Northwest Mental Health Management Services Recognizes Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
- Michael Merrill
- Mar 3
- 3 min read
Updated: Mar 19
Every March, Northwest Mental Health Management Services joins organizations nationwide in recognizing Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This annual campaign highlights the importance of inclusion, accessibility, and opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities.
The 2025 theme, "We’re Here All Year," reminds us that awareness and advocacy shouldn’t be limited to just one month—people with developmental disabilities contribute to our communities every day, and it’s our collective responsibility to ensure they have equitable access to education, employment, recreation, and civic engagement.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month was first established in 1987 by President Ronald Reagan to promote understanding and inclusion. While March serves as a time to amplify these conversations, we are committed to fostering an environment where individuals with developmental disabilities feel supported and empowered year-round.
As part of the national campaign, individuals with lived experience are encouraged to share their stories. Whether it’s through work, volunteering, or daily activities, these stories showcase the strength and diversity of our community. Submissions will be featured in an online photo gallery later this spring. Learn more about how you can participate here.
At Northwest Mental Health Management Services, we believe that when everyone has the opportunity to fully engage in their community, we all benefit. This March—and every month—we celebrate the resilience, talents, and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities.
More Resouces and Information:
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) – Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Offers comprehensive resources and campaign materials for DDAM.
Administration for Community Living (ACL) – Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2024: Provides information on observances and events related to DDAM. acl.gov
Autism Society – Resources: Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month & National Women's History Month: Features resources focusing on DDAM and Women's History Month.
The Arc – Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Shattering Stigmas and Obstacles: Discusses the importance of DDAM and efforts to overcome challenges faced by individuals with developmental disabilities.
Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities: Developmental Disabilities Awareness Always We are excited to share the proclamation signed by Governor Tina Kotek, officially kicking off the start of 2025 DD Awareness Month, and inviting all Oregonians to celebrate members of Oregon’s I/DD community and the many ways they contribute to their local communities.
https://www.ocdd.org/dd-awareness
Ways to participate locally in Oregon:
Celebration gathering
Join OCDD for a community event Friday, March 7. You can come in person or virtually. I’ll be there along with other ODDS staff. Self-advocates will share their experiences. Community leaders will speak. OCDD will reveal this year’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month poster. You’ll have time to mingle and eat cake.
· Date: March 7
· Time: Noon to 1 p.m., Pacific Standard Time
· Attend in-person: Lobby of the Oregon Department of Human Services Building, 500 Summer St. NE, Salem, OR 97301
· Attend remotely: Use this Zoom link to join the meeting.
· To join by phone, dial 669-254-5252. When asked, enter this meeting ID: 161 442 6159.
· Accommodations: We want everyone to feel welcome and safe. OCDD will provide free support for you to fully participate, including:
· American Sign Language
· Spanish interpreter
· If you need other languages or supports, call 503-779-5389 or email info@ocdd.org by 10 a.m. on March 5.
· If have questions about the event, please email info@ocdd.org.
Participation toolkit
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