Make your mark during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Thanks to the advocacy efforts of The Arc in the 1980s, President Ronald Reagan officially declared March to be Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in 1987. Now that month is recognized by groups across the country as a time to speak up about the challenges facing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families. For nearly a quarter of a century, The Arc and its network of 700+ chapters across the country have made tremendous progress in promoting and protecting the rights of people with I/DD and creating opportunities for them to live, learn and work as valued members of their communities. However, there is still more work to be done.

In 2012, in the run up to a pivotal election, it’s crucial that you join The Arc to let our elected officials know about the challenges faced by people with I/DD and what we expect them to do about it. Make your mark on the 2012 election by getting the word out about Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Help raise awareness about the issues among the candidates and potential voters. Speak up and help enlighten those around you. Find out more about I/DD and what you can do at thearc.org. They've posted even more suggestions for specific ways to help raise awareness on their blog so check it out and follow.