July is Fragile X Awareness Month: Together for a Brighter Future

Each July, we recognize Fragile X Awareness Month - a time to raise visibility, foster understanding, and show support for individuals and families affected by this often-overlooked condition.

What Is Fragile X Syndrome?

Fragile X syndrome (FXS) is the most common inherited cause of intellectual disability and one of the leading known genetic causes of autism. It’s caused by a change in the FMR1 gene, which disrupts brain development and function.

FXS affects individuals in different ways, with common symptoms including:

  • Developmental and learning delays

  • Speech and language challenges

  • Sensory sensitivities

  • Anxiety and behavioral differences

  • Difficulty with social interaction

While Fragile X presents unique challenges, it also brings out resilience, creativity, and strength in those living with it - and in their families.

This Year’s Theme: Together for a Brighter Future

The 2025 national theme, “Together for a Brighter Future,” speaks to the importance of unity. It’s a call to action for communities, providers, researchers, and families to come together to create inclusive, empowered lives for people with Fragile X.

Why Awareness Matters

Despite being the most common inherited intellectual disability, Fragile X remains underdiagnosed and misunderstood. Awareness leads to:

  • Earlier and more accurate diagnoses

  • Better access to services and therapies

  • Stronger community support

  • A more inclusive and informed society

InCommunity’s Commitment to Inclusion

At InCommunity, our mission is to help individuals with Fragile X, autism, and other developmental disabilities live safe, healthy, and joyful lives. Our Direct Care Programs include: 

1.    Adult Day Programs – Engaging participants in skill-building, social connection, and creative pursuits in community settings

2.    Residential Options – Offering varied living arrangements designed to promote independence and well-being

3.    Family Support – Providing funding and emergency respite care to ease family caregiving burdens

4.    Supported Employment – Through our EmployABILITY program, adults gain real-world job experience in mainstream workplaces

5.    Crisis Support – Delivering intensive, short-term interventions during critical periods

6.    Community Living Support – Offering regular in-home and community-based assistance to maintain healthy, active lives

These programs reflect our core belief: Inclusion is not optional - it’s essential. We support individuals in being active, visible community members - volunteering, attending events, accessing transportation, and participating in civic life.

In every program, our goal is the same: to promote independence, dignity, and inclusion.

How You Can Support Fragile X Awareness

  • Wear Teal: It’s the official color of Fragile X Awareness Month. Show your support and spark conversation.

  •  Share Stories: Personal experiences break down stigma and foster connection.

  • Educate Your Community: Awareness spreads when we speak up and share what we know.

  • Support Organizations Like InCommunity: Your involvement - through donations, volunteering, or advocacy - makes inclusion possible.

Moving Forward - Together

Fragile X Awareness Month is more than a campaign. It’s a movement toward a world where people with disabilities are not only accepted - but they are also included, celebrated, and empowered.

At InCommunity, we stand firmly behind that mission. Together, we are building a brighter, more inclusive future - for everyone.

 

Sherane Heron