MANTUA, OH – Since 1961, Hattie Larlham's mission has focused on potential, on hope, and on building brighter futures for people with disabilities. Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is observed nationally every March and is dedicated to advocating for more inclusive communities and shining the spotlight on the lived experiences of people with developmental disabilities.

At Hattie Larlham, we recognize that our lasting legacy within our communities is due in large part to the dedication and support of our donors, volunteers, team members, and friends. We believe our impact is truly a combined effort, so Hattie Larlham celebrates DD Month with the theme, #BrighterTogether.

Throughout the month of March, we’ll shine a spotlight on new opportunities to engage with our mission. Together, we can bring increased awareness to our communities about the importance of empowering all abilities.

Ways to Support

Wednesday, March 1st | Celebrating Stephanie Banks: Stephanie is receiving national attention for the exceptional care and opportunities she provides for people with disabilities. “My mother was my inspiration to become a nurse and caregiver,” says Banks, Licensed Practical Nurse, Hattie Larlham ICF Group Homes. "She was a full-time caregiver for my brother with muscular dystrophy and eventually began working at Hattie Larlham. I knew I wanted to be the positive part in the daily lives of others in need after visiting my mom and residents many times. Throughout my career, every resident and participant I have had the amazing pleasure of providing care for has impacted my life and provided me my brightest and favorite memories. I am truly thankful for all of them.”

Stephanie has been with Hattie Larlham for over 19 years. “Her selflessness, compassion and commitment to every resident's well-being embody Hattie Larlham’s mission,” says Okey Ekechi, Hattie Larlham Program Director, ICF Group Homes. “Stephanie’s heart and desire to help people with disabilities thrive is the perfect example of what DD Month is all about. We can’t think of a better way to kick off this bright month by celebrating Stephanie and who she is.”

The presentation of the Annual CECA Award to Stephanie Banks will take place at the Hattie Larlham Center for Children with Disabilities on Wednesday, March 1st from 11:00 – 12:30PM.

Friday, March 24 |Wear Yellow Day: Join us in increasing awareness for DD Month and wear your best and brightest yellow. Show off your photos of empowerment and inclusion for Wear Yellow Day with the hashtag #BrighterTogether and tag Hattie Larlham on all social channels.

Visit Our Website: Visit hattielarlham.org/DDmonth where you can download our DD Month 2023 Toolkit to learn more and share with others about ways to engage with us this March. You can also show your support year-round with a special empower all abilities window cling available for purchase.

Stay Engaged: All month long, we'll be celebrating the moments that make us Brighter Together. We want our social media feeds to be as bright as they can be in celebration of DD Month, so be sure to share your own stories, photos, and testimonials and subscribe to our email updates and follow us on social media so you don't miss any of the feel-good stories of achievement and joy.

Donate: A special DD month donation to Hattie Larlham ensures that we can continue the critical work we do to provide comfort, joy and achievement to people with disabilities. A great opportunity to double your gift is during our #FiveDollarFriday on Friday, March 31 thanks to a generous matching donation from our Boards of Directors.