The Challenge
People with disabilities depend on community-based services that support independence, employment, and full participation in community life. Ensuring these services remain responsive to changing needs requires ongoing collaboration among stakeholders and informed decision-making by state leaders.
Action
The Council leads Pennsylvania’s Disability Budget Coalition, a partnership of self-advocates, families, service providers, and disability organizations. The Council facilitates regular meetings, coordinates information sharing, identifies emerging issues, and helps stakeholders develop a shared understanding of service needs, workforce challenges, and opportunities to improve outcomes for people with disabilities.
Results
Coalition members provided information, data, and stakeholder perspectives that helped inform state budget discussions and planning. Subsequent investments included increased funding for intellectual disability services, a $5 million increase for vocational rehabilitation, and $21 million to strengthen the direct-support workforce. These investments support community-based services, strengthen workforce capacity, and expand opportunities for people with disabilities to live, work, and participate in their communities.
Unique Role of the Council
The Council serves as a statewide leader and strategic partner, coordinating diverse stakeholders around shared priorities and evidence-informed solutions. Through its leadership, the Council helps strengthen service systems, support workforce development, and improve opportunities for people with disabilities to live, work, and participate fully in their communities.