Each March, we celebrate Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness month. This national campaign is led by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD), which represents 56 Governor-appointed State Councils on Developmental Disabilities across the United States and its territories.

At CDS, we work closely with the Hawai‘i State Council on Developmental Disabilities to promote inclusion, remove barriers, and share information and resources with our community. This year, the NACDD DD Awareness Month theme is “We’re Here. Then, Now, Always,” emphasizing that disability has always been part of the human experience, and highlighting the lasting need for inclusion, supports, advocacy, and opportunities for people with developmental disabilities.

So as we enter the month of March, let us lean into our shared resolve that individuals with developmental disabilities are valuable members of our communities and deserve full participation in all aspects of life. We must all do our part to foster a society where people with developmental disabilities are respected and empowered to contribute to their communities. Let us also remember that true awareness, inclusion, and belonging happens when we commit year-round to creating accessible environments and meaningful opportunities for all.

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Promoting Diverse
Abilities Across the Lifespan

Read Spring 2026 Full Issue

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