Developmental Disability Awareness Month 2026

Independence Begins with Community

At Bello Machre, we know that independence is closely connected to community. Growth happens when people are supported, encouraged, and given meaningful opportunities to thrive. Whether someone is learning a new skill, starting a job, making everyday choices, or building relationships, those steps forward are strengthened by the care and commitment of the people around them.

Community Makes It Possible reflects what we see every day in our homes and programs. When families, staff, and supporters come together, individuals gain confidence, discover new possibilities, and continue building lives filled with purpose and connection.

How Community Creates Opportunity

At Bello Machre, we see every day how progress truly happens. A new job. A growing friendship. A skill practiced again and again until it finally clicks. It doesn’t happen overnight, and it doesn’t happen without support. It takes people who care. It takes patience. It takes community.

Community Makes It Possible is about the role each of us plays. It’s the encouragement that builds confidence, the opportunity that opens a door, and the steady support that helps someone keep moving forward. That’s how growth takes root and lasts.

This March, we invite you to be part of that impact. Your support helps ensure people with developmental disabilities continue to have the care and opportunities they need to live, grow, and thrive.

How You Can Get Involved in DDAM

Take the Pledge: Show your support by committing to create a more inclusive community. Pledge to advocate, educate, and engage with those around you to open doors for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Spread Awareness: Follow Bello Machre on Facebook, Instagram, and LinkedIn throughout March to hear inspiring stories, learn practical ways to promote independence, and share posts that encourage others to join the movement.
Support Bello Machre: Your contributions directly impact our ability to provide housing, employment services, and community-based supports that empower individuals and their families to lead fulfilling lives. Donate today to make a difference!
Celebrate Success Stories: Throughout the month, we’ll be spotlighting the incredible individuals we serve and their journeys toward independence. These stories remind us that every pathway is unique but equally worth celebrating.

Taking the Pledge – a commitment to fostering a community of support

We’re inviting everyone to take the Bello Machre Pledge — a commitment to strengthening the community that makes growth and opportunity possible for people with developmental disabilities.

Here’s how you can take the pledge:

Post the pledge text or record a video of yourself saying the pledge and share it on your social media.
Use the hashtag #DDAM2026 and tag us @BelloMachre on Facebook or Instagram so we can celebrate your commitment!

Your participation helps spread awareness and makes a tangible impact. Donations made in support of the pledge will directly help Bello Machre continue providing opportunities and lifelong care for individuals with developmental disabilities.

The 2026 DDAM Pledge:

I pledge to help build a community where everyone feels valued and included.

I believe that when we remove barriers and create access to opportunity, we create meaningful progress and communities where everyone can contribute.

I will treat others with dignity and respect, speak up for inclusion, and take action in my own community to expand access and opportunity for people with developmental disabilities.

What Community Means at Bello Machre

For more than 50 years, Bello Machre has remained committed to providing a lifetime of loving care and opportunity for people with developmental disabilities. From Residential Services and Ray of Hope to Employment Support and Community Development Services, everything we do is rooted in that promise.

And that promise is strengthened by community. Families, staff, partners, donors, and friends all play a role in creating the opportunities that make growth possible.

With your support, 2026 can be a year of continued hope, opportunity, and progress for the people we serve!