Every five years the Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council (PADDC) is required to develop a State Plan to help guide the work of the Council. The process of creating the next 5-year plan requires PADDC to gather information on the current barriers and concerns in Pennsylvania for those with developmental disabilities and their
CommunicationFIRST* recently published a resource on communicating in times of stress. “In moments of intense stress—when speaking up and being heard may be more important than ever—some people may lose the ability to communicate in the ways they usually do.” Check out this resource at https://communicationfirst.org/communicating-in-times-of-stress/ *CommunicationFIRST is an organization dedicated to
With shorter days and colder temperatures, many people struggle to maintain their motivation for physical activity. Yet, staying active is important in spring, summer, fall, and yes, winter. This time of year also presents an opportunity to participate in activities that are unique to the season. Seasonal Physical and Mental Benefits Adults
Spend time with others who speak another language. Take a class. Download a free foreign language application. Pick up a book from the library about the language you are interested in. Happy Holidays! Felices Fiestas! Jiérì kuàilè! 节日快乐！ Buone Vacanze! uṭalun saʿīdah! عطل سعيدة! Happy Holidays in American Sign Langauge video link
On Tuesday, December 3rd, 2024, Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Secretary Val Arkoosh joined ODP providers and professionals for its Multi-Year Program Growth Strategy Forum. Secretary Arkoosh addressed the audience to reiterate Governor Shapiro's strategy for eventually ending the waiting list for services. At DHS, our mission is to help all Pennsylvanians
The Pennsylvania Developmental Disabilities Council (PADDC) is celebrating Inclusive Schools Week by highlighting programs, activities, and resources that strengthen inclusive education. Inclusive Schools Week, December 2 through 6, 2024, celebrates the progress that schools have made in providing a supportive and quality education to an increasingly diverse student population, including students who
All Pennsylvanians experience challenges during the winter as the cold temperatures, snow and ice affect our daily lives and activities. Families with a loved one with a disability often have even more concerns from the change in season. The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) Supporting Families Leadership Team used the Integrated Supports
The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) is pleased to announce that Jenn Newell joined ODP as the Director of the Bureau of Financial Management and Program Support. Jenn Newell has built a career in public service, with nearly 25 years in various roles focused on supporting individuals with substance use disorders. She
For November’s Move Your Way® spotlight, The Office of Developmental Programs visited SPIN in Philadelphia to take a peek at their fitness program. SPIN is a provider agency that also contains a community fitness facility called SPIN Community & Fitness. Click the video above to take a look at SPIN's fitness programs.
Diabetes is a complex disease that is challenging to manage on a daily basis. Did you know that persons with an intellectual or developmental disability are estimated to be 2-3 times more likely to develop diabetes compared to the general population? Some tools for communicating about diabetes management may include: “Easy read”
