A man using a wheelchair and a woman smile at an iPad screen

Performance Based Contracting Webinar for Individuals and Families

Thursday, January 30, 202512:00 PM – 1:00 PM The Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) would like to invite you to the Performance Based Contracts Webinar for Individuals and Families. This webinar will provide individuals and families with a general overview of how the Office of Developmental Programs (ODP) proposes to implement Performance-Based

Move Your Way logo

Move Your Way® 2024 Recap

ODP launched the Move Your Way® campaign one year ago at the 2024 Everyday Lives Conference. In the past year, you have shared your unique health and wellness routines and we have gathered some amazing stories! As we move into 2025 ready to keep our bodies moving, we wanted to take a

PADDC Logo

PA Developmental Disabilities Council 5-year Plan Survey

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

The communication corner logo with mazes inside two heads silhouettes

Communication Corner – Communicating in Times of Stress

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

A nuclear family runs through the snow. Dad pulls the son in a sled while mom and daughter trail behind

Move Your Way® This Winter!

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

The communication corner logo with mazes inside two heads silhouettes

Communication Corner – December is National Learn a Foreign Language Month

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

Portrait of Secretary Dr. Val Arkoosh

Multi-Year Program Growth Strategy Forum with Secretary Val Arkoosh [WATCH]

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

Three children with notebooks in their laps high five two teachers sitting in front of them

PADDC Spotlight – Inclusive Schools & Special Education

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

A woman using a wheelchair is bundled up in a coat and smiling at her twelve year old daughter who is wearing a knitted cap while laughing

Supporting Families in Winter

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

Search