To The Community

The times: they are a changing...
These are exciting - and scary - times for the people of the Fort Wayne State Developmental Center. Times that are changing for both those with developmental disabilities and for those who work at the Center.

For our residents
Those people with developmental disabilities, the majority of whom have lived their lives at the Center, have learned that they'll be moving into the community as the Fort Wayne State Developmental Center closes. Some are excited about the transition and the chance to live and work and play in their own neighborhoods and towns and cities. And some are a bit fearful of this tremendous change in their lives...

For our employees
And those people who work at the Center are facing their own transitions as their jobs are downsized and as they see the individuals that they've dedicated their careers to caring for now go off on a new adventure.

And for the community...
You'll be seeing new faces in your neighborhood and where you shop and work. Faces that belong to people who may have Down's Syndrome or cerebral palsy or autism or other developmental disabilities. People who may act a little differently or walk a little differently or learn a little differently. And you may at first focus on their differences. Your children may say, "Mommy, why is he in a wheelchair?" or "Daddy, why does she talk funny?" And that's OK that they ask. Because the more we know about the conditions that cause developmental disabilities, the more we can focus on the person - and not the disability. And realize that these individuals with developmental disabilities are people first. Sisters, brothers, cousins, friends, workers, dancers, dreamers, students, employees, sons, daughters and more. People who make good neighbors - and good friends. Don't hesitate to make their acquaintance!

Focusing on what we have in common
People with disabilities represent the largest minority group in our nation. It's a group that includes all genders, races, religions, ages and economic levels. It's the only minority group anyone can join in the split second of an accident or onset of a medical condition. It's a group that many of us could join in the future. And when we do become a member of the disability community, will we have more in common with others with disabilities or will we continue to have more in common with our friends, family and neighbors?