The Division of Developmental Disabilities serves more than 33,000 people with developmental disabilities. These include disabilities such as mental retardation, cerebral palsy, autism, epilepsy, spina bifida, traumatic brain injuries and certain neurological impairments.

Most of the people served by DDD live at home with their families. Others reside in living arrangements that are funded and licensed by the division.

With an operating budget of over $1,000,000,000 for FY 2004 and over 9,000 staff, the division coordinates and/or provides a wide variety of services to help people with developmental disabilities live as independently as possible. Most services are provided through state contracts with private organizations or individuals. The availability of services depends on current resources and types of services may vary in each county.

Consumer choice and family participation in planning for care is central to the division's mission.

As part of its service provision, DDD provides case management, residential services and various family support services that help both people with developmental disabilities and their families.

In addition, care includes the provision of day programs, to help people with developmental disabilities develop vocational skills and to learn how to use community resources; supported employment services, to help them develop job skills, such as interacting with groups, how to volunteer for work, and providing them with job coaches so that they can remain employed; and help with guardianship procedures.

The division also provides personal and medical care, training, therapy and supervision to individuals with the most severe disabilities in seven developmental centers, statewide.

Eligibility
The Division serves people with developmental disabilities, which are evident before age 22 and are lifelong, hindering a person's ability to live without assistance. To qualify for services, the disability must be lifelong in its duration and substantially limit the individual in at least three of the following areas: self-care, learning, mobility, communication, self-direction (i.e., the ability to direct one's own care and well being), economic self-sufficiency and the ability to live independently.

How to Apply
To apply for services from DDD, contact the Community Services Office that serves the county in which you live. You will be guided through the application process, eligibility will be determined and service recommendations that include appropriate information and referrals specific to your circumstances, will be made.

Where to go for more help and information
Phone lines are open 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Mondays through Fridays, but someone always is available after hours for emergencies.

ALSO: The Division of Disability Services can provide information about services for all people with disabilities.