MEDIA RELEASE__March 1 is the start of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month! The Allen County Board of Developmental Disabilities will be celebrating all month long. The theme this year is "Committed to the Future," which highlights the Board's commitment to continue to provide high-quality services. Look for the billboards, connect on social media or find other ways to learn more about developmental disabilities during March.

Throughout the month, many visits are scheduled at elementary schools across Allen County to read a book focused on disability awareness to students in their classrooms. This year's book is "Just Ask" by Sonia Sotomayor.

On March 24, Early Intervention is hosting a Community Developmental Screening at 2550 Ada Rd. This screening is free and open to the public for children birth through age 5. The screening will include: growth & development, hearing, vision, speech, dental, behavior, autism, feeding, and gross and fine motor. The screening is from 4:00 p.m. -7:00 p.m., with registration closing at 6:00 p.m.

On March 12, Ohio State Lima will be hosting a bingo and disco night on campus for students and individuals in services from 6:00 p.m. - 8:00 p.m.

On March 18, Lima Senior is hosting a bingo and silent disco night at the high school for individuals with developmental disabilities. The event will be from 4:00 p.m. - 6:00 p.m.

On March 31, the Board's annual Partnership Luncheon will be held. This is a time to share the yearlong journey for the Board and people served, as well as honor people who made a significant impact on services during 2025. This event has limited attendance.

For more information or additional questions, contact Sierra Weltmer at 419-221-1385, ext. 2608 or [email protected]