Understanding the History of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month – and Why It Matters to neba

Every March, we recognize Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM). This month is a time to raise awareness, celebrate progress, and continue the work of building inclusive communities where people with developmental disabilities can live, work, and belong.

For neba, this month is especially meaningful. Since 1983, our mission has focused on helping individuals find meaningful employment and build strong connections within their communities. The history of DDAM reflects many of the same values that guide our work each day: inclusion, dignity, and opportunity.

How Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Began
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month was first established in 1987 to encourage greater understanding of the abilities and contributions of people with developmental disabilities. The goal was to increase awareness and ensure individuals had the support and opportunities needed to live full, productive lives.

This recognition was part of a larger movement that had already been growing for decades.

The Disability Rights Movement: A Shift Toward Inclusion
Before the 1960s and 1970s, many individuals with developmental disabilities were excluded from schools, workplaces, and community life. Large institutions were common, and access to opportunity was limited.

Advocacy from families, self-advocates, and community organizations helped change that over time. Their efforts led to a shift toward more inclusive supports and services.

Key changes included:

• Community living instead of institutional settings
• Inclusive education opportunities
• Equal rights and legal protections
• Access to meaningful employment
• Person-centered services and supports

These changes helped shape the services and employment supports that exist today, including the work neba provides across the communities we serve.

How the Message of DDAM Has Evolved
In its early years, DDAM focused mainly on education and reducing stigma. Today, the message has grown to highlight true inclusion, belonging, and full participation in community life.

Modern awareness efforts emphasize:

• The strengths and talents of individuals with disabilities
• Competitive, integrated employment
• Independence and self-determination
• Active community involvement

This shift reflects a broader understanding that people with developmental disabilities are valuable members of the workforce and the community.
Where neba’s Mission Fits Into This HistoryThe mission of neba is closely aligned with the purpose of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Since 1983, neba has partnered with individuals, families, employers, and communities to support meaningful, competitive, and integrated employment.

This work reflects the same values that have shaped DDAM over time – the belief that every person has strengths, goals, and the right to be included in their community.

At its core, neba’s approach focuses on:

• Recognizing each person’s potential
• Supporting independence and informed choice
• Encouraging inclusion in workplaces and communities
• Expanding opportunities, not limiting them

Meaningful employment is about more than having a job. It supports confidence, independence, purpose, and a sense of belonging. In many ways, the message of DDAM reinforces what neba works toward every day: access to employment and community life is not a privilege, but an essential part of equity and inclusion.

Why Awareness Still Matters Today
While there has been important progress, barriers still exist. Many individuals with developmental disabilities continue to face challenges related to hiring, workplace inclusion, and community participation.

That is why awareness remains so important.

Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month helps:

• Educate communities and employers
• Reduce stigma and misconceptions
• Promote inclusive hiring practices
• Highlight the value of diverse workplaces
• Strengthen community partnerships

At neba, we see firsthand how inclusive employment can change lives – not only for the individual, but also for families, workplaces, and communities.
What Inclusion Looks Like in ActionInclusion is not just an idea. It is something built through everyday actions and intentional support.

This can include:

• Employers creating accessible and supportive workplaces
• Communities investing in inclusive programs
• Service providers offering individualized supports
• Individuals being supported in exploring their strengths and career goals

​neba’s services are rooted in this person-centered approach, focusing on long-term success, community connection, and meaningful employment outcomes.

Looking Ahead: Continuing the Work
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is not only about reflecting on history. It is also about continuing the work toward a more inclusive future.

For neba, this means continuing to:

• Partner with inclusive employers
• Support individuals in reaching their employment goals
• Advocate for equitable opportunities
• Build stronger, more inclusive communities

A Shared Commitment to BelongingThe history of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that progress happens when communities choose inclusion. It represents decades of advocacy, growth, and commitment to equal opportunity.

At neba, this mission continues every day through the work we do and the individuals we support. March is a time to raise awareness, celebrate achievements, and recommit to a future where everyone has the opportunity to work, contribute, and belong.