Defining and Measuring Systems Change for State and Territorial Councils on Developmental Disabilities:
A Concept Paper with Embedded Recommendations
The 2000 reauthorization of the federal Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (DD Act) directs State Developmental Disabilities Councils (DDC) to engage in advocacy, capacity building and systemic change activities that contribute to a coordinated, consumer- and family-centered, consumer- and family-directed, comprehensive system that includes community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. [Section 101(b)]. The key DD Act goals for
Councils are to advance independence, productivity and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities. These broad and vital mandates form the core of what Councils seek to do, and why their work is so important.