March 1, 2023 - On March 1, 2023, the Allen County Board of Commissioners and Fort Wayne Mayor Tom Henry renewed their annual commitment to proclaim March as Disability Awareness Month.
“I’m encouraged that Fort Wayne and Allen County are committed to providing meaningful opportunities for individuals with disabilities. We still have work to do, but I’m confident that local government and the general public will continue to recognize the important contributions that are made each day by our disability community. Our friends are making a positive difference in leadership positions on boards and commissions, and at work, school, and home.” said Mayor Henry.
This is the 36th year that the United States has recognized March as National Disability Awareness Month. The month was designated to encourage the understanding of and the opportunities for people with disability. “It is important that each year we honor this month, at the local level,” shared Allen County Commissioner Nelson Peters, “to help increase public awareness of disability as a challenge that many people in Allen County deal with on a daily basis, but that they help create a strong and diverse community where all people have an opportunity to participate.”
The Mayor and Commissioners applauded the work of the Fort Wayne-Allen County Disability Advisory Council, a local community panel established to recommend appropriately inclusive policies procedures, and programs that enhance the quality of life for individuals with disabilities in our community.