The Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) is dedicated to ensuring that people with developmental disabilities enjoy the same quality of life, opportunities, and rights as everyone else in society. Our work involves advocacy, community engagement, education, and the promotion of policies that foster inclusion and accessibility for individuals with developmental disabilities.

Our Mission and Work

At the DDC, our mission is to create a more inclusive and equitable society by supporting initiatives that enhance the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Here are some of the key projects we have undertaken to achieve our goals:

1. Oral Health Campaign

Our Oral Health Campaign highlights the critical importance of good oral hygiene for adults with developmental disabilities. Through this initiative, we provide resources, educational materials, and community outreach to ensure that everyone has access to proper dental care and understands its role in overall health.

2. School Inclusion in Delaware

We are committed to fostering a culture of inclusion in Delaware’s schools. By gathering input from educators, parents, and community members through meetings and online submissions, we aim to improve policies and practices that support inclusive education. Our efforts focus on ensuring that students with developmental disabilities are fully integrated into all aspects of school life.

3. Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Awareness

Studies have shown that individuals with Down syndrome have a higher risk of developing Alzheimer’s disease as they age. To address this, we have developed educational materials and resources to help families, caregivers, and medical professionals prepare for this possibility. Our goal is to provide support and information to those affected, ensuring they have access to the best care and planning resources.

4. LIFE Conference Participation

The DDC actively participates in events like the LIFE Conference, which brings together people with disabilities, their families, caregivers, and professionals to share knowledge, experiences, and best practices. The 2018 LIFE Conference was a great success, and we look forward to even greater participation in 2019!

Ongoing and Upcoming Initiatives

The DDC continues to work on a variety of projects and campaigns aimed at improving the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. Here are some of the initiatives we are currently focusing on:

5. Employment Advocacy for Individuals with Disabilities

We are working on developing strategies and partnerships to promote meaningful employment opportunities for individuals with developmental disabilities. This includes advocating for workplace accommodations, job coaching, and training programs to help individuals build the skills they need to succeed.

6. Accessible Housing Initiatives

Access to affordable and accessible housing is a critical issue for many people with developmental disabilities. The DDC is actively collaborating with local government and housing organizations to ensure that new developments are designed with accessibility in mind and that existing housing is modified to meet the needs of individuals with disabilities.

7. Enhancing Transportation Options

Transportation is a key barrier for many people with developmental disabilities when it comes to accessing community resources, employment, and social activities. The DDC is working to improve public transportation options, promote rideshare programs, and advocate for better accessibility in all forms of transportation across Delaware.

8. Promoting Health and Wellness Programs

We believe that everyone deserves to lead a healthy life. Our health and wellness programs focus on providing access to fitness, nutrition, and wellness education tailored specifically for individuals with developmental disabilities. We partner with local health providers and community centers to create inclusive health initiatives.

9. Supporting Family Caregivers

The role of family caregivers is vital in the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities. We offer resources, training, and support groups for caregivers to help them navigate their responsibilities and provide the best possible care for their loved ones.

Stay Connected with Us!

We invite you to connect with the DDC community and stay updated on our latest news, events, and initiatives:

• Facebook: Follow us on Facebook to join the conversation, share your stories, and learn more about our work.
• Email: Reach out to us at info@decommunityconversations.com for more information or to get involved with any of our programs and initiatives.
• Location: Visit us at the Margaret M. O’Neill Building, Suite 2, 410 Federal Street, 2nd Floor, Dover, Delaware 19901.

Get Involved with the DDC!

The Delaware Developmental Disabilities Council is always looking for passionate individuals to join us in our mission. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, attending one of our events, or simply staying informed about our work, there are many ways to get involved. Together, we can make Delaware a more inclusive and welcoming place for everyone!