PADDC’s advocacy activities include developing coalitions, encouraging citizen participation, informing policymakers, and showing new approaches to services and support.

Our goals are to:

  • Support public policy to ensure Supported Decision Making approaches are viable alternatives to traditional guardianship in Pennsylvania.
  • Ensure the transition of young children with disabilities from early intervention services to education is seamless, non-disruptive and beneficial to children and their families.
  • Eliminate sub-minimum wage and promote competitive integrated employment for people with developmental disabilities.
  • Increase access to safe, accessible, and affordable housing for people with disabilities.
  • Increase access to technology, especially for students with disabilities in school settings.
  • Support medical, dental, and behavioral healthcare policies and services which meet the needs of people with developmental disabilities, particularly as those disabilities intersect with their other identities.
  • Promote universal inclusive design for community spaces and community services.
  • Advocate for education policies which empower students with disabilities and their families to know their rights and make decisions.
  • Support public policies to end the waiting list for services.
  • End the segregation and institutionalization of individuals with disabilities, including at State Centers.