Honoring the annual national observance, the Lake County commissioners have once again unanimously adopted a resolution proclaiming March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Lake County.
The recent measure aims to “highlight and empower the contributions of individuals with impairments in physical, learning, language or behavior areas,” officials stated, noting that “one in six children in the United States has one or more developmental disabilities or other developmental delays.”
March has been recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month since 1987, when President Ronald Reagan issued a public proclamation to increase “public awareness of the needs and the potential of Americans with developmental disabilities” and to provide “opportunities they need to lead productive lives and to achieve their full potential.”
According to the Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood, thousands of people with disabilities have been supported over the years by their families, friends, neighbors and co-workers.
Deepwood was established by the Ohio General Assembly in October 1967, two years after Lake County founded Broadmoor School and Sheltered Industries.
Addressing the board, Deepwood Superintendent Elfie Roman emphasized that participation in community activities enriches lives and is one of the most effective ways to show support.
“Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month intensifies our outreach to strengthen awareness and encourage inclusion in all aspects of our great Lake County community,” she said. “Although we have events, continuously, to celebrate the individuals we support, we really kick it up a notch during this month, and this year our theme, ‘Kindness Clicks in 2026,’ reflects the idea that kindness creates meaningful connections.
“Every positive action, whether offering support, sharing a resource, giving encouragement or providing an opportunity, helps build a community where all abilities are valued,” Roman added. “When kindness becomes a habit, inclusion becomes a reality….we ask our community to capture these clicks of kindness and share photos of the moment with us on social media using #KindnessClicks2026.”
Commissioner Morris Beverage III believes the designation represents an opportunity to celebrate the talents and strengths of individuals with developmental delays.
“Lake County is strongest when every resident feels supported and included to participate fully in community life,” he said.
Commissioner John Plecnik added, “By continuing to raise awareness and remove barriers, we ensure that every person has the chance to live, work and thrive here in Lake County, and we are proud to acknowledge the important role individuals with developmental disabilities play in our community.”
Commissioner Morgan McIntosh noted that awareness leads to understanding, which helps build stronger community bonds.
“By recognizing Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring (that) every individual in Lake County has the opportunity to participate, contribute and succeed.”
The Lake County Board of Developmental Disabilities/Deepwood is located at 8121 Deepwood Blvd. in Mentor.
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