FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: October 12, 2016

Contact: Dan Hoblick, Department of Human Services, 605-773-6463

State’s Support for Developmentally Disabled Ranked Top Ten Nationally

PIERRE, S.D. – According to the recently released 2016 Case for Inclusion Report, the South Dakota Department of Human Services (DHS) Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) operates a system of community supports for South Dakotans with intellectual and developmental disabilities that ranks among the top ten in the country.

“This report reflects the focus South Dakota has placed on assisting people with disabilities to achieve their personal outcomes and goals including working in competitive jobs they choose and being active members of their communities,” said DDD Director Dan Lusk.

South Dakota’s  intellectual and developmental disability system has been ranked 9^th, up 29 spots from its 2015 ranking, primarily as a direct result of its high marks on the National Core Indicators (NCI) quality outcomes. NCI provides person-level information on participation in the community, safety and life experience. 

DHS Cabinet Secretary Gloria Pearson said, “Our state’s system has embraced person centered practices so people with disabilities and their families are able to access the supports they need to achieve a good life in the community and what is most important to them.” 

The report, which is conducted by United Cerebral Palsy, examines data and outcomes for all 50 states and the District of Columbia (DC).  The key areas states are measured against include promoting independence; health, safety and quality of life; supporting families; employment outcomes; and reaching those in need.

To download and read the entire 2016 Case for Inclusion report, or explore the data tables, visit cfi.ucp.org.

About DDD

DDD’s mission is to ensure that people with developmental disabilities have equal opportunities and receive the services and supports they need to live and work in South Dakota communities.