Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month!

Every March, the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DCBDD) and our partners collaborate to celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This month-long campaign serves as an opportunity to celebrate the accomplishments and contributions of individuals with developmental disabilities while fostering an environment where everyone can thrive.

Below is our 2026 schedule. Stay up-to-date on all of our events by following us on Facebook and checking out our Facebook events!

Our 2026 Schedule

Monday, March 2nd

DCBDD Family Forum

6 – 7:30 p.m.

Caribou Coffee, 1752 Columbus Pike, Delaware, OH

We are excited to invite you to the DCBDD Family Forum, a platform designed to foster collaboration and empower families in our community who have a member with developmental disabilities.

The DCBDD Family Forum serves as a space for families to connect, share experiences, and access information about the Delaware County Board of Developmental Disabilities (DCBDD) services, resources, and initiatives. Through this forum, families will have the opportunity to:

Participate in discussions on various topics related to developmental disabilities and share knowledge and advice with other families
Stay informed about the latest updates in developmental disabilities programs, services, and initiatives
Provide valuable input and feedback to DCBDD, helping shape the future of our organization and the services we provide

Our goal is to create a supportive environment where families can come together to navigate the challenges and celebrate the successes of their loved ones with developmental disabilities. We believe that by working together, we can build a stronger, more inclusive community for all. We look forward to connecting with you and working together to support our loved ones and create positive change in Delaware County!

Wednesday, March 4th

DD Awareness & Advocacy Day

The Developmental Disability (DD) Advocacy and Awareness Day is an annual event that has been held for more than a decade at the Ohio Statehouse in March, during DD Awareness Month. The event is meant to educate and empower Ohioans with developmental disabilities, their family members, and other community allies to come together on a single day to advocate for policy issues that impact the lives of people with developmental disabilities.

More about DD Awareness & Advocacy Day.

Wear Blue for Inclusion!

Wednesday, March 11th

Coffee with a Cause: Disability Inclusion in Action

7 a.m.

COhatch Polaris, 1554 Polaris Pkwy, Columbus

Join the CYP Club for coffee and conversations with fellow members and community leaders. DCBDD’s Director of Communications & Community Engagement, Chase Waits will be featured on March’s Coffee with a Cause panel on “Disability Inclusion in Action” at COHatch Polaris.

Friday, March 20th

Technology Summit with The Ohio State University Nisonger Center & Works4Me

9 a.m.

Delaware County Library: Liberty Branch, 7468 Steitz Rd, Powell

From smart home and assistive technologies to independent transportation options, this in-person event offers attendees a chance to learn about different kinds of current and emerging technology options to support people with developmental disabilities who want more independence in their lives.

Monday, March 23rd

Regional Workshop: Advancing Accessibility in Central Ohio

12:30 – 4 p.m.

Columbus Zoo & Aquarium

This workshop includes the opportunity to learn from professionals in our region who are prioritizing accessibility in their organizations, including representatives from the Columbus Crew, Columbus Zoo & Aquarium, Delaware County District Library, and Metro Parks. Accessible Ohio Specialist Tanya K. Vela will offer tools and resources to help you prioritize your accessibility goals and establish a plan to achieve them.

Tuesday, March 31st

Game Changers: Fostering Inclusion & Accessibility at Ohio's Sports' Venues

12 p.m.

Webinar

Sports have the power to unite communities, inspire individuals, and break down barriers, but only when everyone has the opportunity to participate and enjoy the experience.

Join DCBDD as we host a conversation with representatives from the Cleveland Guardians and Columbus Blue Jackets to discuss practical strategies and innovative approaches to making our sports venues truly accessible and inclusive for all Ohioans.

We look forward to having you attend the event!