March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, and this year’s theme is “A World of Opportunities.” The focus is on celebrating people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), raising awareness regarding the inclusion of individuals with I/DD, and removing obstacles and barriers that still affect the disability community today. Direct Care Innovations believes everyone deserves an opportunity to succeed and thrive. We encourage you to celebrate Developmental Disability Awareness Month with us by learning about I/DD, spreading awareness, and supporting individuals with I/DD.

Learn More

If you are unfamiliar with developmental disabilities and how they affect people’s lives, take some time this month to learn more about them.

• Visit accurate and trusted websites to learn about I/DD and how you can support individuals with I/DD in your community.
• Research famous people with I/DD, such as Temple Grandin, Albert Einstein, Dan Akroyd, Stephen Hawking, and Frida Kahlo.
• Read blogs by nationally recognized developmental disability organizations and reputable advocacy groups.

Spread Awareness

Another practical way to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is to spread awareness about I/DD and the people living with them. One of the best methods is to use social media. Listen to and share stories of individuals with I/DD and their achievements. Follow people who live with I/DD to support them, discover who they are, and learn more about their unique experiences. Share how you celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and encourage others to join you.

Give & Support

Support organizations that inform, encourage, and advocate for individuals living with I/DD. Commit to a monthly donation or make a one-time gift to the organization of your choice. If you have personal experience with a specific disability or one of your family members lives with an I/DD, consider donating to an association or group that advocates for people living with that particular disability. Consider giving your time by volunteering with a community organization that enhances the lives of individuals living with I/DD.

Honoring Individuals with I/DD & Their Caregivers

We support individuals with I/DD and their families with our state-of-the-art business management software for caregiving organizations. Whether your loved one has a developmental disability or you live with an intellectual disability, Direct Care Innovations helps Medicaid and Medicare agencies, government agencies, managed care organizations, and self-directed agencies provide the best care possible with our all-in-one software system. Choose from features like electronic visit verification, scheduling and shift trading, payroll time and attendance, and more. Call (480) 295-3307 or request a sales demo today.

Source: “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.” Web page. National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities. Web. 28 Feb. 2024.