Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Oregon & Washington Events and Ways to Get Involved

Northwest Mental Health Management Services acknowledges March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Every March, communities across the country celebrate Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month, recognizing the contributions, leadership, and achievements of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities while encouraging inclusion in all aspects of community life.

Awareness month is also an opportunity for families, caregivers, Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), and community partners to connect with local events, advocacy opportunities, and educational resources.

Oregon: Ways to Participate

Here are local organizations and events offering opportunities to engage across Oregon:

• Oregon Council on Developmental Disabilities (OCDD) Advocacy initiatives, storytelling campaigns, leadership training, and DD Awareness Month toolkits to help individuals and organizations promote inclusion and community engagement.

• Washington County Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Events Community recognition events, proclamations, and awareness activities celebrating the accomplishments of individuals with developmental disabilities and encouraging inclusion.

• Multnomah County I/DD Awareness Programs Educational panels, advocacy discussions, and community gatherings focused on housing equity, services, and empowerment for individuals with I/DD.

• Clackamas County I/DD Awareness Programs Community panels and advocacy events highlighting housing equity, support services, and pathways to greater independence for individuals with I/DD.
  

Washington: Ways to Participate

Community organizations throughout Washington provide resources, volunteer opportunities, and advocacy activities:

• Washington State Developmental Disabilities Services Awareness Resources Statewide initiatives promoting education, advocacy, and community participation during DD Awareness Month.

• Informing Families Washington – DD Awareness Month Resources Community education resources, advocacy opportunities, and leadership programs supporting families and individuals across the state.
  

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Simple Ways Anyone Can Participate

Whether you are a professional caregiver, employer, educator, or community member, you can support DD Awareness Month by:

• Attending local inclusion or advocacy events

• Volunteering with disability-focused organizations

• Hiring inclusively and supporting employment programs

• Sharing awareness posts and educational resources

• Supporting local businesses operated by individuals with disabilities

• Encouraging community conversations about accessibility and inclusion

When communities create opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities to live, work, and participate fully, everyone benefits.

Join the Movement

Northwest Mental Health Management Services encourages our community, partners, families, and DSP workforce to participate in Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by learning, advocating, and celebrating the strengths of people with I/DD. Together, we can help build communities where inclusion is the expectation—not the exception.

Now Hiring! Developmental Disability Program Manager

Headquarters Northwest Mental Health - Gladstone, OR

From $63,663 a year

This is a management position responsible for the daily operation of a residential facility supporting people with developmental disabilities and/or mental illness.

Apply Today!