New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities

About the NJ Council on Developmental Disabilities

The New Jersey Council on Developmental Disabilities (NJCDD), located at 20 West State Street in Trenton, is a federally mandated state agency dedicated to advocating for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD). Established in 1971 via Executive Order and authorized by the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, the Council operates within the New Jersey state government but maintains a distinct, independent role as a change agent. Its primary mission is to ensure that people with disabilities and their families can participate in the design of, and have access to, community services and supports that promote self-determination, independence, and inclusion. The Council does not provide direct care services; rather, it focuses on public policy analysis, systems change, and advocacy to improve the lives of New Jerseyans with disabilities. 🏛️

Core Functions and Initiatives

The NJCDD operates under a Five-Year State Plan that guides its funding and advocacy efforts. Key activities include:

• Policy Advocacy: Working with legislators and government officials to improve laws and regulations affecting the disability community.
• Grant Funding: Awarding grants to non-profit organizations and government agencies for innovative projects that advance the Council’s goals (e.g., housing, transportation, employment).
• Capacity Building: Funding leadership training programs like ‘Partners in Policymaking’ to empower individuals with disabilities to become effective self-advocates.
• Research and Analysis: Commissioning studies to identify gaps in services and emerging needs within the state.

Location and Access

The Council’s office is situated in a multi-tenant office building in the heart of downtown Trenton’s government district.

• Security: As a professional office building, visitors may be required to check in at a security desk in the lobby.
• Public Transit: The location is highly accessible, being just a short walk from the Trenton Transit Center (serving NJ Transit, SEPTA, and Amtrak) and steps away from major bus stops on West State Street.
• Parking: Visitors typically use nearby commercial parking garages (such as those on Merchant Street or Warren Street) or metered street parking.