What summer is complete without a trip to the Jersey Shore? Monmouth and Ocean County want to make sure no one is excluded from this quintessential NJ pastime, and have guides available to help you plan a great trip.
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month (DDAM), a time to recognize and celebrate the contributions of people with developmental disabilities to our communities. DDAM sheds light on how people with and without developmental disabilities can live, work, and play together, enriching our society with their diverse talents and perspectives.
A key focus during DDAM is addressing the barriers faced by people with developmental disabilities in areas such as housing, employment, and recreation. The Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Final Rule is a significant requirement aimed at identifying and eliminating these barriers.
The HCBS Final Rule requires person-centered planning as the foundation for providing supports and services someone needs to lead a life of choice. This approach ensures that each person has the autonomy to make choices regarding their living arrangements, daily activities, employment opportunities, and support networks all within the community of their preference.
As we observe Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, it is crucial to reflect on the importance of HCBS in fostering inclusive and vibrant communities. By promoting individual choice, HCBS contributes to the creation of communities and environments where everyone can thrive.
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Do you know the difference between awareness and acceptance? When it comes to all disabilities, acceptance is more difficult than awareness because it requires work on everyone’s part. Autism acceptance, not just awareness, is what allows people to be a full part of their community as they live, work and play. The Community Living Education Project is proud to champion the need for acceptance of all people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Read about Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. and how his work inspired the disability rights movement.