Frequently Asked Questions About GCDD
Q. What is the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD)?
The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) is a federally funded independent state agency that promotes and creates opportunities to enable persons with disabilities to live, work, play and worship as an integral part of society. We accomplish this through three primary areas of focus: public policy, advocacy and program funding and implementation.
Through collaboration with citizens, policymakers, public and private advocacy organizations, we work to promote increased independence, inclusion, integration, productivity and self-determination for persons with developmental disabilities. Our efforts include public policy research, analysis, and promotion, project demonstration, education, training, and dissemination of accurate public information.
Q. What is a developmental disability?
A developmental disability is a severe, chronic, mental and/or physical disability which occurs before age 22 and is expected to last a lifetime. People with developmental disabilities will require supports in three or more of the following life activities: self-care, language, learning, mobility, self-direction, independent living and economic self-sufficiency.
Q. When was the GCDD established?
The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities is one of 55 Developmental Disabilities Councils established across the country and its territories under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 1971 and authorized under the federal law, PL 106-402 (2000 Amendment).
Originally, and according to state legislation, GCDD was created as the “Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities.” GCDD’s name was changed in July 2009 to the “Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities,” in accordance with legislation that ordered the reorganization of the Department of Human Resources (DHR). This is the same legislation that established the new Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. GCDD is attached to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) for administrative purposes only.
Since its inception in 1971, the GCDD has been a leading resource for public information, advocacy, and public policy efforts. The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities is leading the nation in its Real Communities Initiative to guide, support, join and build inclusive and welcoming communities across the state.
Q. Does the GCDD provide services to people with disabilities and their families?
The GCDD does not provide direct services to persons with developmental disabilities, as federal funds from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities are not allowed to be used for that purpose.
However, the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities collaborates with agencies, individuals, parents and advocates to support families and persons living with developmental disabilities by promoting good public policies and creating innovative projects. In addition, the GCDD assists individuals with disabilities and their families with sharing their stories and making sure their voices are heard.
Q. What does the GCDD do?
Our work is based on three areas of focus: public policy, advocacy and program funding and implementation. The Council and GCDD staff promotes activities and creates opportunities that enable people with developmental disabilities to exercise their rights to live, learn, work, play, and worship in the place and manner of their choice.
GCDD often uses its resources to commission research on policy issues and to fund model programs. GCDD funds projects to inform decision makers, legislators and the general public about developmental disabilities. There are many efforts made to advocate and educate the various audiences about critical issues affecting people with disabilities through publications such as Making a Difference Magazine, Moving Forward newsletter, and events such as Disability Day at the Capitol and Discovery Day.
Q. Who are members of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities
and how are they selected?
The GCDD is governed by a 27-member board, known as “The Council.” They are appointed by the Governor and comprised of at least 60 percent individuals with developmental disabilities and/or family members. Other members include policymakers that represent various agencies and organizations having
responsibilities in serving and supporting people with developmental disabilities.
For a current list of Council members and advisory members, please visit the “About” section.
The application to become a member of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found in the “About” section as well. These appointments are made by the Governor and there is no set time frame for when they are made.
Q. With what organizations does the GCDD partner?
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities funds three different types of organizations in each state and territory that make up what is called the Developmental Disabilities Network. The DD Act encourages this network to collaborate. In Georgia, the DD Network Partners include:
The Georgia Advocacy Office (GAO) –A non-profit organization located in Decatur, Ga. Its mission is to work with and for oppressed and vulnerable individuals who are labeled as disabled or mentally ill to secure their protection and advocacy.
The Institute on Human Development and Disability (IHDD) – A University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities located at the University of Georgia in Athens. IHDD helps people with disabilities enhance their quality life and achieve their highest capacities.
The Center for Leadership in Disability – A University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities located at Georgia State University in Atlanta. Its mission is to translate research into sustainable community practices that contribute to independent, self-determined, inclusive and productive lives for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Q. What are examples of collaboration among the DD Network partners?
The Safe Schools Initiative is a collaboration of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, Georgia Advocacy Office, Center for Leadership in Disability, Institute on Human Development and Disability and Parent to Parent of Georgia. The ultimate goal is to shift the culture of Georgia public schools so that all students have the right to receive an appropriate education in a safe environment that enhances learning. The coalition encourages the use of positive behavior supports and works to ensure that all students shall be free of restraint and seclusion in schools. The joint effort hosted focus groups around the state, organized a press conference, produced materials that explained the proposed rule from the state Department of Education, populated a website with pertinent information, sent out action alerts to families and advocates, provided information on positive behavior supports, encouraged a letter writing campaign, and gathered stories from families related to this topic.
The Children’s Freedom Initiative has been an on-going collaboration between the DD Network partners. The goal of this effort is to get children out of state institutions or nursing homes and into permanent loving homes. The work has
included obtaining a resolution through the legislature, production of a booklet of stories, assistance in person centered planning for some of these young people, facilitation of a study tour for families and people with disabilities to see their
options.
Q. What is the GCDD’s role with public policy?
The GCDD supports legislative activities that foster good quality home and community-based supports for persons with developmental disabilities. This objective is accomplished through a variety of ways:
- Monitor and make recommendations for the state budget on home and community-based services impacting people with developmental disabilities.
- Keep legislators informed on the challenges families face in caring for their loved ones with disabilities.
- Assist families in telling their own stories to their legislators.
Q. How does the GCDD decide on its legislative agenda?
Prior to the legislative session, the GCDD invites people, organizations and agencies to submit their legislative agenda or issues that they would like the Council to consider supporting legislatively. The Deputy Director, Pat Nobbie, reviews these recommendations and prepares background information. During the October quarterly meeting, Council members are presented with the information about each issue and discuss the concerns from the disability community. Decisions on placing items on the legislative agenda are based on four criteria:
- Issues must directly or indirectly affect people with developmental disabilities or the GCDD itself.
- The issue must align with the GCDD mission, vision and values. Our organization has the knowledge and expertise to represent the issue.
- There is the capability of developing a realistic plan for how to implement the policy position, communicate the plan to the appropriate people, and make use of the position in our work.
After there is consensus on which items they want to include on the legislative agenda, the Council members rank the items in a tiered system. If the issue is something that the Council needs to take the lead on, the item is a tier1. If the issue is something the Council needs to support, but some other organization is
taking the lead, the item is a tier 2. If the issue is something the Council is willing to support by lending their name, the item is a tier 3. If the GCDD needs to remain neutral and not take a stand, the item is a tier 4. If the GCDD needs to oppose the issue, the item is a tier 5.
The legislative agenda is posted on our website following the Council’s October meeting. The agenda is a working plan that is used to guide and direct GCDD’s time and resources during the legislative session. If an unexpected issue pops up during the legislative session, the executive committee is consulted and
provides guidance on how to respond.
Q. How can I support the GCDD and its efforts to influence public policy?
The GCDD sends out a legislative newsletter every week of the session called Moving Forward. You can also advocate by calling your local legislator to share your personal story and advocate for issues on which the Council is working. You can find a comprehensive list of state and county legislators and contacts in Congress, the Senate and the House.
For more information on GCDD public policy efforts, contact Pat Nobbie, Deputy Director at pnobbie@dhr.state.ga.us .
Q. What does the GCDD do to advocate?
The GCDD hosts Disability Day at the Capitol, an annual event held every February where thousands of people from all across Georgia gather at the State Capitol for a day of advocacy on disability issues.
The GCDD leads an advocacy campaign called “Unlock the Waiting Lists!” to reduce or eliminate waiting lists for home and community-based services. As of July 2010, 5,011 people in the community are waiting for home and community- based services.
Q. What is “Unlock the Waiting Lists!”?
“Unlock the Waiting Lists!” is an advocacy campaign to reduce or eliminate waiting lists for home and community-based services for persons with disabilities. The goals are to:
- bring together stakeholders from the different disability groups throughout Georgia to work together;
- create a partnership among these individuals, families, advocates, providers, governmental leaders and agencies, and legislators to address Georgia’s challenges;
- provide a focus, with consistent and successful strategies that can be used throughout the state;
- generate media attention and public awareness to the critical needs of individuals and their families; and
- increase the allocations of funds targeted for home and community-based services.
More than 100 organizations have signed onto the campaign. You can sign up to receive action alerts by clicking here: http://www.unlockthewaitinglists.com/join.html.
Q. What kind of programs does the GCDD support?
The GCDD funds projects that promote best practices demonstrating programs, vehicles and methods to enhance the quality of life families and persons living with developmental disabilities. These projects provide information that can help educate decision makers, legislators, and the general public about developmental disabilities. The following are a few examples:
Project Search is a high school transition program that teaches student interns marketable, transferable, competitive work skills in a business setting with the end goal being employment. Project Search started in Cincinnati, Ohio and is being replicated in 36 states and 4 countries. See their website at www.projectsearch.us.
Partnerships for Success is a program designed to promote relationships between young people with developmental disabilities and their peers through leadership-building activities, recreation and social activities, community service and other shared experiences. The project teaches
self-determination and conducts person-centered and futures planning to help young people set their goals and use their voice to express what it important to them. See www.partnershipsforsuccess.com.
Academy for Inclusive Adult Education at Kennesaw State University provides an on-campus college experience for graduated high school students with intellectual disabilities. Students participate in the typical freshman orientation seminars and then audit classes of their choice. The
Project provides the necessary supports and accommodations. See www.kennesaw.edu/chhs/centers/aiae/
The Georgia Micro-boards Association was formed to provide training and ongoing assistance to small, non-profit organizations called micro-boards throughout the state, whose mission is to oversee the supports and services of one individual with a disability. See www.gamicroboards.org
Direct Support Professional Certificate Program is a curriculum that was developed and is offered through the technical colleges in Georgia. It provides both classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences through two classes and two practicum and linkage with a learning partner (person with a disability). See www.directsupportnetwork.com
• What can the GCDD do for people with disabilities or their families? The GCDD has two ways to help fund learning opportunities or projects that improve the lives of people with disabilities:
The Partnership Fund is a GCDD resource that awards small grants (not to exceed $2500) to help individuals with disabilities and/or family members attend learning events or conferences. All awards are made as reimbursements; funds can not be made available before the event. Please note that no individual, group, or organization may receive partnership funds in successive years. Applications are available by clicking here. Completed applications should be emailed to Drelda Mackey at least 30 days before the event. Any questions may also be sent to Drelda Mackey via email at drmackey@dhr.state.ga.us . Recipients must keep their receipts for documenting their expenditures.
Innovative Grants are small, renewable grants for unique projects that help people with developmental disabilities overcome barriers to participating inclusively in aspects of life related to careers, homes, learning, supports, and influence. The ultimate outcome of Innovative Grants is to promote policies,
system change, and capacity building activities that improve the quality of life for Georgians with developmental disabilities. Applications are accepted for projects on October 1st and April 1st. Learn more about Innovative Grants here.
Q. What is the REAL COMMUNITIES Initiative?
Over the past year, the GCDD has been on a learning journey to see how to pursue and achieve its objectives by working with the broader community. This purposeful learning has helped us establish the REAL COMMUNITIES Initiative. The goal of the initiative is to ensure that people with disabilities are fully involved in building more inclusive and welcoming communities and that their gifts and talents are recognized and valued.
As the GCDD moves into its strategic planning process for the next 5-year plan, the Real Communities Initiative will be helping to give us information, structure, tools, and a framework for organizing and building capacity through a strategic model called, “Asset Based Community Development.” This model recognizes that communities have many of the solutions to their issues if they approached it based on local assets and acknowledging the power they have to make a difference.
Please visit the “Real Communities” section of our web site to learn more.
Q. What are the REAL areas that the GCDD refers to and how is that different
from the REAL COMMUNITIES INITIATIVE?
The GCDD organized its activities and projects in their last 5-year plan (2007-2011) focusing on areas that people with disabilities said were important to their ability and the opportunities to live successfully in the community: homes, careers, learning, supports and influence. These are the REAL areas which support the REAL COMMUNITIES umbrella.
Our work in the REAL areas has included the following:
Real Careers – technical assistance in customized employment, including work around an Employment First Policy, and replication of Project Search.
Real Homes – housing coalition building, including a project called Easy Living Homes; pursuing buy-in from the Home Builder’s Association for more universal design; and promotion of visitability in home designs; seeking representation and a voice for disability advocates at the planning table for the Beltline Project; and promoting financial literacy and IDA accounts to help people become homeowners.
Real Learning – promotion of teaching self determination in high schools and middle schools; Partners Clubs; research on the special education funding formula and diploma options; facilitating student-led IEPs; development of post- secondary learning options; and attention to transition issues through a statewide transition committee
Real Influence – GCDD publications such as Making a Difference Magazine, Moving Forward Newsletter and annual reports; public policy work done through the legislative process; special events such as Disability Day at the Capitol, Discovery Day, and the annual Making a Difference Awards Ceremony; media coverage such as radio and television interviews, press conferences, newspaper coverage, media roundtables; development of DVDs; and support of selfadvocates to be leaders.
Real Supports – family support through establishment of navigator teams at the county level; development and expansion of a Direct Support Professional Certificate Program and the Georgia Alliance of Direct Support Professionals; support for Unlock the Waiting List! Campaign; and formation of the Georgia Micro-board Association.
Q. How can I subscribe to Making a Difference magazine?
Making a Difference magazine is published quarterly. It is a quality publication that addresses topics of interest to the disability community. Valerie Meadows Suber, the GCDD Public Information Director is also the Editor-In-Chief of Making A Difference magazine. You can subscribe by clicking here View our archives here.
Frequently Asked Questions About GCDD
Q. What is the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD)?
The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities (GCDD) is a federally funded independent state agency that promotes and creates opportunities to enable persons with disabilities to live, work, play and worship as an integral part of society. We accomplish this through three primary areas of focus: public policy, advocacy and program funding and implementation.
Through collaboration with citizens, policymakers, public and private advocacy organizations, we work to promote increased independence, inclusion, integration, productivity and self-determination for persons with developmental disabilities. Our efforts include public policy research, analysis, and promotion, project demonstration, education, training, and dissemination of accurate public information.
Q. What is a developmental disability?
A developmental disability is a severe, chronic, mental and/or physical disability which occurs before age 22 and is expected to last a lifetime. People with developmental disabilities will require supports in three or more of the following life activities: self-care, language, learning, mobility, self-direction, independent living and economic self-sufficiency.
Q. When was the GCDD established?
The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities is one of 55 Developmental Disabilities Councils established across the country and its territories under the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 1971 and authorized under the federal law, PL 106-402 (2000 Amendment).
Originally, and according to state legislation, GCDD was created as the “Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities.” GCDD’s name was changed in July 2009 to the “Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities,” in accordance with legislation that ordered the reorganization of the Department of Human Resources (DHR). This is the same legislation that established the new Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities. GCDD is attached to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Disabilities (DBHDD) for administrative purposes only.
Since its inception in 1971, the GCDD has been a leading resource for public information, advocacy, and public policy efforts. The Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities is leading the nation in its Real Communities Initiative to guide, support, join and build inclusive and welcoming communities across the state.
Q. Does the GCDD provide services to people with disabilities and their families?
The GCDD does not provide direct services to persons with developmental disabilities, as federal funds from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities are not allowed to be used for that purpose.
However, the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities collaborates with agencies, individuals, parents and advocates to support families and persons living with developmental disabilities by promoting good public policies and creating innovative projects. In addition, the GCDD assists individuals with disabilities and their families with sharing their stories and making sure their voices are heard.
Q. What does the GCDD do?
Our work is based on three areas of focus: public policy, advocacy and program funding and implementation. The Council and GCDD staff promotes activities and creates opportunities that enable people with developmental disabilities to exercise their rights to live, learn, work, play, and worship in the place and manner of their choice.
GCDD often uses its resources to commission research on policy issues and to fund model programs. GCDD funds projects to inform decision makers, legislators and the general public about developmental disabilities. There are many efforts made to advocate and educate the various audiences about critical issues affecting people with disabilities through publications such as Making a Difference Magazine, Moving Forward newsletter, and events such as Disability Day at the Capitol and Discovery Day.
Q. Who are members of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities
and how are they selected?
The GCDD is governed by a 27-member board, known as “The Council.” They are appointed by the Governor and comprised of at least 60 percent individuals with developmental disabilities and/or family members. Other members include policymakers that represent various agencies and organizations having
responsibilities in serving and supporting people with developmental disabilities.
For a current list of Council members and advisory members, please visit the “About” section.
The application to become a member of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities can be found in the “About” section as well. These appointments are made by the Governor and there is no set time frame for when they are made.
Q. With what organizations does the GCDD partner?
The Administration on Developmental Disabilities funds three different types of organizations in each state and territory that make up what is called the Developmental Disabilities Network. The DD Act encourages this network to collaborate. In Georgia, the DD Network Partners include:
The Georgia Advocacy Office (GAO) –A non-profit organization located in Decatur, Ga. Its mission is to work with and for oppressed and vulnerable individuals who are labeled as disabled or mentally ill to secure their protection and advocacy.
The Institute on Human Development and Disability (IHDD) – A University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities located at the University of Georgia in Athens. IHDD helps people with disabilities enhance their quality life and achieve their highest capacities.
The Center for Leadership in Disability – A University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities located at Georgia State University in Atlanta. Its mission is to translate research into sustainable community practices that contribute to independent, self-determined, inclusive and productive lives for individuals with developmental disabilities.
Q. What are examples of collaboration among the DD Network partners?
The Safe Schools Initiative is a collaboration of the Georgia Council on Developmental Disabilities, Georgia Advocacy Office, Center for Leadership in Disability, Institute on Human Development and Disability and Parent to Parent of Georgia. The ultimate goal is to shift the culture of Georgia public schools so that all students have the right to receive an appropriate education in a safe environment that enhances learning. The coalition encourages the use of positive behavior supports and works to ensure that all students shall be free of restraint and seclusion in schools. The joint effort hosted focus groups around the state, organized a press conference, produced materials that explained the proposed rule from the state Department of Education, populated a website with pertinent information, sent out action alerts to families and advocates, provided information on positive behavior supports, encouraged a letter writing campaign, and gathered stories from families related to this topic.
The Children’s Freedom Initiative has been an on-going collaboration between the DD Network partners. The goal of this effort is to get children out of state institutions or nursing homes and into permanent loving homes. The work has
included obtaining a resolution through the legislature, production of a booklet of stories, assistance in person centered planning for some of these young people, facilitation of a study tour for families and people with disabilities to see their
options.
Q. What is the GCDD’s role with public policy?
The GCDD supports legislative activities that foster good quality home and community-based supports for persons with developmental disabilities. This objective is accomplished through a variety of ways:
- Monitor and make recommendations for the state budget on home and community-based services impacting people with developmental disabilities.
- Keep legislators informed on the challenges families face in caring for their loved ones with disabilities.
- Assist families in telling their own stories to their legislators.
Q. How does the GCDD decide on its legislative agenda?
Prior to the legislative session, the GCDD invites people, organizations and agencies to submit their legislative agenda or issues that they would like the Council to consider supporting legislatively. The Deputy Director, Pat Nobbie, reviews these recommendations and prepares background information. During the October quarterly meeting, Council members are presented with the information about each issue and discuss the concerns from the disability community. Decisions on placing items on the legislative agenda are based on four criteria:
- Issues must directly or indirectly affect people with developmental disabilities or the GCDD itself.
- The issue must align with the GCDD mission, vision and values. Our organization has the knowledge and expertise to represent the issue.
- There is the capability of developing a realistic plan for how to implement the policy position, communicate the plan to the appropriate people, and make use of the position in our work.
After there is consensus on which items they want to include on the legislative agenda, the Council members rank the items in a tiered system. If the issue is something that the Council needs to take the lead on, the item is a tier1. If the issue is something the Council needs to support, but some other organization is
taking the lead, the item is a tier 2. If the issue is something the Council is willing to support by lending their name, the item is a tier 3. If the GCDD needs to remain neutral and not take a stand, the item is a tier 4. If the GCDD needs to oppose the issue, the item is a tier 5.
The legislative agenda is posted on our website following the Council’s October meeting. The agenda is a working plan that is used to guide and direct GCDD’s time and resources during the legislative session. If an unexpected issue pops up during the legislative session, the executive committee is consulted and
provides guidance on how to respond.
Q. How can I support the GCDD and its efforts to influence public policy?
The GCDD sends out a legislative newsletter every week of the session called Moving Forward. You can also advocate by calling your local legislator to share your personal story and advocate for issues on which the Council is working. You can find a comprehensive list of state and county legislators and contacts in Congress, the Senate and the House.
For more information on GCDD public policy efforts, contact Pat Nobbie, Deputy Director at pnobbie@dhr.state.ga.us .
Q. What does the GCDD do to advocate?
The GCDD hosts Disability Day at the Capitol, an annual event held every February where thousands of people from all across Georgia gather at the State Capitol for a day of advocacy on disability issues.
The GCDD leads an advocacy campaign called “Unlock the Waiting Lists!” to reduce or eliminate waiting lists for home and community-based services. As of July 2010, 5,011 people in the community are waiting for home and community- based services.
Q. What is “Unlock the Waiting Lists!”?
“Unlock the Waiting Lists!” is an advocacy campaign to reduce or eliminate waiting lists for home and community-based services for persons with disabilities. The goals are to:
- bring together stakeholders from the different disability groups throughout Georgia to work together;
- create a partnership among these individuals, families, advocates, providers, governmental leaders and agencies, and legislators to address Georgia’s challenges;
- provide a focus, with consistent and successful strategies that can be used throughout the state;
- generate media attention and public awareness to the critical needs of individuals and their families; and
- increase the allocations of funds targeted for home and community-based services.
More than 100 organizations have signed onto the campaign. You can sign up to receive action alerts by clicking here: http://www.unlockthewaitinglists.com/join.html.
Q. What kind of programs does the GCDD support?
The GCDD funds projects that promote best practices demonstrating programs, vehicles and methods to enhance the quality of life families and persons living with developmental disabilities. These projects provide information that can help educate decision makers, legislators, and the general public about developmental disabilities. The following are a few examples:
Project Search is a high school transition program that teaches student interns marketable, transferable, competitive work skills in a business setting with the end goal being employment. Project Search started in Cincinnati, Ohio and is being replicated in 36 states and 4 countries. See their website at www.projectsearch.us.
Partnerships for Success is a program designed to promote relationships between young people with developmental disabilities and their peers through leadership-building activities, recreation and social activities, community service and other shared experiences. The project teaches
self-determination and conducts person-centered and futures planning to help young people set their goals and use their voice to express what it important to them. See www.partnershipsforsuccess.com.
Academy for Inclusive Adult Education at Kennesaw State University provides an on-campus college experience for graduated high school students with intellectual disabilities. Students participate in the typical freshman orientation seminars and then audit classes of their choice. The
Project provides the necessary supports and accommodations. See www.kennesaw.edu/chhs/centers/aiae/
The Georgia Micro-boards Association was formed to provide training and ongoing assistance to small, non-profit organizations called micro-boards throughout the state, whose mission is to oversee the supports and services of one individual with a disability. See www.gamicroboards.org
Direct Support Professional Certificate Program is a curriculum that was developed and is offered through the technical colleges in Georgia. It provides both classroom instruction and hands-on learning experiences through two classes and two practicum and linkage with a learning partner (person with a disability). See www.directsupportnetwork.com
• What can the GCDD do for people with disabilities or their families? The GCDD has two ways to help fund learning opportunities or projects that improve the lives of people with disabilities:
The Partnership Fund is a GCDD resource that awards small grants (not to exceed $2500) to help individuals with disabilities and/or family members attend learning events or conferences. All awards are made as reimbursements; funds can not be made available before the event. Please note that no individual, group, or organization may receive partnership funds in successive years. Applications are available by clicking here. Completed applications should be emailed to Drelda Mackey at least 30 days before the event. Any questions may also be sent to Drelda Mackey via email at drmackey@dhr.state.ga.us . Recipients must keep their receipts for documenting their expenditures.
Innovative Grants are small, renewable grants for unique projects that help people with developmental disabilities overcome barriers to participating inclusively in aspects of life related to careers, homes, learning, supports, and influence. The ultimate outcome of Innovative Grants is to promote policies,
system change, and capacity building activities that improve the quality of life for Georgians with developmental disabilities. Applications are accepted for projects on October 1st and April 1st. Learn more about Innovative Grants here.
Q. What is the REAL COMMUNITIES Initiative?
Over the past year, the GCDD has been on a learning journey to see how to pursue and achieve its objectives by working with the broader community. This purposeful learning has helped us establish the REAL COMMUNITIES Initiative. The goal of the initiative is to ensure that people with disabilities are fully involved in building more inclusive and welcoming communities and that their gifts and talents are recognized and valued.
As the GCDD moves into its strategic planning process for the next 5-year plan, the Real Communities Initiative will be helping to give us information, structure, tools, and a framework for organizing and building capacity through a strategic model called, “Asset Based Community Development.” This model recognizes that communities have many of the solutions to their issues if they approached it based on local assets and acknowledging the power they have to make a difference.
Please visit the “Real Communities” section of our web site to learn more.
Q. What are the REAL areas that the GCDD refers to and how is that different
from the REAL COMMUNITIES INITIATIVE?
The GCDD organized its activities and projects in their last 5-year plan (2007-2011) focusing on areas that people with disabilities said were important to their ability and the opportunities to live successfully in the community: homes, careers, learning, supports and influence. These are the REAL areas which support the REAL COMMUNITIES umbrella.
Our work in the REAL areas has included the following:
Real Careers – technical assistance in customized employment, including work around an Employment First Policy, and replication of Project Search.
Real Homes – housing coalition building, including a project called Easy Living Homes; pursuing buy-in from the Home Builder’s Association for more universal design; and promotion of visitability in home designs; seeking representation and a voice for disability advocates at the planning table for the Beltline Project; and promoting financial literacy and IDA accounts to help people become homeowners.
Real Learning – promotion of teaching self determination in high schools and middle schools; Partners Clubs; research on the special education funding formula and diploma options; facilitating student-led IEPs; development of post- secondary learning options; and attention to transition issues through a statewide transition committee
Real Influence – GCDD publications such as Making a Difference Magazine, Moving Forward Newsletter and annual reports; public policy work done through the legislative process; special events such as Disability Day at the Capitol, Discovery Day, and the annual Making a Difference Awards Ceremony; media coverage such as radio and television interviews, press conferences, newspaper coverage, media roundtables; development of DVDs; and support of selfadvocates to be leaders.
Real Supports – family support through establishment of navigator teams at the county level; development and expansion of a Direct Support Professional Certificate Program and the Georgia Alliance of Direct Support Professionals; support for Unlock the Waiting List! Campaign; and formation of the Georgia Micro-board Association.
Q. How can I subscribe to Making a Difference magazine?
Making a Difference magazine is published quarterly. It is a quality publication that addresses topics of interest to the disability community. Valerie Meadows Suber, the GCDD Public Information Director is also the Editor-In-Chief of Making A Difference magazine. You can subscribe by clicking here View our archives here.
