DC Department of Disability Services

1125 15th Street NW
Washington, DC 20005
Phone: (202) 730-1700
Metro: McPherson Square
http://www.dds.dc.gov/dds/

RCM of Washington, Inc.
900 2nd St NE # 8,
Washington, DC 20002-3560
Phone: 202-789-1930
Metro: Union Station
http://www.rcmofwashington.com

Students with an interest in this population, or who have experience working with them, or have participated in Best Buddies and/or Special Olympics are especially encouraged to join this new team.

Expectations of Team Members:
Team members are expected to attend and actively participate in ISCOPES' team meetings, functions, and program events, as well as be committed to the team's projects, team process, and curriculum. Our role with the Department of Disability Services and PSI will evolve throughout the year. However, we anticipate that students should be prepared to participate in at least one group home and/or day program observation, as well as co-facilitate one health session per semester. These activities are part of the 6-8 hours per month expectation of ISCOPES

Past Projects:
This is a brand new team starting in September 2009.

Site Description:
DDA
The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) is responsible for the oversight and coordination of all services and supports provided to all qualified persons with developmental disabilities in the District of Columbia. 
 
Developmental disabilities include mental retardation, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, autism and other impairments of the brain that occur during childhood. Some people with developmental disabilities also have significant medical or mental health needs.
 
The District of Columbia was one of the first in the nation to close its large institution, Forest Haven, and individuals with developmental disabilities are now living full and active lives throughout the District and in neighboring communities. DDA and its providers offer training and support to help people with developmental disabilities gain employment, start a business, volunteer, attend senior citizens programs or receive support throughout the day.  Adults are supported throughout the community in homes and apartments, and for families supporting a loved one at home, DDA also provides temporary relief for the family, in-home and community support, emergency response systems, and home and vehicle modification assistance. 
 
DDA strives to maximize the quality of life for our citizens who have a developmental disability.  Our website will be adding information regarding applying for services, how to find qualified providers and other key resources and information on a regular basis.

RCM
For over ten years, RCM of Washington's promise for each person they support is to provide a positive pathway toward empowering independence, with an emphasis on integration into the community - or, "Reclaiming Community Membership." RCM provides guidance in all aspects of living, working, and learning.

Through in-home support, training and education, RCM helps people live in their communities either in group home settings or there own homes and apartments. This allows some of our people to choose the structure of group activities, or for the first time, to choose their own ways of integrating into their own communities by creating their own schedules and developing friendships.