Your elected officials need to hear directly from YOU so they can understand how Michigan's DD Network has had an impact on your life.
Understanding Michigan's DD Network
Three vital organizations form the backbone of disability advocacy, empowerment, and community inclusion in our state: The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (MiDDC), Disability Rights Michigan (DRM), and the Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute (MI-DDI).
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council (MiDDC)
Advocacy, Capacity Building, Systems Change
MiDDC provides education and advocacy opportunities to advance policies and systems change, so people with disabilities are empowered to live independent and productive lives in their communities.
Disability Rights Michigan (DRM)
Protecting Rights, Enforcing the Law
As Michigan’s Protection & Advocacy agency, DRM provides free legal advocacy and representation to individuals with disabilities facing discrimination in education, employment, voting access, healthcare, and more.
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute (MI-DDI)
Research, Training, Innovation
Based at Wayne State University, MI-DDI provides evidence-based training and community education, conducts research, disseminates information, and develops inclusive tools to support individuals with developmental disabilities across their lifespan.
Our Collective Impact
Together, we serve as the united voice for Michigan’s disability community, amplifying the lived experiences of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Our collective impact ensures their voices are not only heard but reflected in the decisions that shape our services and communities.
What are some current issues affecting Michigan's DD Network?
The Michigan Developmental Disabilities Network receives funding from the federal government to support individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. Any reduction or elimination of federal funding could impact the programs, educational opportunities, and services offered by Michigan's DD Network.
The disability community in Michigan is experiencing a critical moment. Access to services is uneven. Many people with disabilities continue to face barriers to transportation, housing, employment and basic community living. Michigan’s DD Network exists to fix those problems. While each partner has a unique role, the DD Network operates as an interconnected system that serves as the united voice for Michigan’s disability community. Each organization cannot function fully without the others. Reducing or eliminating funding could mean:
- No legal protection without DRM
- No grassroots voice and policy changfe without MiDDC
- No data, training, or evidence-based practices without MI-DDI.
The DD Network ensures long-term and cost-effective improvements in the lives of thousands of Michigan residents. Together, we help every person with a developmental disability live, learn, and lead in their community.
Why Your Voice Matters
Laws and budget decisions affecting Michigan's DD Network could affect the programs, educational opportunities, and services available to people with disabilities and their families. Policymakers benefit from understanding your experience with the DD Network and how these programs have affected you or someone you know. By sharing your lived experiences, you can educate your elected officials and help them understand the importance of protecting Michigan's DD Network.
Take Action: Educate Your Elected Officials
Act now to educate your elected officials about your experience with programs and services offered by Michigan's DD Network! Here's how:
✍️ Use this form to write a message to their office.
📞 Call their district offices.
🏦 Attend a town hall or community event they are hosting.
📣 Encourage your friends, family members, and allies to contact Congress.
Your Voice Can Make a Difference
Lawmakers need to hear directly from people who have lived experience. By speaking up, you are making sure your legislators hear from people who are directly affected by the laws they vote on. Don't wait - take action today!
Additional Resources
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Institute
Michigan Developmental Disabilities Council
National Disability Rights Network
Association of University Centers on Disabilities
National Association of Councils on Developmental Disabilities
Overview of The Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000