Community Engagement as a Parent with IDD: Living, Working, and Playing in Your Community

March 13, 2025

Community Engagement as a Parent with IDD: Living, Working, and Playing in Your Community

Written by Lindsay Brillhart, Jamie Junior, Quiana Mayo, and Chelsea Tighe

March is Developmental Disabilities (DD) Awareness Month, a time to celebrate the contributions of people with developmental disabilities and promote inclusion in our communities. For parents with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), being connected to your community is vital for building support systems, finding resources, and creating a fulfilling life for you and your family. So, how can you connect, and where can you start? Let’s explore some ideas and share resources to help you engage in your community.

Living: Building Everyday Connections

Living in your community is more than just having a place to call home. It’s about building relationships with neighbors, participating in local events, and finding spaces where you feel welcome. Here are some tips:

• Get to know your neighbors: Start with a friendly hello or introduce yourself. Building relationships with neighbors can lead to lasting friendships and a stronger support system.
• Attend community events: Many towns and cities host free or low-cost events like farmers’ markets, library story times, and cultural festivals. These are great opportunities to meet new people.
• Volunteer: Giving your time to local organizations is a wonderful way to make connections while contributing to causes you care about.

Hear Their Stories

We asked the parent self-advocates who work with TASP to share their insights and experiences:

• Quiana Mayo, a self-advocate and mother of two, shared how she builds connections: “I built connections with my neighbors by being an advocate. If I have resources, I reach out to my neighbors, grassroots organizations, and nonprofits. My community is made up of people who live and look like me, and I strive to be their voice.”
• Lindsay, a mom of two, uses technology to connect: “I’ve used an app called Next Door. It has helped me connect with people in my neighborhood!”

Working: Finding Meaningful Employment and Opportunities

Work can be a key way to connect with your community. As a parent with IDD, finding work that fits your skills and interests can help you build confidence and relationships.

• Explore supported employment programs: Organizations like APSE (Association of People Supporting Employment First) and your state-wide Division of Rehabilitation Services can help you find job opportunities and workplace support.
• Connect with vocational rehabilitation services: These services provide training, job placement, and support to help you succeed in the workplace.
• Consider part-time or flexible work: If full-time work isn’t an option, part-time roles or volunteering can still provide valuable community connections.
• Advocate and engage: Work doesn’t need to be a 9-5 job. Advocacy on its own is meaningful work. Join groups like The Association for Successful Parenting (TASP) or local advocacy organizations to make an impact and connect with others who share your goals.
• Get involved in community leadership: Serving on committees or boards in your community is another way to contribute and build relationships.

Hear Their Stories

• Quiana shared how she contributes through advocacy: “Advocating is my work—networking and collaborating with others. My advice to other parents is: Don’t be ashamed. A closed mouth doesn’t get fed. Sometimes you have to step outside the box.”
• Jamie Junior, a mother and advocate, emphasized the importance of starting small: “For parents looking to get involved, start with what matters most to you and your family. Look for local meetings, join a community group, or start small by attending events and talking to others who share your concerns. You don’t need to have all the answers—just showing up and getting involved can lead to opportunities to make a real difference!”

Playing: Enjoying Recreation and Social Activities

Recreation is essential for well-being and provides opportunities for parents and families to bond and make friends.

• Join local parent groups: Many communities have parenting groups or playgroups that welcome parents of all abilities. Check your local community center or library.
• Participate in inclusive sports and activities: Programs like Special Olympics or adaptive recreation leagues offer fun, supportive environments.
• Visit parks and community spaces: Public parks, playgrounds, and trails are accessible spaces where families can enjoy time together and meet others. Many neighborhoods have adaptive playgrounds that are accessible for children with disabilities AND parents with disabilities.
• See a movie: 2024 was full of movies starring or highlighting individuals with disabilities, including Out of My Mind (Disney Plus), Wish (Disney Plus), Patricia (Hulu – Documentary), and Renegades (PBS Masters – YouTube).

Hear Their Stories

• Quiana enjoys community events: “I love attending church events, community block parties, grassroots events, and nonprofit gatherings. The library is also a great place for my family to relax and have fun.”
• Lindsay shared her family’s favorite spots: “We try to go to accessible playgrounds and other events for people with disabilities. Pause is a place that has helped us have some respite in our community.”
• Jamie finds joy in exploring her city: “I love finding ways to have fun in Detroit, whether it’s walking along the Riverwalk, checking out concerts at Hart Plaza, or catching a game at Comerica Park. Community events like the African World Festival and local street fairs are always great for meeting people and soaking up the city’s energy.”

Share Your Story

How do you connect in your community? What activities bring you joy or help you feel supported? Sharing your story can inspire others and show the world the value of inclusion and community engagement. This March, let’s celebrate the many ways parents with IDD live, work, and play—making our communities stronger and more inclusive for everyone.