Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council - Montpelier, VT

About Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council

The Vermont Developmental Disabilities Council (VTDDC) is a statewide public board headquartered in Montpelier, Vermont. Established under the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act, the Council serves as a powerful advocate for the inclusion, independence, and self-determination of people with developmental disabilities. Unlike a service provider that offers direct care, the VTDDC focuses on systemic change. It works to identify gaps in the state's support systems and invests federal funds into innovative projects, policies, and research that improve the lives of Vermonters with disabilities and their families.

Advocacy and Leadership

At the heart of the VTDDC's mission is the principle of 'Nothing About Us Without Us.' The Council is composed of members appointed by the Governor, with the majority being individuals with developmental disabilities or their family members. This ensures that the people most affected by policy decisions are the ones driving the agenda. The Council actively engages in:

• Policy Education: Informing legislators and state agencies about the needs and rights of the disability community.
• Leadership Training: Sponsoring the Vermont Leadership Series, which trains self-advocates and families to become effective leaders and changemakers in their communities.
• Civil Rights Monitoring: Acting as a watchdog to ensure that state services adhere to civil rights laws and principles of inclusion.

Grants and Initiatives

The VTDDC operates based on a comprehensive Five-Year State Plan. Through this plan, the Council awards grants to non-profit organizations and community groups to pilot new support models in areas such as employment, housing, transportation, and health equity. These projects often serve as testing grounds for best practices that can later be adopted statewide. The Council does not provide individual financial aid but rather funds initiatives that have a broader community impact.

Location and Operations

The Council's administrative office is located in Montpelier. This space is used for the daily operations of the staff who manage the grants, coordinate Council meetings, and collaborate with federal and state partners. While the Council welcomes input from the public, the office is primarily administrative. Most of the Council's visible work takes place in the community—at the State House, in conference rooms, and through virtual forums—where they work tirelessly to build a Vermont where everyone belongs.