March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

By Jill Hinton, PhD, Clinical Director, NCSS

March has arrived, bringing with it the opportunity for the National Center for START Services to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). Each year, this month serves as a time to promote awareness, inclusion, and the meaningful participation of people with developmental disabilities in every aspect of community life.

This year’s theme — “We’re Here. Then, Now, Always.” — reminds us that people with developmental disabilities have always been, and will continue to be, integral members of our communities. Their presence, contributions, and voices shape our shared past, present, and future.

Our collective goal is to build welcoming communities that embrace interdependence and value the unique contributions of every individual. Through the START network, we have the opportunity to stand alongside people with developmental disabilities, families, service providers, and community partners to:

• Raise awareness
• Identify barriers to inclusive communities
• Work collaboratively to address and remove those barriers

Together, we can strengthen communities where everyone belongs.

Ways to Participate in Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

• Explore and participate in local events that celebrate inclusion and community engagement.
• Support or volunteer with organizations that promote inclusive communities.
• Engage directly with people with developmental disabilities, listening to and learning from their lived experiences.
• Educate and advocate by sharing resources, stories, and information on social media.

Use these hashtags to amplify your message:
#DevDisabilitiesAwareness2026
#DDAM2026
#InclusionMatters
#CelebrateDifferences
#EveryAbilityCounts
#AdvocateInclusivity

Let’s use this month as an opportunity not only to raise awareness—but to take meaningful action toward more inclusive, equitable communities for all.

Learn more from the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD).