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Bernards Township proclaims March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month
Summary
Bernards Township Committee unanimously adopted a resolution recognizing March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month and praised the work of Bernards Parents for Exceptional Children (PEC); Lindsey of PEC thanked the committee and described rising youth anxiety and support services.
Bernards Township Mayor Duarte McCarthy and the township committee unanimously adopted Resolution No. 2026‑O193 to recognize March as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Bernards Township.
The resolution highlights an estimated 2 percent prevalence of intellectual or developmental disabilities nationally, cites local service organizations and decades of volunteer work, and encourages residents to promote inclusion and accessibility. Committee members took turns praising Bernards Parents for Exceptional Children (PEC) for long‑running services to families and for advising the local board of education on special‑education matters.
"When we speak about inclusion, we can't just be speaking about making room," Committee member Madeline Hodges said. "It must be about reshaping the room itself so that people with developmental disabilities aren't guests in their own communities, but expected, valued, and central to everything that we do."
Committeewoman Jen Acy noted PEC's role in organizing community events and fundraising for group homes for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Lindsey, who represented Bernards PEC at the meeting, said the recognition felt validating for volunteers and families. "We show up for each other," she said, describing PEC's 40‑year history, adaptive recreation programs, and parent support work. She also warned of recent rises in anxiety and ADHD among youth and parents' ongoing struggles to find specialists.
The committee motion to adopt the resolution was made and seconded, and the body voted in favor by voice vote. The mayor invited PEC leaders and past presidents forward for photos following the reading.
The resolution asks residents to join the observance by promoting awareness, inclusion and respect for individuals with developmental disabilities. The committee did not take additional action on the item beyond adoption and public recognition.
