To all DDS Stakeholders:
The Department of Developmental Services (DDS) is committed to keeping all stakeholders informed of the work the agency is doing to advance our mission and vision through upcoming community forums in October.
I invite you to join me and Deputy Commissioner Elisa Velardo for the Commissioner's Annual Update community forums in October. The virtual forums will be recorded, and each will follow the same format and agenda. The forums will be hosted across two days at four different times to accommodate everyone’s busy schedules. Please see the schedule and links to join for these forums below.
- Tuesday, October 10th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
- Wednesday, October 11th from 9:00 - 11:00 AM
- Tuesday, October 17th from 6:00 - 8:00 PM
- Wednesday, October 18th from 9:00 - 11:00 AM
Thank you for attending our previous STEP forums in May and connecting with your Case Managers and support teams to learn more about STEP. Your opinions and feedback are what matter most in how we shape our agency’s path forward. I hope you’ll join these October forums to connect with DDS leadership and Region leadership to ask questions, share your concerns and offer feedback.
I encourage all individuals eligible for DDS services and their families to take the next STEP and start talking with their provider staff and case managers about these core supports that can promote and enhance independence. Any changes to your current supports will be made carefully and with a detailed transition plan.
STEP's core support options:
- Self-Direction
- Community Companion Home (CCH)
- Supportive Housing
- Individualized Home Support (IHS)
- Assistive Technology
- Remote Support
- Employment
During these October forums and throughout the remainder of the year, I look forward to sharing more news and details about this important work we are doing to help individuals and families DDS serves have greater independence, freedom of choice, and more opportunities to be valued members of their communities.
Sincerely,
Jordan Scheff
DDS Commissioner
