“Just Like You” is the theme for Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month 2009
The Arc of Gaston County and other related organizations celebrate Developmental Disability Awareness Month in March, and invite you to consider the true meaning of this year’s theme, “Just Like You”.
Statewide, and across the nation, organizations devoted to serving individuals with developmental disabilities are planning special events in March to raise public awareness of the many abilities people have, regardless of disability. The “Just Like You” campaign encourages people to bring diversity to their communities by welcoming people with disabilities into local neighborhoods, workplaces, houses of worship, and schools.

“This is a time when our organization focuses on encouraging the public to better understand the individuals we serve,” said Sara Osborne, Executive Director for The Arc of Gaston County. “During Developmental Disability Awareness Month, we encourage people to learn more about the 6000+ people in the Gaston County community who have disabilities. For example, when you see a child who uses a wheelchair – see the child, not the disability. And when you see a man with a developmental disability working at your local supermarket, see the man, not his disability”, added Osborne.

*** The Arc of Gaston County is celebrating March as Developmental Disability Awareness Month with the 4th Annual Impact Expo on Saturday March 7th from 11-2 in center court of Westfield Eastridge Mall in Gastonia.  Area organizations will be displaying information about services and supports they offer to our population that address their individual needs and contribute to their many successes.  There will also be a variety of family entertainment including a fashion show featuring many of our special needs citizens, a DJ, a performance by Gaston County’s first ever special needs cheerleading team- The Super Novas, a karate demonstration, and an arts and crafts corner! 

                          So, bring the whole family! ***

During March, help us celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month by getting acquainted with someone who has a developmental disability. You’ll learn that everyone has something to offer and that they are “Just Like You” in so many ways.

The Arc of Gaston County works to ensure unlimited social, educational, health-related, and enriching opportunities for people of all ages with Mental Challenges and Developmental Disabilities through the support of family, friends, and our community.  The Arc of Gaston County is  a local non-profit chapter of the NC and the United States Arc, as well as a partner agency of the United Way of Gaston County.  

Please contact The Arc of Gaston County at 704.861.1036 or arcgaston@bellsouth.net for additional information or visit our website at www.gastoncountyarc.org.