Developmental Disability Day in Maryland
Thursday was Developmental Disabilities Day in the state of Maryland.
A record number of advocates joined Governor Larry Hogan in Annapolis to demand more funding for services.
About 725 people turned out for the event.
The focus was on Governor Hogan's budget, and how it would accommodate funding for services provided by the Developmental Disabilities Coalition.
The coalition provides assistance to students with disabilities who graduate and want to head out into the work force.
47 ABC spoke with Rick Callahan of Arc in the state's Central Chesapeake Region.
He said the record turnout proves how important these services are.
He added that many of the people in attendance were self-advocates.
“For legislators it brings the individuals' needs to the forefront. Cause they're self-advocates typically when we go down there. Self-advocates are leading the march and self-advocates are the ones that are talking to the legislators,” Callahan said.
“When you have over 700 people who are really saying the same thing, it really brings the message of power and power to the people in creating change that we need.”
Callahan adds that there is a long waiting list for people with disabilities in need of help finding jobs.
