Message from Governor Moore 

The First Lady and I are heartbroken to hear of Meghan Jones's passing.
As Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council's Vice Chair, Meghan played an important role in advocating for Maryland's disability community. She lived by the motto: “Nothing about us, without us” because she didn't believe in only pointing out problems. She believed in being an active part of the solution. Her kindness, her tireless dedication, and her friendship will be missed by so many throughout this state.
We are keeping Meghan, her family and friends, and the Council in our prayers.

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Tribute from Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council: 
​The Council's story is one of advocacy and creating change for the DD community. As our vice chair, Meghan Jones played a big role in this mission. She was an incredible advocate not just for herself, but for all Marylanders with disabilities. We mourn the loss of this dynamic advocate and leader and incredible person.
Meghan's journey with the Council began in 2017 when she joined us as a passionate advocate. She was elected vice chair in 2022. Her voice echoed in Annapolis, where she testified multiple times, including on a bill just last year that removed harmful, outdated language from our state laws. Meghan’s story of leadership was also recognized in July when she was inducted into the National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities (NACDD) Self-Advocate Leadership Circle—an honor reflecting the impact of her tireless work.
Governor Moore also acknowledged Meghan with deep respect during an executive order signing last summer, saying: “When the story of this state is written, [Meghan’s] name will be in lights.” We couldn't agree more.
Meghan’s laughter, kindness, leadership, and dedication to self-advocacy will be missed. We will continue the story of advocacy and change through our work. Her memory will guide and motivate us as we move forward. Our thoughts are with her family, friends, and all those who loved her.

Updates from the Jones family
*Thank you for the outpouring of love from our UCR family and community members.  
*A picnic/party celebration of life is being planned for this summer. The date is forthcoming.
*Please do not send more flowers or food to the Jones family.
*In lieu of these typical comfort gifts, please feel free to make a donation to UCR in Meghan's honor. The donate button is here or on the front page. 
​*A Community gathering and sharing session facilitated by our own Mama Peace is being planned for Meghan's birthday Feb. 17. Time and place TBD.
*The Montgomery County Council will recognize Meghan's service to our community with a Proclamation on March 4th at 9am. All invited to County Council hearing room 100 Maryland Avenue. 

Meghan Jones was a strong, independent woman who happens to have Down Syndrome.  She works two jobs, serves as a lecturer, usher and altar server in her church and a member of leadership council for the Church Youth Group. She was a founding board member for Upcounty Community Resources and helped to coordinate social events.  Meghan attended Magruder High School, was a member of the Junior Reserve Officer Corps earning the rank of Sergeant and was awarded the Presidential Award for community Service through volunteering over 500 hours. She graduated from the Transition Training for Independence Program at Montgomery College.  Meghan completed  internships with Project Search at the National Institute of Health as well as an internship at the Kennedy Center in Washington DC. This fierce advocate was fluent in American Sign Language and testified before Maryland legislators, the US Dept. of Labor Secretary’s Advisory Committee on Competitive Integrated Employment of Individuals with Disabilities and has been a presenter at the Techniques for Success Conference.