Oklahoma is Creating an Inclusive Employment Future for Individuals with Developmental Disabilities Lets Have This Conversation

"The integration of hope is fueled by the promise of
opportunities. It provides us all with a vehicle of aspiration and attainment.
I want to draw your attention to the number 6.5 million. It’s the estimated
total of people in the United States living with a developmental and
intellectual disability, according to the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention. It's important that these individuals live a valued, respected, and
prosperous life, particularly from an employment standpoint. The Oklahoma
Department of Developmental Disabilities Services, through the Department of
Human Services, is on a mission to help individuals with developmental
disabilities and their families lead safer, healthier, more independent, and
productive lives.

 

Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) serves individuals
ages 3 and up who have a primary diagnosis of intellectual disabilities.
Persons served may also have other developmental disabilities in addition to
intellectual disabilities, such as autism, cerebral palsy, Down syndrome, etc.
Recently, they’ve placed an inclusive and increased emphasis on providing
equitable, fair employment opportunities for the individuals they serve, which
will hopefully put them on the path to full independence and dignity within
society as contributing members. Ryan Stewart, the department’s manager of
communications, met with me this week to discuss how the state of Oklahoma is
leading the way and setting the example for others to follow when it comes to
fully integrating individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities
within the workforce and society at large.

 

Email: TellDDS@okdhs.org"