Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council
Membership Opportunities
The Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council seeks motivated individuals to join our work for communities that include and support everyone.
- Are you are interested in making Maryland’s communities more inclusive and supportive for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families?
- Are you interested in making systemic changes to Maryland’s service delivery systems and affecting housing, employment, education, health care, child care, support services, transportation, and other issues?
- Do you value self-determination and self-advocacy?
If so, then you may want to apply to be a Coucil member. Please read the job description below and choose a link under "How do I apply?"
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council Member job description, click here
"How do I apply?"
To apply on-line and submit an application electronically, click here
To download an application and mail or fax it to the Council, click here
Self advocates and immediate family members of people with developmental disabilities are encouraged to apply. The Council will actively be processing membership applications in 2009.
For more information about the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council or about how to apply for membership please contact:
Angela Castillo-Epps or call 410-767-2914 or 1-800-305-6441 ext. 4
What is the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council?
The Council is a public policy and advocacy organization that works to positively affect programs, policies and practices of importance to people with developmental disabilities and their families.
The Council advocates for public policy and supportive practices and opportunities that promote the full inclusion of all people with developmental disabilities in community life.
Council projects promote activities in the areas of: employment, education and early intervention, child care, transportation, community supports, recreation, housing, health, and quality assurance.
Council members and staff collaborate with other organizations, advocate with legislators and other policy makers, and determine funding for demonstration projects and innovative projects.
Who makes up the Council?
There are approximately 30 Council Members and four full-time and two part-time staff.
Members are selected by the Council and appointed by the Governor for five-year terms.
Members may serve on the Council for a total of two terms.
60% of Council Members are people with developmental disabilities or family members of people with developmental disabilities.
Other Council members include representatives from state agencies (e.g. Maryland State Department of Education, Department of Rehabilitation Services, and the Developmental Disabilities Administration) service providers, the Protection and Advocacy System (Maryland Disability Law Center) and the University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (Kennedy Krieger).
What is involved with Membership?
The full Council meets in Columbia, MD four times per year in addition to an annual retreat. Meetings are held on a weekday evening, beginning at 4:00 pm.
All members also serve on a standing committee. There are also several ad hoc committees open to members depending on their interest and availability. The standing committees meet on variable schedules (during the day, in the evening, or by teleconference) about four times per year.
You should be able to make a time commitment of 2-3 hours per month (times vary);
The Council reimburses for transportation and other expenses related to your work as a Council member. Childcare can also be reimbursed.
