Becoming a Member:

The Massachusetts Developmental Disabilities Council is looking for good advocates. The Developmental Disabilities Act (DD Act) requires that Council Members be appointed by the Governor and include individuals with developmental disabilities, family members, relatives or guardians, providers and advocates.   At least 60 percent of the membership must be individuals with developmental disabilities and family members.  

The Governor appoints all citizen members, usually to three year terms and members are limited to no more than two terms.   Our member terms are set up on a rotating basis. Every Fall the Council expects 2 - 3 vacancies to occur. The Council provides recommendations for citizen appointments to the Governor, and considers a number of factors, including the DD Act requirements, racial and ethnic diversity, geographic representation, and potential members areas of interest and/or expertise.  

Members must attend all Council meetings (held 4 times per year) and actively participate in at least one activity related to the Council’s State Plan objectives.   The average time commitment is 65 hours per year.

What will you gain by becoming a Member?

• Representing the Council on external committees, task forces and advisory groups.
• Attending or speaking at conferences, legislative hearings, public policy forums and related formal gatherings.
• Sharing with the Council your experiences, resources, ideas, contacts and concerns regarding matters affecting people with developmental disabilities.
• Meeting and networking with other advocates.
• Advocating for developmental disabilities issues to public policy makers and legislators at the state and federal levels.
• Keeping informed of disability policy issues.
• Improving your knowledge of disability issues and improving your advocacy skills.
• Serving as a resource to your family, friends and community.

If you are interested in Council membership, please select our Membership Application (MS Word - 74K). Also, please read the council bylaws, available online.

Complete the application and forward it in care of Adelia DelTrecco.

Mail:

MA Developmental Disabilities Council
1150 Hancock Street, Third Floor, Suite 300
Quincy, MA 02169

Facsimile:         617-770-1987
Email:               Adelia.DelTrecco@state.ma.us