March Is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month a time to raise awareness and promote inclusion and acceptance for people with disabilities or other challenges.

Since 1954, Ontario ARC has been a resource for people with intellectual and other developmental disabilities and their families. With a focus on providing innovative service options and transition supports, we are with you every step of the way!

Looking for ways to get involved? Here are 10 ways to take action for people with disabilities in March and all year long:

  1. Volunteer in your community! Ontario ARC offers a number of volunteer opportunities- whether you want to help with our day services, recreational activities, Pet Connections, or residences, we’ll find an opportunity that matches your interests and the amount of time you have to give.

  2. Attend one of Ontario ARC’s Signature Fundraising events. Every dollar raised supports opportunities for people with disabilities or other challenges in our community.

  3. Follow Ontario ARCPet Connections, or North Star Coffee on Facebook.

  4. Sign up for our e-newsletter or contact us to receive the latest print edition of ARC Life in your mailbox!

  5. Join Ontario ARC,  Pet Connections, and North Star Coffee on Instagram.

  6. Make a donation! When you give to Ontario ARC, you support our vital programs and services, and you also become a member of our organization, giving us a stronger voice in Albany when issues in our field arise.

  7. Help provide employment opportunities for people with disabilities at your organization. You’ll not only gain a motivated employee, you’ll help someone engage in their community and promote their independence.

  8. Support businesses that employ people with disabilities. Here at Ontario ARC, we have our very own social enterprises that are creating jobs for people with disabilities in our community such as North Star CoffeeBAD DOG Spa, and Spot On Cleaning Company!

  9. Be respectful in your words and actions when talking about people with disabilities and encourage your friends and family members to do the same. Ontario ARC’s Self-Advocacy Group is hosting an End the “R-Word” Event on Wednesday, March 7, 2018 to raise awareness. Consider planning a similar event of your own! Resource materials can be found on the End the R-Word Campaign Website.

  10. Host a training to educate your community about people with disabilities. Ontario ARC offers a broad selection of training opportunities including familiarizing the public with autism and how to interact with someone on the spectrum. We also offer a Speakers Series of ongoing educational events.

Ontario ARC