Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities (KUCDD)

The Kansas University Center on Developmental Disabilities (KUCDD) has a rich history of research, model and policy development, outreach, training, technical assistance, and advocacy on behalf of people with DD and their families. KUCDD has been effective for more than 45 years because of strong, nationally visible leadership, strong university and state support and collaborations, and a strong network of PIs and researchers. This proposal outlines a comprehensive 5-year plan to achieve the AIDD mission for UCEDDs, with goals, objectives, and targets identified for each core function across multiple areas of emphasis. The KUCDD will achieve these goals because of the opportunities for collaboration within KU and the Kansas DD Network. The proposal describes the involvement of the Consumer Advisory Panel and the KUCDD commitment to consumer-directed and controlled services and supports; promoting and enhancing self-determination and self-advocacy; supporting families and promoting a better quality of life for individuals and families; linking technology to people who can use it; promoting inclusive schools and communities; providing high-quality health supports; providing interprofessional training for workers in the field and graduate students; and conducting high quality research. The KUCDD project evaluation is comprehensive, based on a logic model, and focused on multiple levels on ensuring consumer satisfaction. KUCDD has been and will continue to be responsive to the needs identified in the state by primary stakeholders in the DD system, and it is from this grassroots focus that the next 5-year plan of action has been developed.