MDDC Mission Statement

The mission of the Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council (MDDC) is to provide opportunities for people with developmental disabilities and their families to enhance independence, productivity, and inclusion. It is the Council's belief that the greatest impact on public policy occurs through self-advocacy, supported by the development and maintenance of strong coalitions. We work to bring people with developmental disabilities and their families together with policy makers to advocate on their own behalf. The Council fosters and supports coalitions with other advocacy and community groups, and supports close working relationships among and between the various public and private service providers.

What is a Developmental Disability?

Although the exact number is unknown, it is estimated that over 108,000 Massachusetts residents have a developmental disability.

A "developmental disability," as defined in federal law, is a severe,chronic, often lifelong disability that causes substantial limitations in several major life activities such as: self care, receptive and expressive language, learning, mobility, self-direction, the capacity for independent living, and economic self-sufficiency. It is attributable to a mental, emotional, sensory, and/or physical impairment that is apparent before the age of twenty-two. People with developmental disabilities often need a combination of special services, support, and other assistance that is likely to continue indefinitely. People with developmental disabilities constitute the most severely under-served population in the Commonwealth.