A Day in the Life: What it Means to Have a Developmental Disability

March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to shine a light on individuals with developmental disabilities and their accomplishments. At Ohio Valley Goodwill, this month is near and dear to our hearts. Every day, we work to provide essential support, break down barriers, and create opportunities for individuals with disabilities across Greater Cincinnati to thrive!

Let’s take a closer look at what it means to have a developmental disability and why it’s so important to show our support this month (and all year round!):

There’s More Than Meets the Eye

Developmental Disabilities are conditions that affect a child’s development. It’s important to remember that not all of these disabilities are visible. Examples of conditions can include Cerebral Palsy, Down Syndrome, Autism Spectrum Disorder, ADHD, Intellectual Disability (ID), or even a condition that affects learning abilities, like dyslexia.

Individuals living with developmental disabilities can lead active, full lives. They deserve to be a part of our communities, just like anyone else! We can all play a part in ensuring individuals with disabilities have access to the opportunities they want to pursue, such as education, employment, and recreational or social activities.

What’s Life Like for Individuals with Disabilities?

Individuals with developmental disabilities can face unique challenges in their daily lives. Consider some of the tasks you do every day, like getting yourself dressed, preparing meals, driving, working at your job, and enjoying hobbies. Depending on the individual, these activities are still completely possible but may require additional supports and accomodations.

Consider this: Living with any kind of disability means navigating a world that isn’t always designed for your needs. Putting yourself in the shoes of someone with a disability can be very enlightening, revealing how many “little” things we take for granted and areas that can be improved and made more accessible for everyone!

Goodwill’s Mission: Changing Lives Through the Power of Work

Ohio Valley Goodwill provides a range of services across Greater Cincinnati, including an award-winning life enrichment program as well as employment and training services for individuals with disabilities who want to work. The individuals we’re proud to serve are achieving greater personal independence, self-fulfillment, and community inclusion.

This life-changing mission is made possible through the generous support of people like you! Every time you shop in one of our retail stores or donate your gently-used items to Goodwill, you’re fueling these important programs and services.

Join us in making a difference today! Learn more about our mission and how you can lend your support.