Developmental disabilities are a group of conditions due to an impairment in physical, learning, language, or behavior areas. These conditions begin during the developmental period, may impact day-to-day functioning, and usually last throughout a person’s lifetime. About one in six children in the U.S. have one or more developmental disabilities or other developmental delays, according to the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities. Although most developmental disabilities begin before a baby is born, some can happen after birth because of injury, infection, or other factors.

Developmental disabilities occur among all racial, ethnic, and socioeconomic groups. Recent estimates in the United States show that about one in six, or about 17%, of children aged 3 through 17 years have one or more developmental disabilities.

Many individuals with developmental disabilities are participating in the social, economic, and civic life in Fairfax County and their contributions are invaluable to our community. The National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) encourages everyone to celebrate and showcase the excellent work that is being done around the country to improve the lives of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. NACDD encourages sharing how you are raising awareness and making a difference by using the hashtags #DDawareness2025, #DDAM2025, @AWorldofOpportunties, or #NewOpportunities on social media.

Chairman Jeff McKay read a proclamation on behalf of the Fairfax County Board of Supervisors announcing March as Developmental Disabilities Inclusion Month. 

The Arc of Northern Virginia shared a message of appreciation from Fairfax resident Heather Hefflin. She said Fairfax County offers services for people with disabilities and opportunities to help her and others with disabilities live a good life.

Find information at the Department of Family Services Disability Rights and Resources.

Subscribe to the DFS Access Fairfax e-newsletter: news for people with disabilities and for people who care for, or about, people with disabilities.

Visit the Fairfax-Falls Church Community Services Board for information about services to help people with developmental disabilities live, work and take part in our community.

Learn more from the Neighborhood and Community Services for information about therapeutic recreation services for children and adults with disabilities.

Visit The Arc of Northern Virginia, for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. 

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