Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is observed nationwide in March. The 2025 theme of the annual campaign led by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities and partners is “We’re Here All Year.”  

Pennsylvania Governor Josh Shapiro has issued a proclamation that recognizes the accomplishments and contributions of people with developmental disabilities, encourages community support, and highlights the commonwealth’s role in providing opportunities and person-centered approaches that support and value the everyday lives of Pennsylvanians with disabilities.  

Full Text of the Proclamation

Commonwealth of Pennsylvania

Proclamation by the Governor

WHEREAS, people with developmental disabilities come from diverse racial, ethnic, educational, social, religious, and economic backgrounds, and are valued members of society who strive to enjoy an everyday life; and

WHEREAS, people with developmental disabilities and their families are working for inclusion, equality, recognition and appreciation of their skills, views, abilities and contributions like all Pennsylvanians; and

WHEREAS, Pennsylvania continues its focus on person-centered approaches, community integration, personal choice, quality in service delivery, health and safety protections, competitive integrated employment, accountability in the utilization of resources, and innovation in service designs; and

WHEREAS, the rate of individuals with developmental disabilities enrolled for services engaging in competitive integrated employment has reached 18% in the Commonwealth through the increased provision of training, resources, services and supports that allow more individuals to pursue their desire for employment; and

WHEREAS, opportunities for training, education and skill-building for those with developmental disabilities continues to grow with the implementation of training programs and inclusive secondary education certificate programs at Pennsylvania institutions of higher learning; and

WHEREAS, the Department of Human Services continues to offer opportunities to individuals and family members through accessible training initiatives and services that allow them to increase their knowledge and participation in advocacy, supports and disability services; and

WHEREAS, Pennsylvania continues to build an inclusive Commonwealth where all can live and work as part of their community and continue to enjoy their everyday lives.

THEREFORE, I, Josh Shapiro, Governor of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania, do hereby proclaim March 2025, to be

DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES AWARENESS MONTH

in recognition of the many accomplishments and contributions made by those with developmental disabilities. I encourage all Pennsylvanians to support those with a developmental disability and their families in all aspects of community life.

GIVEN under my hand and the Seal of the Governor, at the City of Harrisburg, on this fourth day of February two thousand twenty-five, the year of the Commonwealth the two hundred forty-ninth.

Governor Josh Shapiro