Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities

04/24/2026

The Arc of North Talladega County will hold its 50th Annual Sunshine Saturday on May 2, 2026.

This annual event supports the Arc’s mission to provide resources and advocacy for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

For more information about Sunshine Saturday, contact Janie Gable Curtis at [email protected] or (256) 362-8064.

04/14/2026

Registration is open for the 2026 National Federation of the Blind of Alabama Annual Convention.

Join us April 17-19 at the Embassy Suites Montgomery for a convention centered on the theme "Inspiring Independence, Strengthening Community."

Bringing together blind and low-vision Alabamians, family members, advocates, educators, and community partners from across the state. Expect speakers, workshops, exhibits, and resources, along with meaningful connections across the community.

Parking is free.

Register here: https://www.nfbal.org/2026-nfb-state-convention-registration

04/14/2026

The East Alabama Resource Fair will connect families of children with special health care needs to local resources, support services, and organizations serving East Alabama. This event is free and open to all.

Saturday, April 25, 2026
9 a.m. to noon
Opelika Sportsplex - 1001 Sportsplex Parkway, Opelika

Resources available include therapy and health care providers, early intervention and developmental services, literacy programs, family and caregiver support, parent support organizations, and giveaways.

04/10/2026

Vivian’s life changed during college after a serious injury that left her using a wheelchair.

After months of recovery, she returned to school, pushing her wheelchair several blocks to class every day. That determination shaped the rest of her life.

Vivian later became involved in disability advocacy and saw firsthand how policy and community action can improve accessibility and inclusion.

Today, she continues giving back, including helping young children learn how to read.

During Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, Vivian’s story shows the power of advocates speaking up for their rights and the rights of others.

Read Vivian’s full story and learn how advocacy creates real change across Alabama: https://www.acdd.org/acdd-advocate-stories-vivian/

04/09/2026

Registration is now OPEN for the 2026 AL-APSE Conference
Join us July 8–10 in Montgomery, Alabama, for the AL-APSE Greatest Hits 2026 Annual Conference.

This event is a great fit for those involved in supported employment, including providers, employers, self-advocates, family members, policymakers, and community partners.

Now open:

• Sponsorships for self-advocates & families
• Exhibitor & vendor opportunities
• Breakout session proposals
Join us for practical training, useful insights, and conversations that move the work forward.

Register, apply, and book a room at the discounted rate here:https://alapse.regfox.com/2026-al-apse-conference-registration

03/30/2026

Charlie and Andy’s journey reflects this year’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month theme: WE’RE HERE. THEN. NOW. ALWAYS.

Read Charlie’s full story and learn how advocacy creates real change across Alabama.

https://www.acdd.org/acdd-advocate-stories-charlie/

03/30/2026

ACDD is requesting public comments on its 2027–2031 Five-Year State Plan

The State Plan guides how ACDD works to address unmet needs for people with developmental disabilities and their families across Alabama. Public input is a key part of setting those priorities.

Comment period: March 30 – May 13

https://www.acdd.org/2027-2031-five-year-state-plan-public-comments-requested/

03/26/2026

"I just love helping people." - David

David is music director at his local church. He is also the acting director of People First, where his work focuses on removing barriers and building systems that support people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Read David's full story and learn how advocacy creates real change across Alabama.

https://www.acdd.org/acdd-advocate-stories-david/

03/12/2026

As part of DD Awareness Month, we’re celebrating our Alabama advocates 🎉

There was a great turnout for Advocacy Day on February 25. People with developmental disabilities, families, and supporters came together to share their voices and support positive change!

Take a look through the slideshow to see a few highlights from the day.

03/11/2026

Meet Cordairo, a dedicated advocate for disability rights. From speaking at the State Capitol about Medicaid expansion to helping advance a bill for timely wheelchair repairs, his work focuses on removing systemic barriers to access and community participation.

Cordairo’s journey reflects this year’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month theme, WE’RE HERE. THEN, NOW, ALWAYS.

Read Cordairo’s full story and learn how advocacy creates real change across Alabama here: https://www.acdd.org/acdd-advocate-stories-cordairo/

Cordairo: Speaking Up, So Others Can Move Forward Cordairo grew up in Monroeville, Alabama, in a close-knit community where everyone knew one another. His grandmother and great-grandmother raised him, while his mother worked to support the family. It was a close household, and that support system sh...

03/10/2026

Watch ACDD Executive Director, Darryle Powell, share a few thoughts on this year’s Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month theme, “We’re Here. Then. Now. Always.”

The theme is led by the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) and highlights the long history of disability advocacy and community leadership.

This month is Developmental Disabilities Month to break down barriers and recognize the contributions those with developmental disabilities make in our society.