Learn Why Awareness is Important and How You Can Show Support
At Aviance Capital Partners, we are passionate about helping individuals and families with special needs, including those who have developmental disabilities, through personalized financial planning.
Founded in 1987 by Ronald Regan, National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month is an opportunity to highlight the community and advocate for acceptance and inclusivity. In honor of D.D.A.M., read on to learn more about what developmental disabilities are and why awareness is so important.
DDAM: What Is a Developmental Disability?
At its core, a developmental disability is a chronic condition, or group of conditions, that begins in childhood and affects an individual’s ability to learn, communicate, and perform everyday activities. These disabilities can take many different forms, from intellectual disabilities to autism spectrum disorders to cerebral palsy and beyond. The CDC estimates that approximately 17% of children between the ages of 3 and 17 are currently living with a developmental disability.
For individuals with developmental disabilities, daily life can present many challenges, including difficulties with communication and social interaction, physical limitations, and cognitive impairments. These challenges can lead to frustration, anxiety, and a sense of isolation, which can ultimately impact their mental health and overall well-being.
Why Is Awareness Important?
Unfortunately, many people do not fully understand these disabilities, which can lead to stereotypes, stigma, and exclusion. That’s why awareness is so important. Together, we can work to create a more inclusive society.
Though developmental disabilities can present significant challenges, it’s also important to remember that people with these disabilities also have strengths, talents, and unique perspectives to offer. By raising awareness and promoting inclusion, we can build a more just and equitable society that values diversity and celebrates the contributions of all individuals.
How to Show Support
One way to promote developmental disability awareness is by supporting advocacy organizations and participating in events that raise awareness and promote inclusion. These can include walks and runs, charity events, and social media campaigns that share stories and promote understanding.
Here are a few organizations advocating for those with developmental disabilities in Florida:
Another way to promote awareness is by educating ourselves and others about developmental disabilities. This can involve learning about the different types of disabilities and their symptoms, as well as the challenges and opportunities that come with them. It can also involve learning about best practices for communication, education, and inclusion, and advocating for policies and practices that promote these goals.
To learn more about how you can get involved, check out this guide published by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities.
Whether you are a family member, a caregiver, a teacher, or a concerned citizen, there are many ways to get involved and make a positive difference. So, let’s work together to raise awareness and create a brighter future for all!
To learn more about our Special Needs Financial Planning services, check out our events page to sign up for a free educational workshop.
Aviance Capital Partners, LLC (“ACP”) is an SEC registered investment adviser located in Naples, Florida. Registration as an investment adviser is not an endorsement by securities regulators and does not imply that ACP has attained a certain level of skill, training, or ability. ACP is not affiliated with any of the organizations mentioned in this publication. While information presented is believed to be factual and up-to-date, ACP does not guarantee its accuracy and it should not be regarded as a complete analysis of the subjects discussed. All expressions of opinion reflect the judgment of ACP as of the date of publication and are subject to change. Not all services will be appropriate or necessary for all clients, and the potential value and benefit of the ACP’s services will vary based upon the client’s individual investment, financial, and tax circumstances. The effectiveness and potential success of a tax strategy, investment strategy, or financial plan depends on a variety of factors, including but not limited to the manner and timing of implementation, coordination with the client and the client’s other engaged professionals, and market conditions. This should not be construed as specific investment, financial planning or tax advice tailored to an individual reader. ACP suggests that readers consult a financial professional, attorney or tax advisory professional about their specific financial, legal or tax situation. Past performance does not guarantee future results. All investment strategies have the potential for profit or loss, and different investments and types of investments involve varying degrees of risk. There can be no assurance that the future performance of any specific investment or investment strategy, including those undertaken or recommended by ACP, will be profitable or equal any historical performance level. Additional information about ACP, including its Form ADV Part 2A describing its services, fees, and applicable conflicts of interest and its Form CRS is available upon request and at https://adviserinfo.sec.gov/firm/summary/146597.
For current ACP clients, please advise us promptly in writing, if there are ever any changes in your financial situation or investment objectives, if you wish to impose any reasonable restrictions to our management of your account, or if you have not been receiving at least quarterly account statements from your account custodian.
