About DDS: The Role of DDS Provider Agencies

In order to provide a broad array of services to families throughout the state, DDS contracts with qualified provider agencies to deliver services to families. This includes all of the family-support programs and services described in this guide. An example of this would be when DDS funds a family-support center.

In this example, a family might know their family- support center by the name of the provider agency, and may not always recognize that they are receiving services that are funded by DDS. DDS works closely with its provider agencies to ensure that families are receiving quality services. In addition, family-support provider agencies communicate regularly with DDS service coordinators about their work with individuals and families.

Language Access

DDS is committed to ensuring that all individuals and families can access services, programs, and activities. For individuals and families for whom English is not their primary language, DDS has developed a Language Access Plan that applies to all DDS offices and service providers. Please let your DDS and family-support staff know about your preferred language for telephone calls, meetings, and written documents.

If your family’s primary language is not English, the following services are available to you:

• Telephone Interpretation is arranged by DDS staff and/or family-support-center staff to communicate with in the preferred language of families and individuals.
• In Person Interpretation DDS and Family Support Centers work with qualified agencies to provide in- person interpretation, including American Sign Language, at meetings with families.
• Translation of written documents into multiple languages is routinely provided by DDS and posted on our website. You can let your DDS service coordinator or family-support staff person know if you need any document translated into your preferred language.