Film festival recognizes Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month

Goshen — To honor the many children and adults in Orange County who live with developmental disabilities, the Orange County Developmental Disabilities Education and Training Consortium is hosting a film festival this month to recognize the individuals for their contributions to the community, as well as the families, friends, caregivers and advocates who support them. The festival will showcase films on Saturdays, March 12, 19, and 26 at two different Orange County locations. One of the featured films, “Chad’s Story,” is a documentary about a young man from Orange County. “Developmental disabilities come in many forms and may cause mental or physical limitations or both,” said Chris Ashman, Orange County Commissioner of Mental Health. “These conditions include autism, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, mental retardation, and other neurological impairments. Whatever challenges an individual faces, it’s important to remember that what they need most is encouragement, understanding, and the willingness of others to help them maximize their opportunities for becoming a vital part of their community.” Film schedule “Burt’s Story,” on Saturday, March 12, noon to 2 p.m. Seventy-nine year old Burt has been in and out of institutions throughout his life. This film gives a chronological history of his life and times. Location: Cornwall High School, 10 Dragon Drive (off of Route 94), New Windsor “Shooting Beauty,” on Saturday, March 19, 2 to 4 p.m. This film is about a photographer who forms a bond with a group of individuals with developmental disabilities. It follows the group for seven years and shows how they learn to express themselves through their remarkable photography. Location: SUNY Orange, Harriman Hall Room 111, Middletown “Asperger’s Difference” and “Chad’s Story,” on Saturday, March 26, noon to 2 p.m. In “Asperger’s Difference,” Annie is in middle school, Noah is in high school and Jeffrey attends college. The three represent a range of ages and circumstances, but share many of the common challenges and strengths of individuals living with Asperger’s Syndrome. “Chad’s Story”: From MTV’s popular series “The World of Jenks,” this documentary is about 20-year-old Chad’s life in Orange County. Chad and his family will be in attendance. Location: Cornwall High School, 10 Dragon Drive (off of Route 94), New Windsor For information about developmental disability services, providers, training, and events in Orange County, visit www.orangecountynyddconnection.com.