LIMA, Ohio (WLIO) — The care and services provided to individuals with developmental disabilities have evolved over time, expanding to include a range of programs that address not only physical needs but also social inclusion.
Allen County Board of Developmental Disabilities Superintendent Renee Kohler spoke to Lima Rotarians about March being Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. She emphasized the importance of understanding the abilities of individuals with developmental disabilities and how care has progressed over the years.
“It’s gone from zero expectations—really sending people away to institutions, thinking that they would never be able to do the things that all of us can do—to evolving where people are now included in their communities,” Kohler said. “The reason we celebrate and recognize March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is because we want to promote understanding of people with disabilities, which leads to acceptance and, eventually, inclusion in their communities.”
Kohler noted that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to build public awareness and further inclusion efforts.
Kohler noted that while progress has been made, there is still work to be done to build public awareness and further inclusion efforts. The Allen County Board of Developmental Disabilities serves approximately 950 individuals of all ages on a continuous basis.
