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Harford County proclaims Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, honors Pathfinders for Autism
Summary
The council read a proclamation recognizing March 2026 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and presented it to Shelly McLaughlin of Pathfinders for Autism, which the council noted provides statewide trainings, free family events and law-enforcement workshops.
Harford County’s council proclaimed March 2026 Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and presented the recognition to Shelly McLaughlin, identified during the meeting as program director for Pathfinders for Autism.
Councilwoman Robert introduced the proclamation and said Pathfinders was established by parents and has grown into "Maryland's largest autism organization" that educates the community and provides trainings for law enforcement on how to support autistic children and adults during community interactions. "Everything that we do for families is free of charge," McLaughlin said, describing Pathfinders’ workshops, trainings and family events, including recent aquarium and science-center nights and upcoming summer activities.
Council members applauded Pathfinders’ role in promoting inclusion, accessibility and self-determination and encouraged residents to recognize and support individuals with developmental disabilities. The proclamation calls on residents to celebrate the abilities and contributions of people with developmental disabilities and to support organizations that provide services and training.
