Hafa Adai, Tirou, and Welcome,

to the CNMI Council on Developmental Disabilities website. Councils on Developmental Disabilities are in every state and territory of the United States . They work for the benefit of individuals with DD and their families to identify needs and help develop policies, programs and services that will meet these needs in a manner that respects dignity and independence.

As mandated in the DD Act and state law, CNMI CDD shall pursue to promote and guide public policy changes and create appropriate opportunities for new approaches in our service delivery systems island wide. CNMI CDD is proud to have enriched the lives of individuals with developmental and other disabilities by investing in grant projects that have created change in the areas of education, employment, housing, early intervention, transportation, recreation, and community integration. CNMI CDD works with many public and private groups to identify best practices, new approaches, and collaborative ventures that assists facilitate and increase the independence, productivity, and integration of people with disabilities in the CNMI.

An important component of our work is to advise the Governor, legislators and government agencies on public policy issues as well as on how to develop programs and services for people with DD that will eliminate barriers to full inclusion in all facets of community life in the CNMI. We shall make significant effort to ensure that people with disabilities and their family members play a critical role in identifying needs and in having a say in the policies and programs that affect their lives. Our Council board members are individuals with disabilities, parents, or family members of individuals with disabilities. Each member play a vital role in guiding our ongoing efforts to ensure responsive, individualized, and flexible systems of services and supports in our communities.

We are prepared and look forward to working with you on the important issues and challenges ahead and hope that you find the information and resources on this website helpful.