Carmel Celebrates National Disability Awareness Month With Events, Resources

The City of Carmel is shining a light on inclusive programming and community events that celebrate individuals of all abilities and promote greater understanding and accessibility ahead of and during National Disability Awareness Month.

From Carmel’s Midtown Plaza to Noblesville High School, local leaders and organizations are partnering to host a series of “limitless” events—ranging from sensory-rich community days and adaptive competitions to regional resource fairs—all dedicated to making Hamilton County a place where everyone belongs.

Adaptive Virtual Art Exhibit

Throughout March
Midtown Screen in Midtown Plaza and City digital channels365 Monon Blvd., CarmelIn a beautiful display of local talent, this annual virtual exhibit—Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation, held in partnership with the Carmel Arts Council—will showcase the work of artists with disabilities. Look for these exciting pieces on the Midtown screen all month long and featured in the City of Carmel’s weekly e-newsletter.

March Disability Awareness Book List

Throughout March
Carmel Clay Public Library
Starting Sunday, March 1, the library will share a list of recommended books to highlight authors with a disability or books with characters with a disability.

Hamilton County Disability Resource Fair

Wednesday, March 4, 5:30 – 7:30 p.m.
Noblesville High School18111 Cumberland Rd., Noblesville
Families and individuals are invited to connect with a wide network of local advocates and service providers. This regional fair features Pure Abilities recreational therapists, music therapists, behavior consultants and PAC/DSP providers, offering a comprehensive look at the support systems available throughout the county.

Community Sensory Day

Saturday, March 7, 11 a.m. – 1 p.m.
New location this year! Carmel Fire Department S.A.F.E. House210 Veterans Way, Carmel
Join the community at the Carmel Fire Department S.A.F.E. House for a day of sensory-friendly fun, sponsored by Xfinity. This event features snacks courtesy of BraunAbility, free giveaways and sensory activities. 

Inclusive Theater Performance – Fireside Mysteries

Saturday, March 14, 6 – 8 p.m.
Sunday March 15, 2 – 4 p.m.

Monon Community Center – Multipurpose Room A, B & C
This production was developed over six months by Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation’s inclusive theater ensemble, featuring neurodivergent actors who collaboratively created the original script and characters. This performance celebrates creativity, inclusion and the power of storytelling.About National Disability Awareness Month in Hamilton County
National Disability Awareness Month is observed annually in March to celebrate the contributions of people with disabilities and to advocate for a more inclusive society. These local events are made possible through the collaboration of the City of Carmel, the Carmel Advisory Committee on Disability, Carmel Clay Parks & Recreation and various Hamilton County partners.