National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month: Inclusion, Advocacy, and Community
March is recognized as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to celebrate contributions of people with developmental disabilities and the importance of building communities where everyone belongs. Here in Paulding County, that commitment to inclusion continues to grow through advocacy, community partnerships, and the voices of people with lived experience.
People with developmental disabilities are active members of our communities. They are students, employees, neighbors, volunteers, and friends whose talents and perspectives strengthen our schools, workplaces, and neighborhoods. True inclusion means ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to participate fully in community life and pursue the goals that matter most to them.
Across Ohio, more than 110,000 children and adults with developmental disabilities receive support through their local County Boards of DD. These services exist today because individuals with disabilities and their families spoke up many years ago about the need for better opportunities and support. Continued advocacy by individuals and families helped build a strong system that allows people to receive services locally while remaining connected to their communities.
In Paulding County, inclusion and advocacy continue to shape how services and decisions are made. In April 2025, Paulding County resident Shenia Mesker, an individual who receives services through the Paulding County Board of DD, was appointed to serve as a member of the DD board; the first time this has occurred in Paulding County. Including the perspective of someone with lived experience, helps ensure decisions reflect the real needs, goals, and priorities of the people the system supports.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that creating an inclusive community is something everyone can help build. Inclusion happens when neighbors welcome one another, employers create opportunities for people of all abilities, community organizations offer accessible programs, and individuals are supported in pursuing their interests and talents. In recognition of this commitment, the Paulding County Commissioners recently signed a proclamation recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and celebrating the contributions of people with developmental disabilities in our community. When people with developmental disabilities are included and valued, our entire community grows stronger.
To learn more about services offered by the Paulding County Board of DD, please contact our office at (419) 399-4800. We also welcome ideas from community members about how our communities can become even more inclusive. If you have suggestions or ideas to make our communities more welcoming and accessible for everyone, we encourage you to reach out and share them with us.
