members of the local media to help bring awareness to Developmental Disabilities month and share your letter on any social media platforms you use.  Reach out to Kelie (our Communications Coordinator) she would be happy to help you – email her at [email protected] if you’re interested.

• Plan an outing to the movies. Check for upcoming show times of sensory friendly films at your local theaters and organize with your local chapter of The Arc or other parents and caregivers to have a group trip to the movies.

• Updating your Facebook or Twitter status can spread DD Awareness and show members of your community that you value inclusion and respect for people with I/DD. You can share our posts throughout the month or share your own content on our Facebook wall.

March is our Month! #DDAware – Pass it on!!!