March marks an important month for our community and the nation as a whole: Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. It’s a time to increase public awareness about the needs and potential of Americans with developmental disabilities. Yet, it’s more than just awareness; it’s about understanding, acceptance, and inclusion.
The history of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month began in 1987 when President Ronald Reagan urged Americans to provide the “encouragement and opportunities” necessary for people with developmental disabilities to reach their potential. Since then, efforts have been made to improve access to education, employment, and community living for those affected. However, the work is far from over. Despite significant progress, individuals with developmental disabilities continue to face barriers in the form of discrimination, stigma, unemployment, and poverty. Florida is second to last in spending on individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, according to the University of Colorado.
Here in District 42, we’ve seen firsthand the positive impact of community programs and services designed to support people with developmental disabilities. Quest Inc. is a local organization that recently completed construction on housing dedicated to adults with severe developmental disabilities, a big step forward for our local communities. Yet, we must continue to push for improvements and ensure that no one is left behind. In Florida, those with developmental disabilities are more likely to suffer from depression, obesity, diabetes, and heart disease according to the CDC.
Let’s use this month to reaffirm our commitment to creating a more inclusive and supportive community for everyone. I encourage everyone in House District 42 and beyond to continue advocating, volunteering, and educating ourselves and others. Together, we can ensure that our community remains a place where everyone, regardless of ability, has the opportunity to thrive.
In the spirit of continued support and learning, below is a list of organizations in Central Florida dedicated to uplifting the voices and lives of those with developmental disabilities. Let’s explore how we can contribute to their invaluable work.
Organizations in Central FL that uplift voices of those with developmental disabilities:
- Attain Inc: The non-profit provides community-based programs for those with developmental disabilities. The programs allow for the people who are there to make their own decisions and become more independent through the resources provided.
- Best Buddies: An international organization that provides those with intellectual and developmental disorders connections with volunteers to be mentors, friends, and companions as they develop and grow.
- Center for Health Learning and Achievement: Provides special education assistance to children affected by ADHD, Autism Spectrum Disorder, and Dyslexia in Winter Park, Orlando, Maitland, and other Central Florida areas.
- Center for Independent Living (CIL): The Center for Independent Living constructs and maintains community-based housing for those with disabilities that affect their ability to live independently. Rather than living institutionally, these communities allow these individuals to make their own decisions and develop.
- Down Syndrome Association of Central Florida: The DSACF provides advocacy, training, and support to families and individuals living with Down syndrome. Events such as the Down To Party Gala raise funds for awareness and resources for those affected.
- Florida Branch – International Dyslexia Association: The IDA works with educators, parents, and paraprofessionals to study and help those with dyslexia learn to read and accommodate their disabilities through IEPs and 504 plans in schools.
- Florida CARD: Florida CARD operates a local branch at UCF and other partner universities to help assist those with moderate to severe Autism diagnoses and connecting individuals to resources.
- Hemophilia Foundation of Greater Florida: The organization raises awareness, educates communities, and supports families within the bleeding disorder community. They also have volunteer opportunities that provide education and advocacy within the local community..
- Inspire of Central Florida: The organization helps to provide educational, vocational, residential, and transportation needs to those with developmental disabilities in Central FL. The organization aims to allow adults with developmental disabilities to live, work, and succeed in the community.
- MAGICAL Self Advocacy: A self-advocacy group based in Orlando for those that identify as someone with a disability or chronic illness.
- Quest Inc.: The organization has employment services, training services, children’s therapy, a children’s educational academy, a summer camp for adults, a residential community, and more for those with developmental disabilities.
- UCF Card: It is the center for autism and related disabilities for the Central Florida area. It provides resources and programs, especially for autism.