Mission
The Louisiana Developmental Disabilities Council’s mission is to increase independence, self-determination, productivity, integration, and inclusion for Louisianans with developmental disabilities by engaging in advocacy, capacity building, and systems change.
Who We Are
The Council was established in 1971 as a result of the passage of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act. The Council is made up of twenty-eight Governor-appointed individuals from across the state who are persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD), parents, advocates and representatives from public and private agencies. The Council members are tasked with the development and implementation of a five-year plan to address needed changes in the service delivery system for persons with I/DD.
What We Do
The Council engages in advocacy, capacity building, and systems change activities that contribute to a coordinated, person-centered and directed system of community services and supports. To build capacity and effect systems change, Councils are charged with carrying out specific activities in the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act to:
- Organize and Enlist Others to Influence
- Empower
- Change Public Attitudes
- Advocate and Influence
- Demonstrate Innovation
- Provide Training and Technical Assistance
- Redesign the System
- Remove Barriers
- Educate Policy Makers
- Educate the Public
- Develop & Support Coalitions
- Outreach
More Information About the Council