By Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services
LINCOLN, Neb. – The Nebraska Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) invites all Nebraskans to celebrate Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month, a time dedicated to spotlighting the achievements made by and for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
During March, DHHS highlights the importance of giving all individuals meaningful opportunities to learn, contribute and participate in employment, recreation and civic engagement in their communities. Every member of a community is valuable and deserves to be empowered to lead an independent life as defined by the individual.
DHHS also celebrates achievements made towards improving access to resources for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families. In June 2025, DHHS announced the elimination of the Developmental Disabilities Waitlist, a historic initiative to end a decades-long practice that delayed access to services. Now, eligible children and adults with disabilities and their families are offered and delivered services at the time of need instead of waiting years. During the 15-month process to eliminate the DD Waitlist, more than 3,000 individuals were removed from the waitlist and entered into services. In State Fiscal Year 25, DDD served over 6,000 Nebraskans across all Medicaid Home and Community-Based Services Waivers.
“I encourage all Nebraskans to celebrate the unique talents, achievements, and contributions of individuals with IDD. This month is a time to recognize the value this population brings to communities and to honor the creativity, resilience, and spirit that enrich our lives. Together, we can create welcoming environments where all are empowered to live meaningful lives — not just during March, but throughout the year,” said Tony Green, Director of DDD.
Celebrate Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month:
Wear Orange. Orange, the official color of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, symbolizes energy and positivity. Encourage your friends, families, neighbors, classmates, and coworkers to wear orange to show your support and spread awareness.
Share images, videos, and stories. Showcase artwork created by individuals with IDD, engage with employers who provide opportunities for individuals with IDD, promote community resources, or share the accomplishments of a self-advocate. Social media is a great way to connect with community members and raise awareness about IDD. Use #DDAwareness or #WeReHere to amplify the voices of individuals with IDD and build awareness.
Seek volunteer opportunities at local organizations in your community. Volunteer opportunities are one of the best ways to show support and help build awareness. Many local organizations have different volunteer opportunities available.
Submit an award nomination. DHHS is seeking nominations for the 2026 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month Awards. Nominate an outstanding individual, provider, community leader, or employer for one of the four annual awards by submitting a DD Awareness Month Award Nomination Form by March 6, 2026.