[Congressional Record Volume 148, Number 53 (Thursday, May 2, 2002)]
[Senate]
[Page S3841]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




      MARYLAND DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES COUNCIL 30TH ANNIVERSARY

 Mr. SARBANES. Mr. President, I rise to recognize and 
congratulate the Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council as it 
celebrates its 30th anniversary. An organization composed of 
individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, 
representatives of principle State agencies, and representatives of 
private non-profit organizations, the Maryland Developmental 
Disabilities Council has been at the cutting edge of national 
disability policy.
  The Council's many achievements stem from an unwavering commitment to 
the inclusion of all people with developmental disabilities in 
community life. The Council has worked diligently to promote self 
determination so that people with disabilities and their families are 
able to make decisions that impact their lives and are fully involved 
in the implementation of services and the support they receive in the 
community. I am pleased that this decade has seen the expansion of 
family support, which enables families to stay together and assists in 
meeting their unique needs. The strong leadership of the Council has 
brought about more opportunities and greater empowerment for people 
with disabilities and their families in Maryland.
  Many Council initiatives and partnerships for the developmentally 
disabled have proven successful, including efforts to expand 
availability and accessibility of public transportation and 
homeownership, advocacy for children with developmental disabilities to 
be educated in the least restrictive environment in their neighborhood 
schools, access to assistive technology, and the creation of 
partnerships between special education personnel, service providers, 
students, families, and schools. Supported employment programs assure 
that people with disabilities have real work of their choice and 
receive the support they need to succeed. Since it's beginning, the 
Council has worked with many other Maryland organizations and 
government agencies to implement successful and innovative initiatives 
effecting systemic change and improved public policies.
  As the Council celebrates its 30th anniversary, I want to again 
recognize its dedicated members for their tireless commitment. The 
Maryland Developmental Disabilities Council plays a central role in 
many critical initiatives and will continue to be at the forefront of 
efforts to encourage community inclusion and support of all 
citizens.

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