Abstract
This manuscript emphasizes the critical importance of having a Disability Network of services—including University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDDs), State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, and Protection & Advocacy organizations - in promoting systemic innovation and improved outcomes for individuals with developmental disabilities. Highlighting a case study from West Virginia, where collaboration between West Virginia University’s Center for Excellence in Disabilities, Disability Rights of West Virginia, and the West Virginia Developmental Disabilities Council has resulted in cost-effective, sustainable improvements, this paper underscores the urgent need to protect and expand these programs amidst current policy threats. The evidence underscores that investment in the DD Network yields significant societal and economic benefits, and strategic partnerships exemplify its transformative potential.
Plain Language Summary
This paper shows why a Disability Network is important. It connects various services. These services include University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, and Protection & Advocacy groups. They team up to discover new solutions. They support people with developmental disabilities. In West Virginia, a success story unfolds. Network efforts led to improved results and saved costs. The paper points out the need to save and strengthen these programs. This is vital since certain policies may jeopardize their future. Investing in the DD Network helps society and boosts the economy. Working together, these groups can make a significant impact.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial-Share Alike 4.0 License.
Recommended Citation
Cottrell, Lesley; Given, Susan; and Wiseman, Christina E.
(2026)
"The Indispensable Role of the Sister Disability Agencies: Safeguarding Progress and Enhancing Outcomes through Collaboration,"
Developmental Disabilities Network Journal: Vol. 5:
Iss.
2, Article 6.
DOI: 10.59620/2694-1104.1145
Available at:
https://digitalcommons.usu.edu/ddnj/vol5/iss2/6
Included in
Accessibility Commons, Developmental Psychology Commons, Development Studies Commons, Disability Law Commons, Disability Studies Commons, Early Childhood Education Commons, Educational Assessment, Evaluation, and Research Commons, Family and Consumer Sciences Commons, Other Social and Behavioral Sciences Commons, Personality and Social Contexts Commons, Social Justice Commons, Social Policy Commons, Social Work Commons
