The Governor’s Council on Developmental Disabilities promotes integration, inclusion and independence for Arkansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). We do so by identifying the most pressing needs of the IDD community in our state and addressing those needs by conducting outreach, fostering change and supporting capacity-building efforts. The Council works to improve the independence and productivity of Arkansans with intellectual and developmental disabilities and to ensure their integration into the community. Key activities include: • Increasing and strengthening self-advocacy participation across the state • Supporting programs to identify and remove barriers to information, services and support • Advocating for policy changes to increase competitive, integrated employment • Developing and supporting coalitions • Encouraging advocacy to keep policymakers informed about disability issues The Council consists of 23 members, appointed by the Governor. Members include: • Individuals with developmental disabilities • Family members of individuals with developmental disabilities • Directors of state agencies that serve people with disabilities • Representatives from nonprofit and private organizations that provide services and support for people with disabilities
