February 28, 2025
A Circle of Support: Celebrating Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month with AbilityPoint
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.
March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Established in 1987, this month serves as a nationwide call to action, urging communities to celebrate individuals with developmental disabilities and create opportunities for their success.
In Wichita, AbilityPoint has been at the forefront of this mission for over 70-years. Founded in 1953, AbilityPoint is a nonprofit dedicated to fostering inclusion and opportunity for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
Marilyn Belcher, who became the guardian of her grandson Caleb, shares how AbilityPoint has transformed their lives.
“For Caleb, this is his circle, his safe place,” Marilyn said. “AbilityPoint is a miracle. I don’t know where we’d be without them, really. It’s just been a real blessing.”
These heartfelt words reflect the mission of AbilityPoint, which serves as the largest targeted case management provider in Kansas. Through advocacy, guidance, and community-building, the organization has empowered thousands of individuals and families.
The Purpose of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month shines a light on the challenges and triumphs of individuals with developmental disabilities such as Autism, Down Syndrome, and Cerebral Palsy. It’s a time to promote accessibility, educate the public, and foster a more inclusive society.
AbilityPoint: A Lifeline in Wichita
As a cornerstone of the Wichita community, AbilityPoint offers a range of programs that enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities, including:
- Youth Programs: Initiatives like Youth Education and Summer Socialization (YESS) and Discovery Days provide essential enrichment and respite care for working families.
- Adult Support: Year-round social, recreational, and self-advocacy programs create meaningful opportunities for personal growth and community connection.
- Impact: With over 250 annual activities, AbilityPoint serves more than 2,000 individuals across south-central Kansas.
How You Can Get Involved
As we celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, there are many ways to support AbilityPoint’s mission:
- Spread Awareness – Invite AbilityPoint to speak at your business, civic group, or church.
- Volunteer – Contribute your time and talents to AbilityPoint’s programs and events.
- Promote Inclusion – Make a conscious effort to include individuals with developmental disabilities in your workplace and social circles.
- Support the Mission – Attend EDGE on March 13, a night of inspiration, activities, and opportunities to directly support AbilityPoint’s programs. Financial contributions are also welcome to sustain life-changing services.
A Vision for a Brighter Future
Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is a reminder that an inclusive community values and uplifts every individual. Organizations like AbilityPoint and events like EDGE help turn this vision into reality.
As we move through March, let’s come together as a community to empower dreams, generate energy, and build a more inclusive Wichita. Together, we can create a future where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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