For the past 39 years, communities nationwide have stepped up their inclusive events, activities, and messages during March in celebration of Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

Much progress has been made since that first observance in 1987. Franklin County DD encourages everyone—civic leaders, elected officials, employers, educators and others—to consider ways we can continue to build a community that is welcoming and accessible to all.

Following are some of the free, public events taking place in Franklin County during DD Awareness month:

Sunday, March 1: Community Day and Resource Fair (Autism and the Arts theme) at the Franklin Park Conservatory, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Admission is free with Columbus or Franklin County ID.

Tuesday, March 3 and March 10: Franklin County DD and Starfire Council are hosting free, online gatherings on becoming an Inclusion Seeker in your neighborhood, workplace, school and more. Sessions start at 11:30 a.m.; register here

Wednesday, March 4: DD Awareness and Advocacy Day at the Ohio Statehouse, starting at 9 a.m. In-person registration is full; click here for details and streaming information.

Saturday, March 7: Franklin County Connections Disability Resource Fair, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at Blacklick Woods Metro Parks Golf Course, 7309 E. Livingston Ave. Read more here or email mlrichley@metroparks.net for additional information.

Thursday, March 12: Franklin County DD Day at the Columbus Museum of Art, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Admission is free for all members of the Franklin County DD community. For questions, call Franklin County DD at 614-342-5161.

Thursday, March 19: Franklin County DD Self-Advocate Advisory Council meeting, 10 a.m. to 12 noon at the Franklin County DD administration building, 2879 Johnstown Rd. Email ryan.phillips@fcbdd.org or call 614-342-5984 for details.