I read with interest Francie Pearson’s June 10 letter regarding funding for programs for people with developmental disabilities. Local groups and state agencies such as the Illinois Planning Council on Developmental Disabilities (IPCDD) are dedicated to providing support, educating the community, and promoting the independence and inclusion of people with developmental disabilities in all areas of life. Through its grantees, the IPCDD attempts to create solutions to the problems and ease the frustrations faced by Ms. Pearson and other families.
An IPCDD grantee was part of the coalition of organizations that proposed the $50 million increase in the state budget for programs to benefit people with developmental disabilities, which Ms. Pearson mentioned in her letter.. The IPCDD shares Ms. Pearson’s experiences. At least half of IPCDD members are people with developmental disabilities or their relatives; other members include representatives from local agencies, non-governmental agencies and private, non-profit groups.
Although there could always be more money allocated for the programs we support, we commend Gov. George Ryan for his $29 million package for services needed and strive to make sure that this funding continues. For more than 25 years, the IPCDD has awarded grants to organizations to assure that people with developmental disabilities have a part in the design of and access to culturally competent services, supports and other assistance and opportunities that promote productivity and integration into the community. Some of the programs we support include job training, a home ownership initiative that demonstrates that people with developmental disabilities can be successful home owners and taxpayers, and other resources that support people with developmental disabilities and their families.
Many people with developmental disabilities finish school and become workers, taxpayers and contributing members of families and communities. Neighbors can help by getting involved in activities that help people with disabilities become valuable members of the community. By promoting systematic change, capacity-building and advocacy, the IPCDD and its grantees will continue to value people and invest in success.
