Maryland Department of Disabilities

Great day at the Down Syndrome Network of Montgomery County Step Up Walk on Saturday! Assistant Secretary Kim McKay was proud to join MDH Secretary Seshamani and many county and state elected officials in supporting this important event.

Need accessible tools to support your job search? The Technology Assistance Program is here to help! MDTAP offers a variety of assistive technology devices for people of all abilities—completely free of charge.

Click the link to find a loan library near you to see available options
bit.ly/46QUAyH

Today, MDOD and the Developmental Disabilities Administration had the honor of recognizing 33 incredible Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) at this year's Awards Ceremony who above and beyond to provide vital services.

Thank you to all our DSPs — your commitment changes lives, every single day.

WHO'S YOUR DISABILITY CHAMPION?
As we close out Disability Pride Month, we want to celebrate the amazing individuals making a difference in the disability community. Tag someone who's doing incredible work—advocating, educating, creating, or supporting Drop their name and why you admire them below!

Maryland Works, in partnership with the Maryland Department of Disabilities, offers a monthly webinar series created just for former federal workers.
Next session is on August 13, 2025, from 4:00 – 5:00 p.m.
Don’t miss this great opportunity
Register Here:
events.mdworks.com/MonthlyWebin....

This weekend, our Director of Community Living Policy, Jennifer Eastman, enjoyed attending the Main Street Community Safety Day. The Ethan Saylor Alliance is proud to sponsor this event, which offered a fun and educational opportunity to connect with first responders and law enforcement officials.

Time to get outside and play! Inclusive playgrounds are designed so everyone can join the fun.
Here are a few playgrounds to checkout:
- Laura's Place Playground at Blandair - Columbia
- Old National Pike Park - playground at Field 7 - Frederick
- Henry S. Parker Athletic Complex - Wicomico

We would like to extend sincere condolences to our Director of Emergency Preparedness, Cecelia Warren on the passing of her guide dog and our friend, Yale. Yale never missed a day of work, even during the pandemic. After many years of faithful service, he retired in January 2025. He will be missed.

In May, we were constantly on the move, actively participating in and supporting various disability events and initiatives.
Thank you to all the organizations that strive to build a society where everyone can participate, contribute and thrive.

Autism Acceptance Month may have ended but the work continues. Take a look at the Strategic Plan for Autism Related Needs to see Maryland's roadmap for addressing the needs of the autistic community in our state.

Click the link below to view the full plan.
mdod.maryland.gov/.../MDOD_MDA....

We were excited to join in the community fun at Autism in the Park on Saturday. Statewide Autism Coordinator, Victoria Rodriguez-Roldan provided remarks and information about the Strategic Plan for Autism Related Needs.
To view the full plan, click the link below.
mdod.maryland.gov/.../MDOD_MDA....

Happy AT Awareness Day!! Today we celebrate the development and availability of innovative devices, equipment, software to improve the lives of people with disabilities. Visit the Maryland Technology Assistance Program website to find out about free or low-cost assistive technology.
www.mdtap.org

The Maryland Model Employer Act (MME) is a commitment to advancing employment for people with disabilities. Need more information? Click the link below to view the MME fact sheet to get answers to some of the most frequently asked questions.
mdod.maryland.gov/employment/P...

Today, Governor Wes Moore signed the Model Employer Act bill which establishes an Office of Disability Employment Advancement within the Department of Disabilities.
We are excited to begin the work of expanding employment opportunities for individuals with disabilities.

Ready, Set, Say Cheese!! 📸 Join the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council and the Department of Disabilities on April 16th for a photoshoot to showcase the Dunkirk District Park's accessible playground.
Register today using the link below:
linktr.ee/mdddcouncil

Happy Maryland Day to all fellow Marylanders!!

World Down Syndrome Day 2025💙

This is a day to celebrate the lives of individuals with Down syndrome, and spread the message that they are capable of living fulfilling, productive lives when given opportunities and support.
#worlddownsyndromeday #downsyndromeawareness #downsyndrome

Join the Maryland Technology Assistance Program’s upcoming Plain Language training on March 19th. In this session, you will learn the core principles and best practices to ensure your written content is easily understood by your target audience.
Sign up today.
us06web.zoom.us/webinar/regi...

March is recognized as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.
By celebrating the diversity and value that people with developmental disabilities bring to our communities, we can build a world where everyone has the opportunity to reach their full potential. #ddmonth

When the snow falls, some people shovel and some of people hit the slopes. Check out our very own Bong Delrosario, Director of Transportation Policy, enjoying a fun day of adaptive skiing.

Secretary Beatty was in Annapolis for Governor Moore's State of the State address.
The Governor discussed the state's economic outlook, highlighting areas of growth and opportunity as well as challenges that still need to be addressed and how we can work together to overcome them.

Secretary Beatty and MTAP Exec Director, Lori Berrong testified today on Senate Bill SB-0208 which establishes the Maryland Technology Assistance Program at MDOD.
The bill would expand the program's ability to increase access to assistive technology and services to people with disabilities.

The Maryland Department of Health is looking for Families of Children with Special Health Care Needs to participate in a hour long conversation on January 29th from 12-1pm.

Join in to share what's important to your community.

Registration Link:
institutephi-org.zoom.us/.../tZAlcOuv....