GLOBAL HANDS INC.
Care that makes a Difference

Global Hands Inc:
Developmental Disability Services in Maryland
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Global Hands Inc. is certified to deliver services under the following Maryland waiver programs:
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As we prepare to step into June, the sixth month of the year and its symbolic midpoint, it’s a good moment to pause and reflect on what the first half of 2025 has brought to the developmental disabilities and mental health communities in Maryland. From legislative upheavals to renewed community focus on holistic care, the year has already proven to be both challenging and inspiring. A Victory for Advocacy Earlier in the year, Maryland faced a daunting proposal—$200 million in cuts to the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) budget. This announcement in January sent waves of concern through families, caregivers, and service providers. Essential supports such as geographic differential rates and Low Intensity Support Services were on the line. However, thanks to coordinated efforts by advocates, organizations, and the public, March brought a much-needed victory. A supplemental budget introduced by Governor Wes Moore restored significant funding to the DDA for fiscal year 2025 and partially addressed the 2026 deficit. This reversal was a reminder of the power of collective voice and persistent advocacy. May: Advocacy in Action & Emotional Well-being Building on the momentum from March, May was a month marked by continued engagement and reflection. Advocates remained vocal, ensuring that the budget win didn’t mark the end of involvement but a call to stay vigilant. Attention also shifted to the personal aspects of care—namely, the importance of fostering healthy relationships and emotional well-being among individuals with developmental disabilities. Programs and conversations during May emphasized that love, connection, and friendship are not just social ideals—they’re essential components of mental health and human dignity. This holistic lens toward care was embraced in homes, facilities, and community spaces. The Path Forward As we transition into the second half of the year, it’s clear that the work is far from over. Sustainability of services, fair wages for caregivers, and accessible community-based programs remain key priorities. The groundwork laid during the first five months will be crucial as we navigate the rest of 2025. Stay connected, stay informed. Learn more about local services, support efforts, and how you can contribute to building inclusive communities at www.globalhandsinc.com .

As Memorial Day arrives, we pause to honor the brave men and women who gave their lives in service to our nation. Their sacrifices represent the highest form of courage and selflessness, protecting the freedoms we often take for granted. This national day of remembrance is not only a time for reflection, but also a powerful reminder of the importance of community, healing, and support. For individuals living with mental health challenges and developmental disabilities, holidays like Memorial Day can stir a complex range of emotions. The sounds of celebration, the memory of lost loved ones, and the cultural weight of the day can be difficult to navigate. Creating inclusive spaces where people can both honor the fallen and feel emotionally safe is a priority we must all share. Community-based mental health and developmental disability support systems play a crucial role in ensuring no one feels left behind—on Memorial Day or any other day. Whether it's through structured therapy, supportive housing, or community engagement programs, these services help individuals not just survive, but thrive in their own way. As we gather with family and friends for parades, barbecues, or moments of silence, let us also consider those who may need extra care and support this season. The spirit of Memorial Day is rooted in service. And service extends beyond the battlefield—it lives in how we treat and care for one another. Let this Memorial Day be a call to action: to honor through empathy, to remember through service, and to uplift those who need us most. 👉 Learn how compassionate, professional support can make all the difference: www.globalhandsinc.com

Love is a universal human experience, transcending age, background, and ability. Yet, when it comes to individuals with developmental disabilities, love is often misunderstood, overlooked, or even discouraged by society. It’s time to shift the narrative and recognize that people with developmental disabilities not only seek love but are fully capable of forming deep, meaningful relationships—just like anyone else. The Right to Love Every person, regardless of ability, has the right to experience affection, intimacy, and connection. For individuals with developmental disabilities, navigating romantic relationships might come with unique challenges, but those challenges do not diminish their capacity for love or their entitlement to it. Unfortunately, stigma and overprotectiveness can lead to isolation and lack of access to healthy relationship experiences. It's essential that caregivers, educators, and communities create environments where individuals feel safe, respected, and encouraged to explore and express love. Understanding Love in All Its Forms Love is not one-size-fits-all. It encompasses friendship, family, romantic partnerships, and self-love. For people with developmental disabilities, each form of love can provide empowerment, belonging, and personal growth. Educational programs that focus on emotional intelligence, communication skills, and consent can help individuals better understand their emotions and relationships. Additionally, incorporating relationship education into support plans helps to normalize the idea that love is an integral part of life—regardless of disability. Supporting Healthy Relationships Support systems play a crucial role in facilitating healthy relationships. Families and caregivers should: Provide guidance rather than control. Encourage open conversations about feelings and boundaries. Support social opportunities where connections can be formed naturally. Respect privacy and individuality in personal choices. Training support staff and family members to approach relationships with empathy and openness is essential for building trust and confidence in the individual. Challenges and Advocacy While love is beautiful, relationships can come with emotional complexity. People with developmental disabilities may face difficulties with understanding social cues or setting boundaries, making them more vulnerable to exploitation or heartbreak. Advocacy for inclusive relationship education and safeguarding practices is vital. Ensuring that individuals are educated about their rights, and that support structures are in place to intervene when needed, helps promote emotional well-being. Celebrating Love Stories Many individuals with developmental disabilities live fulfilling romantic lives—some get married, some cohabitate, and others form lifelong partnerships in their own way. These stories should be celebrated and shared to inspire others and break down harmful stereotypes. Final Thoughts Love enriches lives. People with developmental disabilities deserve the freedom to love, the tools to build strong relationships, and the support to experience intimacy safely and confidently. Love is not a privilege reserved for a few—it is a right we all share. Empower someone today. Learn more about how to support healthy relationships for individuals with developmental disabilities by visiting www.globalhandsinc.com .