Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month

The Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board (CSB), The Arc of Northern Virginia, and Fairfax County’s Board of Supervisors joined with students, teachers, parents and community members on February 28 at the Fairfax County Government Centerto recognize March as Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month in Fairfax County.

A reception celebrating people of all abilities took place prior to the Board of Supervisors meeting. Music was provided by Jake Heizer, 15, a Lake Braddock student. Food was provided by Wildflour Caterers, a Chantilly based not-for-profit business that employs people with disabilities to help them achieve independence and integration in the workplace and community.

During the proclamation ceremony, Elizabeth Clark, 21, who attends Fairfax County Public Schools’ Davis Career Center, addressed the Board of Supervisors and shared a personal presentation celebrating “who we are.”

The CSB, The Arc of Northern Virginia and numerous community partners work year-round to increase opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and raise awareness about issues they face. Visit our websites to learn more and get involved.

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The Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month proclamation reads:

WHEREAS, individuals with developmental disabilities are valued members of our community; and

WHEREAS, intervention, education and home- and community-based services are vital to enable people with developmental disabilities to achieve a self-determined and valued lifestyle; and

WHEREAS, with appropriate supports, all people can be productive and contribute to their communities and to the well-being of others; and

WHEREAS, families, organizations and advocates in our community are committed to supporting and empowering people with developmental disabilities to live “A Life Like Yours;” NOW THEREFORE

BE IT RESOLVED, that the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors, on behalf of all residents of Fairfax County, does hereby proclaim March 2017 as Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month in Fairfax County, and urges all residents to recognize the tremendous value and potential of people with developmental disabilities and include them in all aspects of community life.