Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities

The Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities currently invests in technology, training, public policy and new business development that address the following areas: (1) Enabling individuals who live with developmental disabilities to live great lives in their own homes in their own communities and encouraging the closure of state-run institutions. (2) Promoting self-direction and supported decision making in lieu of guardianships and paternalistic, institutional, custodial care. (3) Supporting self-advocacy through training programs and direct support of grass-roots advocacy groups such as the Cross Disability Lifespan Alliance, People First and CT KASA. (4) Assisting parents who live with developmental disabilities to be more involved in their children’s school and community activities. (5) Developing more effective means for individuals who live with developmental disabilities to enter the workforce in meaningful, gratifying employment. (6) Creating opportunities for individuals who live with developmental disabilities to pursue post-secondary education. (7) Increasing the availability of On-Demand Transportation for individuals who live with developmental disabilities for travel to work and leisure activities. The Connecticut Council on Developmental Disabilities is funded by an annual federal grant to make investments in these areas.