March has been designated as Intellectual Disabilities Awareness Month in recognition of individuals with an intellectual disability and their families.

In making the designation, Gov. Tom Wolf stated, “Intellectual Disabilities Awareness Month is a time for all of us to recognize the strengths and potential of all people in Pennsylvania who live with an intellectual disability.” Working together we can foster more opportunities for individuals with an intellectual disability to thrive in our community, and our society will be richer as a result.”

At their meeting of March 8, the McKean County Commissioners proclaimed March as Intellectual disabilities Awareness Month in recognition of the many contributions and challenges of citizens in McKean County with intellectual disabilities and encouraged all citizens of McKean County to support the efforts and hard work of Pennsylvanians with an intellectual disability and their families as they strive to live self-directed lives and realize their own personal aspirations.

Here in McKean County there exists a strong provider support system to enable persons with intellectual disabilities and their families to access the services and supports that allow them to reach their potential, to live a life in the community that they choose and to access all that the community has to offer any of its citizens.

Beginning with the supports offered through the various county school districts and Intermediate Unit Nine and continuing into adult services provided by agencies such as Futures Rehabilitation Center, Evergreen Elm Inc., the Guidance Center, Beacon Light, the YWCA, CARE for Children and others, individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families have more opportunities to achieve fulfilling lives than ever.

We applaud all of these entities and their dedicated staff and volunteers for their tireless work in this field and we applaud all of those individuals with disabilities working toward achieving their dreams and aspirations for their life in our community. We are grateful for a supportive community and community leaders who do recognize the strengths and potential of individuals with intellectual disabilities.

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Leven is the president and chief executive officer of Futures Rehabilitation Center Inc. in Bradford.