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The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) is aware that these are challenging times for everyone. I hope that you and our entire community of readers are staying safe and healthy.
The Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities (MCDD) is aware that these are challenging times for everyone. I hope that you and our entire community of readers are staying safe and healthy. Our offices may be closed due to the COVID-19 pandemic, but be assured that all MCDD members are working tirelessly to help self-advocates, parents, family members and anyone in the community find the resources they may need. Now more than ever, it is crucial to continue to advocate for the rights of people with intellectual, developmental and other disabilities.
To that end, be sure to read about the grant that the MCDD and seven other organizations across the country received to work together to lay the groundwork for a national Center for Dignity in Healthcare for People with Disabilities (CDHPD). This center will be the first of its kind in the country. The article contains links to some new, vital resources related to the COVID-19 pandemic.
I am thrilled to report that our staff is growing by leaps and bounds! Last year, five members from the former Interactive Autism Network at Kennedy Krieger Institute joined our team. In this newsletter, you will learn about our new staff members Tracy Waller and Eve Lukowski, volunteer Lisa Banks, and Project SEARCH intern Cole Slusher.
This edition of our newsletter is full of information on the MCDD’s work, plus resources to help you navigate this unprecedented period in our lives. I am inspired every day by the people I meet while serving as director of the Maryland Center for Developmental Disabilities. Please stay safe and healthy.
In gratitude,
Maureen van Stone
Director, Maryland Center of Developmental Disabilities
Director, Project HEAL
