The Council completed a
ten-month study of our name—a process in which many of
you have participated. After exhaustive study, input,
and discussion, Council membership voted in October 2009
to change our name to “The
Council on Developmental Disabilities, Inc.,”
effective January 1, 2010.
This
change reflects our ever-expanding base. Our new name
more accurately describes constituents currently
utilizing the services and programs of the Council, and
those impacted by our advocacy. As the world of
disabilities becomes more sophisticated and precise,
access to services becomes more complex. Welcome
improvements in diagnostic testing have, ironically, led
to more challenges for families. A diagnosis of mental
retardation (now referred to as intellectual
disabilities) is often only one of a number of diagnoses
a child or adult might face—there may also be autism or
cerebral palsy, Down syndrome or spina bifida, mental
illness or sensory difficulties. The name change allows
the Council to extend its outreach to all of these
people and many others who currently fall between the
cracks of service delivery and to advocate on behalf of
groups who currently have no voice.
We are
proud of any change that will bring HOPE
to more people, assist the development of a VISION
of possibilities, and encourage consumers and families
to proudly give VOICE to their needs and
accomplishments.
association of families and friends of persons with mental
retardation, has been advocating for persons
with mental retardation in Jefferson County since 1952. The Council is a
member agency of Metro United Way. Additional funding sources include:
private, state, and federal grants; self-generated and program fees;
foundation gifts and grants; and donations from the general public.