Celebrate #DDAwareness2020 . . . DDS Hosts Budget Forum . . . Coronavirus Preparedness

March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Established in 1987 by Presidential Proclamation, Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month raises awareness and fosters the inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all areas of community life. More than 6 million Americans and nearly 10,000 residents of the District of Columbia with developmental disabilities live, work, play, and contribute to our cities and nation alongside neighbors with and without disabilities.

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DDS will host its DD Awareness Celebration  Monday, March 30   4 - 6 pm @ 250 E St., SW Join us for refreshments, special guests, and a dance party with a DJ!

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DDS Budget Stakeholder Engagement Forum People supported by DDS, their family members, advocates, providers, and other stakeholders have an opportunity to talk with DDS Leadership about the proposed FY 2021 Budget. The meeting takes place Tuesday, March 31, 11 am - 12:30 pm at 250 E St., SW.  To RSVP or to request reasonable accommodations, including language access, please contact Charlisa Payne, Executive Assistant: charlisa.payne@dc.gov or (202) 442-8411 by March 23.  Ms. Payne can also assist people who wish to participate by WebEx or conference call.  See the attached fliers for more information.

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#DDAwareness2020 Social Media Campaign Eileen Schofield and Jamila Rahini Each March, the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) partners with the Association for University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD) and the National Disabilities Rights Network (NDRN) to conduct a social media campaign to highlight the positive impact people with disabilities make in our communities. The organizations selected the work of artists supported by Art Enables as logo imagery for DD Awareness Month 2020.  The image above was designed by Eileen Schofield. The work of Jamila Rahini will also be highlighted throughout the campaign.

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DD Awareness Events

DDS is partnering with disability service and advocacy groups across the District to celebrate the abilities, interests, and talents of people with disabilities.  Here's a listing of upcoming events.

March 11: Better Together Reception Ι 4:30 pm - 7 pm
Modena Ι 1100 New York Ave., NW
Hosted by Quality Trust for Individuals with Disabilities, this annual event acknowledges the promise and potential that opportunities for inclusion and contribution can produce for people with disabilities. Tickets are $45 and can be purchase online or at Quality Trust, 4301 Connecticut Avenue, NW, Suite 310 office.  Call (202) 448-1450 for more information.

March 12: Family Support Council Public Meeting Ι 12:30 pm - 2:30 pm @ 250 E St., SW 
The Family Support Council advises and provides recommendations to DDS and other agencies on developing person- and family-centered systems of support for families throughout the lifespan of their family members with intellectual and developmental disabilities. DDS will provide accommodations needed for meaningful participation. Email Emily.Ornstein@dc.gov or call 202-730-1687 if you would like to participate via conference call.

March 13: Supporting Families CoP Ι 9:30 am - 3:30 pm @ 250 E St., SW This group of diverse stakeholders works to create policies, practices, and systems that support families that have a member with an intellectual or developmental disability across the life span. This month features a panel of local families discussing the contributions, challenges, and joys of the disability community. RSVP to Emily.Ornstein@dc.gov or call 202-730-1687.

March 18: Employment and Financial Education Event Ι 1 pm - 3 pm @ 250 E Street SW This event will feature resume writing, financial education, employment counseling, and a photo shoot. Attendees will walk away with something they can use in their job search.

For more information or to request reasonable accommodations, please contact Alison Whyte at alison.whyte@dc.gov or call 202-340-8563.

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Coronavirus Update
Prevention is the District's Priority
As of March 3, there are no confirmed cases of coronavirus (COVID-19) in the District of Columbia. With any public health concern, we need to be prepared and informed about possible impacts coronavirus may have in our community. Prevention is the priority of the Bowser Administration. See the attached Prevent the Spread of Germs tip sheet to keep you and your family safe and healthy.  For more information, visit  coronavirus.dc.gov.

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• DDS FY21 Budget Forum Flyer final.pdf
• PreventtheSpreadofGerms--COVID-19.pdf