ATLANTA – More than 2,000 participants are expected to visit the State Capitol on Thursday, February 24, 2011 to support the 13th Annual Disabilities Day. Registration and activities will begin at 9 a.m. at the Georgia Freight Depot. A rally will be held on the Capitol steps at 11 a.m. where participants can hear Governor Nathan Deal discuss his support for people with disabilities.

Governor Deal has expressed his support for a stronger, more effective community-based infrastructure which supports the vision Commissioner Frank E. Shelp has outlined for the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities.

“Providing Georgians with quality services in the community are at the forefront of our planning for individuals who have been diagnosed with developmental disabilities,” said Commissioner Shelp. “We have dedicated leaders in place who are committed to individuals and their families who receive services from our agency. It is certainly encouraging to have the support of Governor Deal and his staff as we continue to build and provide community-based services.”

The annual event will be attended by people living with disabilities, their family members, advocates, and providers who want to interact with legislator and show support for disability services.

The 13th Annual Disabilities Day promotes access, opportunity and meaningful community living for people with disabilities. One in five Georgians have a disability and more than 50 million Americans have some type of disability as an occurrence of birth, injury or longevity. For more information on the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities, please visit dbhdd.ga.gov.

Contact Information:

Kristie N. Swink ([email protected])