{Commissioner Peter H. O}

Governor M. Jodi Rell and DDS Commissioner Peter H. O'Meara

 

Welcome to the Connecticut Department of Developmental Services (DDS). Our department serves over 19,000 individuals with developmental disabilities, including over 4,000 in the Birth to Three program for infants and toddlers.  Over the years we have had a strong commitment from Governor M. Jodi Rell and the State of Connecticut General Assembly.  This year the agency’s budget is close to reaching $1 billion.

 

One of the highlights of the agency over the past year is the changing of our name from the Department of Mental Retardation (DMR) to the Department of Developmental Services (DDS). After a year-long study and input from advocates, families, consumers and staff, the General Assembly voted unanimously and Governor Rell signed into law the changing of our name which preserves the dignity and respect of the people we serve.

 

Connecticut has become a leader nationwide in our Self Directed Supports and together with the General Assembly, has instituted a new Autism Pilot program. We have enhanced our Waiver Services and generated over $3.5 billion federal reimbursement in the past 12 years.

 

Our Emergency Management Plan, which focuses on the needs of people with disabilities during an emergency, has been recognized nationally by the Federal Emergency Management Agency and has become a template for many other states in their emergency planning process.

 

Here in Connecticut, we have partnered with over 150 private provider agencies to provide services in all areas of care, from residential and day supports to intense medical care. Our partnerships with other Connecticut state agencies such as the Department of Children’s and Families enables us to serve some of the population's most vulnerable citizens, our children.

 

DDS employs over 4,500 staff to manage 90 community living arrangements, several regional campuses and 11 respite centers. In Connecticut, our respite services have become a valuable asset to the families we serve. For those who care for their loved ones at home, the centers scattered throughout the state provide a much needed rest from day-to-day care giving.

 

Connecticut DDS is only one of a few state agencies that have embarked on an E-Learning initiative. E-Learning enables our employees and private provider employees to be trained in the same manner, ensuring the greatest protection for the consumers we serve.

 

We have a long-standing relationship with the Connecticut Department of Public Safety. A State Police Captain directs a staff of former law enforcement officers and DDS program experts who investigate allegations of abuse and neglect. In addition, an Abuse and Neglect Registry ensures that our consumers are protected.

 

As we move forward, we continue to enhance the programs and services we provide, develop new initiatives that have an impact on the way we provide these services and finally, stand true to our mission of serving individuals with the dignity and respect they deserve.