March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Published 10:19 am Thursday, March 5, 2026
March marks Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to honor and uplift people with developmental disabilities across Alabama. This year’s theme is WE’RE HERE. THEN. NOW. ALWAYS.
According to a statement from the Alabama Department of Mental Health, “Across the state, more than 120,000 Alabamians with developmental disabilities are building lives filled with purpose — sharing time with loved ones, learning in classrooms, contributing in the workplace and participating in community life. Their talents, perspectives and experiences strengthen families, neighborhoods and local economies.”
“Every day, our teams focus on providing meaningful supports that help people build the lives they choose,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell. “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month offers more opportunities to recognize their contributions and celebrate the value each person brings to their family, community and our state.”
ADMH, through its Division of Developmental Disabilities, partners with local providers to offer services designed around each person’s goals, preferences and strengths. These supports are intended to help individuals make choices about their own lives, increase independence and move toward what matters most to them.
Working alongside organizations such as the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities (ACDD), ADMH promotes access to services, skill development and full participation in everyday life. Through collaboration and shared commitment, these partnerships expand opportunities for people to pursue personal, educational and career aspirations, according to ADMH.
From early childhood supports to services that assist adults in finding meaningful work and community involvement, ADMH assists individuals to shape futures that reflect their ambitions and abilities.
The ADMH offers three waivers: the Intellectual Disabilities (ID) Waiver, the Living at Home (LAH) Waiver, and the Community Waiver Program (CWP) which provide resources including support coordination, personal care, assistive technology, remote supports, employment assistance, housing assistance and other community-based options tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Together with community partners, ADMH continues to broaden access to services that promote safety, autonomy, and dignity—ensuring that people with developmental disabilities have the tools and opportunities to thrive.
To learn more, visit https://mh.alabama.gov/division-of-developmental-disabilities/.
