Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month  ( DDAM ) is observed each March in the United States to draw attention to the experiences, rights, and contributions  of people with developmental disabilities and to promote inclusion and understanding across communities. The month encourages public education, advocacy, respect for individual rights, and opportunities for people of all abilities to participate fully in society. Understanding Developmental Disabilities Developmental

As Congress and federal agencies move forward with major policy and budget decisions in 2026, disability advocacy  organizations are raising serious concerns about how new legislation  could affect adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs), their families, and the systems that support them. Several proposed legislative and administrative actions  signal a shift away from long-standing federal commitments to disability rights, access to care, and community-

Valentine’s Day  is usually filled with cards, flowers, and dinner plans, but it’s also a perfect moment to widen the circle of love. Whether you’re single or celebrating with a partner, you can go beyond the usual traditions and lift up vulnerable populations in your community — including individuals with special needs, their families and caregivers, and the nonprofits that support them. A small gesture can make the holiday more meaningful for everyone. Strengthen Community

If you’re a nurse looking for a change of setting or opportunities to specialize in a specific area (for example, caring for individuals with special needs), seeking out nonprofit employment offers distinct advantages . Here are some key benefits of working for a nonprofit . Meaningful Impact and Specialization Nonprofit nursing jobs  often allow you to focus on meaningful, mission-driven care . These organizations prioritize patient welfare over profit, which enables staff t

If you’re a person who genuinely enjoys helping others, especially vulnerable populations, there are plenty of meaningful career paths  open to you. This article offers some strong options to consider — and explains why becoming a direct support professional (DSP)  may well offer the best of all worlds. Some Career Options for Natural Helpers For those drawn to careers  that involve helping people , there’s a wide variety of satisfying options: Nursing.   Nursing assistants a

Choosing a career in caregiving, especially one supporting special needs individuals, can be both deeply rewarding and professionally strategic. Pursuing caregiver training  offers a number of valuable benefits for empowering people with special needs — and your career. Improved Quality of Care Training helps prospective caregivers  gain key skills such as effective communication, safe handling, behaviour support, and emergency response. Trained caregivers deliver higher-qual

The holidays are meant to be joyful, but for families and caregivers of adults with special needs, they can also feel a little overwhelming . Between sensory-heavy traditions, packed schedules, and accessibility concerns, it isn’t always easy to make celebrations truly inclusive.  The good news is that with a little creativity and planning, you can create festive moments through holiday activities  that bring everyone together — whether it’s through hands-on crafts , sensory-

The International Day of Persons with Disabilities  (IDPD) , observed annually on Dec. 3, was established by the United Nations in 1992. Its purpose is to promote the rights, dignity, well-being, and full participation of persons with disabilities in all aspects of political, social, economic, and cultural life. How IDPD Relates to Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities People with intellectual or developmental disabilities  (IDDs) often face multiple, intersecting barri

The holiday season, with its added social engagements and expectations, can be an incredibly strained time for caregivers of special needs adults. The key to navigating caregiver stress  during this period is to be proactive in managing tension and prioritizing your well-being. By adopting a few simple strategies, you can reduce overwhelm  and find joy in the season. Plan and Set Realistic Expectations As we begin getting ready for the holidays , one of the biggest sources of

Giving Tuesday  is a global movement that takes place each year on the Tuesday after Thanksgiving, encouraging people to support causes  they care about. It's an opportunity to shift the focus from consumerism to considering ways to give back to your community , and every act of generosity, no matter how small, makes a difference. This year, as you consider where to direct your philanthropy, consider supporting nonprofit organizations that provide vital services to adults wit

Each October, National Disability Employment Awareness Month  (NDEAM)  highlights employer efforts and successes in integrating people...

Halloween should be a time of joy, creativity, and connection — but for adults with special needs, it can sometimes feel overwhelming or...

For college students aspiring to careers working with individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs) , it’s essential...

College life is a balancing act of academics, social engagements, and often, the need to earn money. It’s an open secret that one of the...

The next academic year is right around the corner, and navigating postsecondary education and vocational training  can be a...

As the United States celebrates Independence Day this July, another significant milestone in the nation's journey toward equality and...

Every July, Disability Pride Month  offers a powerful reminder that disabilities are not something to be ashamed of, but are a natural...

When summer temperatures climb in Michigan, staying cool isn’t just about comfort; it’s essential for health and safety, especially for...

Summer brings longer days and opportunities  for fun outdoor activities, but it also introduces specific risks for adults with...

Summer can be a season of joy , but for adults with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDDs), it often brings challenges related...