The Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council is made up of people from every region of the state who are appointed by the Governor to develop and implement a five year plan to address needed changes in the service delivery system for persons with developmental disabilities. Membership includes persons with developmental disabilities, parents, advocates, and representatives from public and private agencies. Several members rotate off the Council each year and applications for new members are always welcomed.
Developmental Disabilities Councils were founded in 1970 as a result of the passage of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. The Louisiana Council was established in 1971. Councils were created to engage in advocacy, capacity building and systems change activities and contribute to a coordinated, consumer- and family-centered, and consumer- and family-directed comprehensive system of community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that enable individuals with developmental disabilities to exercise self-determination, be independent, productive, and integrated and included in all facets of community life.
Council’s Mission
The Council’s mission is to lead and promote advocacy, capacity building, and systemic change to improve the quality of life for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.