MANSFIELD, Ohio – Richland Newhope is celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March and asks everyone to focus on peoples’ abilities and similarities rather than their differences.
Statewide, and across the nation, organizations devoted to serving individuals with developmental disabilities are holding special events in March to raise public awareness of the many abilities people have, regardless of disability. This year’s theme, Can Do! Like You, encourages everyone to see someone’s potential and abilities at school, in the workplace, and in everyday life.
“It’s important to recognize that each of us has something to offer to make our communities a better place to live,” said Richland Newhope Director of Community Relations Jane Imbody. “Richland Newhope supports and encourages community-based opportunities for employment, housing, and recreation that more fully integrate people with disabilities in Richland County.”
Richland Newhope kicked off its recognition of March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month during the Feb. 26 regular meeting of the Richland County commissioners.
Among those speaking during the kickoff was Abbie Bays, Richland Newhope transition specialist, and Dave Moore, transition coordinator for the Mansfield City Schools. Several individuals who receive Newhope services also attended the kickoff. A proclamation presented by the commissioners is one of ten to be issued by local communities through the month.
Other activities planned for March include:
- 22nd Annual Richland County Third Grade Coloring Contest Awards Luncheon on March 6 at Richland Newhope’s Early Childhood Center
- 5th Annual “Bringing the Elements Together Art & Talent Show” at the Richland Mall on March 13
- 14th Annual Community Awareness Day on March 19 at Richland Newhope Industries, Inc. (RNI) and several other locations around Mansfield
- Special notices: displays at the main branch of the Mansfield-Richland County Public Library and the Richland Mall; a message on the electronic sign at the Mansfield Area Y; five billboards; and the distribution of more than 4,700 pamphlets to 59 Richland County churches.
“While we have a number of activities planned during March, Richland Newhope’s awareness efforts are year-round and have frequently received statewide recognition,” Imbody added.
In 2014, Richland Newhope (Richland County Board of Developmental Disabilities) supported more than 1,800 individuals through early intervention, preschool, adult, residential, therapy, transportation and other family support programs.
