Decatur goes orange for developmental disability awareness
DECATUR (WCIA) — March is National Developmental Disability Awareness Month, and the City of Decatur is showing support by painting the town orange.
“We try every single day to try to show to the community the abilities of those we serve, said Amy Bliefnick, President and CEO of Macon Resources Incorporated.
MRI is a disability service and support organization, and it’s the group behind Paint the Town Orange. Businesses hang up orange paper chains in solidarity.
“Focus in on reality and focus in on what is encouraging,” said MRI self-advocate Carl Nave.
MRI’s festivities also include an abilities showcase where the people MRI serve show off and celebrate their talents.
“It has prepared me for being in the community and being able to identify my weaknesses,” Nave added.
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Nave said he’s been struggling with lifting himself up. He wants to be an advocate for others.
“I’m very glad to be right there to help a person if need be.”
Nave said that this month, he’s focused on growth. Showing off his dancing skills in front of a crowd on Friday was part of that.
Bliefnick said the showcase is about having fun. But it’s also about breaking down barriers.
“They deserve the same type of respect that you get, and we get,” she said. “And if you get to know them, you know that you just fall in love with them so much.”
MRI will be hosting their own March Madness basketball tournament to close out the month. It will take place next week from Wednesday through Friday.
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