Hello, readers! Spring has arrived, and we are eager to share in this quarter’s newsletter the latest news on our work. We invite you to learn what’s been happening at the Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD), Kennedy Krieger Institute and the community.
April is Autism Acceptance Month, a time to reflect on the importance of understanding, acceptance and support for individuals with autism spectrum disorder. This month provides an opportunity to celebrate the autism community and raise awareness about the strengths and challenges that come with being autistic. As we continue to advocate for acceptance, we encourage everyone to explore resources that can help expand understanding and provide support. Some nationally recognized organizations include:
These resources offer valuable information, guidance and opportunities to get involved in advancing the well-being of people with autism.
The MCDD played a key role in the 2025 Developmental Disabilities Day at the Legislature alongside Kennedy Krieger Institute staff members and self-advocates. MCDD trainees and staff members of People On the Go Maryland (POG), and POG members participated in 13 legislative meetings, where they advocated for policies that support inclusion and accessibility for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Their efforts focused on several important education and school discipline bills and the Developmental Disabilities Administration budget. Following meetings with legislators, the MCDD, Maternal and Child Health Leadership Education in Neurodevelopmental and Other Related Disabilities (LEND) program, and the Center for Excellence in Public Health Leadership Training hosted a lunch-and-learn session at the Goldstein Treasury Building. Throughout the 90-day legislative session the MCDD, Project HEAL (Health, Education, Advocacy, and Law) and POG weighed in on 65 pieces of legislation.
This quarter’s newsletter features program updates from our Autism Research and Engagement Core and People On the Go Maryland, a roundup of relevant resources, and profiles of the MCDD’s new trainees. We hope you find the resources in this newsletter helpful as we continue to work together to help individuals with disabilities learn, grow and thrive.
Take care and stay safe.
In gratitude,
Maureen van Stone, Esq., MS
Assistant Vice President, Kennedy Krieger Institute
Director, Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities
Founding Director, Project HEAL (Health, Education, Advocacy, and Law)