Why do DD Councils Matter?
Developmental disabilities (DD) Councils help make sure people with disabilities have a voice in everyday issues that impact them locally and across the state. They work so everyone can live, work, and take part in their community. They support ideas like living at home, having a job in a competitive, integrated environment, being able to go to school, being treated fairly, and being represented when big decisions are made.
Where did DD Councils Come From?
Developmental disabilities (DD) Councils were created by a federal law called the Developmental Disabilities Act (DD Act). This law says every state and territory must have a council. The goal is to protect the rights of people with developmental disabilities and help them live full lives in their communities. This work has been going on for more than 50 years.
How do DD Councils Help Their State?
Driven by their Five Year State Plans, developmental disabilities (DD) Councils launch and fund new ideas to solve problems that impact the disability community and create systems change.
These can be training programs, creating toolkits, launching new programs, or bringing groups together to work on a shared goal.
They also help people with disabilities and their families become leaders and speak up for themselves. Councils also educate and inform key decision makers and lawmakers to show what needs to change.
How You Can Get Involved
The best way to get involved is to apply to become a Council member! Councils are required by law to have 60% of their membership be people with disabilities and their family members.
Aside from applying to be a member, people can attend Council meetings, share ideas, and take part in council projects. Many councils also have newsletters, public forums, advocacy events, and social media pages where people can learn more and get engaged.
Swipe & learn all about what DD Councils are, what they do, how they work, & (most importantly) how YOU can get involved!
Visit the #WereHereAllYear gallery for personal stories from people with developmental #disabilities from across the nation.
Gallery link: nacdd.org/2025-dd-awar...
