Mayor Jenks proclaims Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

In an effort to celebrate and recognize people with developmental disabilities, Rolla Mayor Bill Jenks, III proclaimed the month of March 2013 “National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month” during a proclamation signing ceremony at Rolla City Hall.

(Pictured with Mayor Jenks is Michaila Combs, Advocacy Specialist, Individual and Family Support Team Member.)  
  
Twenty-five years ago, spurred by advocates across the nation, then-President Ronald Reagan declared March to be Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month urging "all Americans to join me in according to our fellow citizens with such disabilities both encouragement and the opportunities they need to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential." 

In observance of DD Awareness Month, everyone is encouraged to celebrate the strengths and achievements of Americans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).  After decades of progress, today people with I/DD are living and working in the community, pursuing higher education, growing their faith and making their voices heard.
(Scott Grahl, City of Rolla photo)