More than 100 students from Allen, Auglaize and Hardin counties came together this afternoon for “Voices for Prevention” Day.

“We have everybody that's somebody is here today,” said Charles Jackson, a ViaQuest administrator. “Many of them do not get this opportunity to dress up, to have a day that’s just for them. The glam, the glamour—it’s all about them. This is their special day. They’re kings, they’re queens, they’re celebrities. This is the one day we say we love you, we appreciate you, and we honor you.”

It was a fiesta at Kessler Estates as dozens celebrated Cinco de Mayo.

The event served as a reminder of the vital role community partnerships play in fostering inclusion and opportunity for individuals with developmental disabilities.

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.

March 1 is the start of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! We will be celebrating all month long. Our theme this year is "Step by Step: From Vision to Reality," which is a continuation of 2024's theme that focused on the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) Grant, accessibility and inclusion. 

The DECA students raised the money through the Joy Project basketball game, which featured face painting, sugar cookies, and various merchandise to ensure local athletes with disabilities can participate in the Special Olympics.

Participating adults and high school students listened to various presentations and engaged in different scenarios to help understand peer similarities and differences and how those things can unite to make the community a better place.

As the students learn more about great Black historical figures, like George Washington Carver, the enjoyed a variety of peanut butter products.