Growing up with my brother Kevin, who has a developmental disability, I experienced firsthand his kindness and limitless love. He’s always had a sharp sense of humor, an infectious enthusiasm for his favorite hobbies (and the Mets), and a deep desire to make friends.
Yet I also noticed that many outside our family see only his disability, failing to recognize the richness of his personality and the ways he contributes to the lives of those around him. As he grew older, this misperception led to challenges like finding a job, forging friendships, and fully experiencing the opportunities that so many take for granted.
Kevin’s story isn’t unique. Millions of Americans have disabilities. They have the talent, drive, and heart to succeed, but they continue to face barriers rooted in outdated beliefs and stigmas.
Each of us has the power to do something about it — starting with recognizing and overcoming our preconceptions. That’s why Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in March is so important. It reminds us to focus on people’s abilities instead of their limitations.
The mission of Smile Farms
Inspired by Kevin, my family and I founded Smile Farms with a mission to create meaningful job opportunities in agriculture and hospitality for adults with developmental disabilities.
Our thinking wasn’t just focused on helping people earn a paycheck, though that’s important. As anyone with a job will say, work instills a sense of purpose, builds friendships, and provides a place to belong.
What started as an idea has grown into a nonprofit operating across 14 campuses in the New York metro area. Smile Farmers now grow vegetables, bottle specialty products like “Heat with Heart” hot sauce, and partner with local restaurants. Each job represents something bigger than output. It represents belonging.
More than awareness: action
Awareness months do their job when they prompt action. You can build on this month by supporting businesses that create opportunity for people with disabilities. You can also volunteer or become an advocate within your workplace or community.
If you lead a team, hiring with inclusion in mind starts with curiosity and a willingness to look past assumptions. Many organizations can help you identify roles, provide training, and build pathways that work for everyone.
Inclusion grows through everyday choices that widen the circle. When people have a place to contribute, they gain more than a paycheck; they gain belonging, dignity, and purpose. Our communities become stronger for it.
Jim McCann, the Long Island resident and founder of Jericho-based 1-800-Flowers.com, has been writing the Celebrations Pulse since March 2020. Enjoy what you’ve read? Subscribe to the free weekly edition at celebrations.com/pulse.
