As the new year begins, many of us are thinking about what it means to live with more purpose, connection, and care for others. One powerful place to focus is supporting people with developmental disabilities in everyday life.
Too often, people with developmental disabilities face barriers that limit their participation in the community, including housing insecurity, social isolation, employment challenges, and lack of access to meaningful activities. The start of the new year is a natural moment to ask: how can we help create communities where everyone is able to belong and thrive?
Practice everyday inclusion
Inclusion usually starts with small choices, not big programs. You can support people with developmental disabilities by:
- Saying hello and building genuine relationships in your neighborhood, workplace, or faith community
- Using respectful, person first language that honors each person’s identity and preferences
- Inviting participation in group activities, rather than assuming someone may not be interested or able
- Listening first and allowing people to share what matters to them
These everyday habits help move inclusion from a concept to something people feel in real time.
Support community spaces that welcome everyone
Community life is built in places like parks, libraries, faith communities, workplaces, and local shops. When these spaces are welcoming to people with developmental disabilities, they reduce isolation and strengthen the whole community.
You can look for and support organizations that are:
- Creating roles where people with developmental disabilities contribute in visible, meaningful ways
- Offer accessible events and activities
- Inviting feedback from people with developmental disabilities and their families
At AbleLight Thrift Shops, for example, people with and without developmental disabilities work and volunteer side by side. Customers see inclusion in action while team members build skills, friendships, and a sense of purpose. Whether through AbleLight or another organization in your area, choosing to spend time and energy in inclusive spaces helps them grow.
If you are interested in volunteering in this way, you can explore opportunities at AbleLight Thrift Shops here.
Keep learning and listening
Learning more about the experiences of people with developmental disabilities is one of the most meaningful ways to offer support. Many individuals and families carry significant responsibilities related to caregiving, advocacy, and long-term planning, all while navigating challenges like limited housing options and employment barriers.
You can:
- Read or watch first person stories from people with developmental disabilities
- Learn about local services and supports in your community
- Share accurate information when you hear myths of misunderstandings about disability
Listening to people with lived experiences can shape how you vote, volunteer, give, and show up in daily life.
Consider how you give
Financial support is another way to stand alongside people with developmental disabilities. Some people give to organizations that provide housing, employment, or community programs. Other choose to shop at social enterprises that create inclusive opportunities.
See how giving can support this work and explore ways to give to learn about options that align with your values.
Moving into the new year together
Building communities where people with developmental disabilities are loved, secure and flourishing takes ongoing effort from all of us. The good news is that change grows from many small choices.
Each step helps create a world where every person is seen, valued, and given the opportunity to live a full and connected life in the new year and beyond.