The Delaware Division of Developmental Disabilities Services (DDDS) helps children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities thrive at home—and in the community—through an extensive network of services and resources, including:
- Assistive technologies
- Caregiver Respite
- Day and residential programs
- Employment and pre-vocational services
- Support coordination and community navigation
- Supported living options
We recognize the challenges that individuals and families face, and we value each person’s right to live, love, work, play and pursue their dreams and life goals in their community. DDDS will help you develop an individualized plan that addresses needs and supports goals through every aspect of daily life, including family, work, health, community and recreation. DDDS services are voluntary for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria.
DDDS Services by Age
3-9 years
Provisional DDDS eligibility-targeted case management and State-funded respite or new Medicaid pediatric respite benefit
10-17 years
Full DDDS eligibility-targeted case management, State-funded respite or new pediatric respite benefit, and Pathways to Employment (ages 14 and up)
18 years and adult
Targeted case management, state-funded respite, or new pediatric respite benefit, Lifespan Waiver or long-term services and supports respite, Pathways to Employment, and all other available home and community-based services
How are services provided?
DDDS delivers services through an Authorized Provider Network of agencies and organizations. Funding is through the Medicaid Home and Community-Based service waivers.
Lifespan Waiver
The Lifespan Waiver, a §1915 (c) Home and Community-Based Medicaid Waiver, is one funding source for DDDS services. The Lifespan Waiver offers an array of supports and services designed to support individuals as they age through their lifespan.
Diamond State Health Plan Plus
Individuals may also receive DDDS services through the Diamond State Health Plan Plus (DSHP+), a 1115 Medicaid Waiver (sometimes referred to as a Long-Term Services and Supports or LTSS waiver).
Pathways to Employment
The Pathways to Employment Medicaid program offers a range of services through an Authorized Provider Network to support eligible individuals as they get and keep competitive employment.
How do I apply for services or find out if I qualify?
To apply for services or to determine if you may qualify, please contact our Office of Applicant Services by calling (302)744-9700 or you can download an application and instructions on applying. Applications to DDDS can be submitted as early as age 3 and it is never too late to apply. DDDS services are voluntary for individuals who meet the eligibility criteria.
DDDS Advisory Council
The Advisory Council to the Division of Developmental Disabilities advises and provides feedback on matters relating to those diagnosed with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Members
| Name | Position |
|---|---|
| Jody A. Roberts, Ph.D. | Division Director |
| Jean Virdin | Executive Secretary |
| Terri Hancharick | Chairperson |
| Emmanuel Jenkins | Vice Chairperson |
| Marissa Band | Member |
| Cathy Cowin | Member |
| Devon Dant | Member |
| Susannah Eaton-Ryan | Member |
| Brandt Emory | Member |
| Brian Hall, MSW | Member |
| Beth Mineo | Member |
| Gregory Richardson | Member |
| Thomas Rust | Member |
| Haley Shiber | Member |
| Benjamin Shrader | Member |
| Vivian J. Turner, MPA | Member |
| Jennifer Tymes | Member |
Mission
Valuing persons with intellectual and developmental disabilities, honoring abilities, respecting choice, achieving possibilities….. working together to support healthy, safe and fulfilling lives.
Vision
The people we serve live fulfilling lives.
Beliefs and Guiding Principles
We believe…
- in a person’s right to a lifestyle of choice and self-determination.
- in a person’s individuality. Each person has unique qualities which we recognize and value.
- people with disabilities have the same rights as other citizens.
- people with disabilities are an integral part of their community. We believe a person with disabilities, and the community, both benefit when they engage each other.
- in a community where persons with disabilities feel included and can participate as they desire.
- in the right of all people to be treated with dignity and respect.
Guiding Principle
- Services shall empower and support personal decision-making.
- Services shall be person-centered; supporting each person to explore, assert their own individuality.
- Services shall protect people’s rights, and support people to exercise their rights.
- Services shall support people to have meaningful roles in the community.
- Services shall work to build the capacity of the community to accept and socially nourish people with disabilities.
- Service recipients shall feel that they are a valued member of the team. Service supports shall be delivered in a manner that recognizes each person’s humanity.
