DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH 2026
Montgomery, Ala. – March marks Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, a time to honor and uplift people with developmental disabilities across Alabama. This year’s theme, WE’RE HERE. THEN. NOW. ALWAYS., reflects a simple truth: people with developmental disabilities have always been part of our communities, are active contributors, and will continue shaping Alabama’s future for generations to come.
Across the state, more than 120,000 Alabamians with developmental disabilities are building lives filled with purpose—sharing time with loved ones, learning in classrooms, contributing in the workplace, and participating in community life. Their talents, perspectives, and experiences strengthen families, neighborhoods, and local economies.
“Every day, our teams focus on providing meaningful supports that help people build the lives they choose,” said ADMH Commissioner Kimberly Boswell. “Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month offers more opportunities to recognize their contributions and celebrate the value each person brings to their family, community, and our state.”
The Alabama Department of Mental Health (ADMH), through its Division of Developmental Disabilities, partners with local providers to offer services designed around each person’s goals, preferences, and strengths. These supports are intended to help individuals make choices about their own lives, increase independence, and move toward what matters most to them.
The Division of Developmental Disabilities is dedicated to continued enhancement of innovative models of services and supports, including remote supports and assistive technology, to promote autonomy and expand choice for individuals in the community.
Working alongside organizations such as the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities (ACDD), ADMH promotes access to services, skill development, and full participation in everyday life. Through collaboration and shared commitment, these partnerships expand opportunities for people to pursue personal, educational, and career aspirations.
From early childhood supports to services that assist adults in finding meaningful work and community involvement, ADMH assists individuals to shape futures that reflect their ambitions and abilities.
The ADMH facilities three waivers: the Intellectual Disabilities (ID) Waiver, the Living at Home (LAH) Waiver, and the Community Waiver Program (CWP) which provide resources including support coordination, personal care, assistive technology, remote supports, employment assistance, housing assistance, and other community-based options tailored to each person’s unique needs.
Together with community partners, ADMH continues to broaden access to services that promote safety, autonomy, and dignity—ensuring that people with developmental disabilities have the tools and opportunities to thrive.
To learn more, visit https://mh.alabama.gov/division-of-developmental-disabilities/.