Observed every March, Developmental Disability Awareness Month (DDAM) celebrates people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and highlights how people with and without disabilities come together to form strong communities while continuing to advocate for greater inclusion, accessibility, and opportunities.  

The Arc Central Chesapeake Region (The Arc) joins organizations across the country to celebrate DDAM. This year’s theme: We’re Here All Year, emphasizes that community, accessibility, and opportunities for people with IDD should be recognized and championed every day – not just in March. People with IDD are essential members of our communities and deserve both choice and full participation in all aspects of life. DDAM is a powerful reminder of why we do this work—not just to provide services, but to transform communities and create a world where people with IDD are valued, supported, and empowered. 

The History and Evolution of Developmental Disability Awareness Month 

Developmental Disability Awareness Month DDAM was first recognized in 1987 when President Ronald Reagan called on all Americans to promote more opportunities for people with IDD to live independently and fully participate in society. Since then, DDAM has grown into a nationwide effort to raise awareness, advance policy changes, and celebrate the achievements of people with IDD. 

National campaigns, notably those spearheaded by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) amplify the voices of people with IDD through storytelling, social media engagement, and public events that challenge outdated perceptions.  

Initiatives like DDAM support disability rights groups to advocate for legislation that enhances access to housing, healthcare, employment, and education for people with IDD. These concerted efforts have historically led to significant reforms, such as the enactment of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) in 1990 and increased investments in inclusive programs. 

While DDAM provides an opportunity for heightened awareness, true awareness happens when we commit to creating opportunities for inclusion year-round. 

A Legacy Rooted in Advocacy 

The Arc was founded in 1961 by a group of parents who wanted a different life for their children with IDD. While people with IDD faced systemic exclusion from education, employment, and community life, these parents took a stand, demanding change. Their determination was part of a larger national movement, which saw the creation of Arc chapters across the country, each working toward a common goal: ensuring that people with IDD have the same rights, opportunities, and quality of life as anyone else.  

Over the last six decades, The Arc has grown and expanded in ways far beyond our founders’ expectations. Yet, our focus on community, constant innovation, and the connection between services, housing, and community development are exactly what they set out to do.  

They knew more was possible, and we’re proud to say that today, our work continues their legacy of knowing that we can always do more to create equitable communities. Our work is fueled by creativity, innovation, opportunity, and their original vision of a community where everyone – including people with IDD – is welcome, included, and empowered. It inspires us to continue to reimagine what communities can and should look like and prompts us to ask: what else can be done, and what else is possible? 

As we celebrate Developmental Disability Awareness Month DDAM, we reflect on the ways we live the theme: We’re Here All Year. The Arc supports and advocates for people with IDD every day, empowering people to live the lives they choose for themselves. That means:  

• Creating Inclusive Housing Opportunities: The Arc works to create accessible housing options for people with IDD, ensuring they have stable living environments that foster independence and community integration. 

• Ensuring Access to Employment: Through our Workforce Development program, The Arc helps people with IDD access meaningful employment, providing training and job placement services to break down barriers in the workforce. 

• Advocating for Disability Rights: The Arc actively advocates for policies and legislation that protect and enhance the rights of people with IDD, such as increasing access to healthcare, education, and community services. We also encourage self-advocacy through Living Boldly, a public group open to anyone with an intellectual or developmental disability.   

• Community Integration and Support Services: The Arc provides a variety of services to help people with IDD live independently and participate fully in their communities, including Living Options and Services, Day Services, Behavioral Health, and support for families. 

Be a Part of the Movement 

DDAM is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action. While incredible progress has been made, true inclusion requires bold thinking, persistent advocacy, and a commitment to removing barriers. 

As we reflect on our history and look toward the future, we invite you to be part of this movement: 

• Engage in conversations about inclusion in your workplace and community. 

• Support policies that promote equity and accessibility for people with IDD. 

• Donate to The Arc to help build a more inclusive future. 

• Join our Newsletter or engage with us on social media to stay up to date on IDD news and events.  

The work we do today is part of a legacy that started over 60 years ago. And just like our founders knew then, we know that more is possible.