The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) at Kennedy Krieger Institute Professional Development and Continuing Education Program is dedicated to fostering advocacy efforts that promote awareness and decrease the stigma connected to intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and mental health conditions.

Joined hands in a circle, symbolizing team work.

2025 Faith Community Learning Collaborative Conference for Maryland Faith Leaders

Partnership with Purpose: Advancing Disability Inclusion

On Thursday, June 26, join faith leaders from different faith traditions in a unified effort that champions disability inclusion. Through collective learning and shared vision, this conference will help participants lead transformative change that promotes disability inclusion, health, and well-being of people with disabilities and their families within Maryland faith communities.

Learn More Register

MCDD is committed to promoting inclusive practice and expanding faith community leaders knowledge and skills in creating belonging and a positive social atmosphere of understanding of the needs and strengths of people with disabilities and their families. The social environment of a faith community can promote social relationships, independence and meaningful community participation for people with disabilities. Sustained interpersonal contact can reduce the experience of being stigmatized and improve community members attitudes toward people with disabilities and mental health conditions. MCDD’s Disability, Mental Health and Inclusive Faith Support Training Collaborative Projects are guided by a goal to improve the quality of life and overall well-being of people with disabilities and their families. Please see below for our current projects, trainings, and resource guides for support and more information.

Training and Activities