What is IDD?

IDD is the acronym for Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities. The perception of people with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (IDD) has long carried a societal bias. Stereotypical viewpoints of this population may result in discrimination and prejudice or cause a feeling of discomfort and avoidance. Regardless of the manifestation of social interactions, it becomes a critical task to start to impact change by shifting away from a society with disability bias and towards one of acceptance and support.

^{About the project}

Thriving Together: The Power of Inclusion is a 60-minute documentary produced by The Community Media Center of Carroll County (CMC), in collaboration with The Arc Carroll County, Target Community & Educational Services, Inc., Bello Machre, and Penn-Mar. The program follows the narrative of four individuals with IDD, both communicative and non-communicative, engaging in their daily activities of independence in the areas of residential living, external educational support, employment, and community day services. Weaving the threads of these stories together as they unfold will show how little wins can become big accomplishments. This offers a variety of viewpoints and perspectives creating intrigue for the viewer. As the participants highlight their abilities and superpowers, it builds empathy and a positive perception for the audience and delivers the message of beneficial contribution and capability.

This documentary is to provide a resource that shows the beneficial contributions of the IDD population and the agencies that support them alongside organizations that employ them. It will culminate in a public screening on December 2, 2025 at the Carroll Arts Center in Westminster, MD.

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Be Part of the Change - Donate Today

The donations for this collaborative project will be retained in a dedicated  account. At the conclusion of 2025, donations received for this project will be equally divided among the five collaborating organizations. Thank you for your generous support.

The Community Media Center is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization and your contributions are tax deductible to the maximum extent allowed by IRS regulations. Please consult your tax advisor to determine the tax deductibility of your contribution.

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Meet the partners