Position Title:             DD Council Member Purpose:  To represent persons with developmental disabilities and the community at large in addressing rights,  responsibilities, and needs of people with disabilities in order to carry out the  functions of the Council. Responsibilities:  Attend Council orientation Become familiar with PL 106-402; the Developmental Disabilities Act; the MD DDC State Plan; federal and state legislative agendas; the DDC manual and Council policies; mission statement and Council goals. Represent the Council's position, attitudes, and concerns to consumers and the general public. Act as an interface with local community, consumer organizations, service providers, and public officials Prepare for and attend council and committee meetings/retreat; complete necessary preparation and follow-up. Actively serve on Council, committee, and task forces. Participate in the Council's planning processes. Provide information about local issues, concerns, and programs to the Council. Provide information about developmental disabilities issues; interpret federal and state policies, programs and budgets to the public. Commit to serving a term of appointment, usually five years Other activities as related to Council functions. Qualifications Knowledge of developmental disabilities issues. Interest in and willingness to serve on the Council. Commitment of 3-5 hours per month to Council activities (usually no more than one meeting every other  month, plus committee meetings and reading) Ability to express concerns and convictions with the necessary degree of flexibility. Ability to work cooperatively with others. Ability to negotiate Council positions. Ability to place interest of the Council above personal or factional concerns. Maintain a commitment to the Council and its mandate.