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Dear DDS Community,
March is National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. This month is a time to recognize the talents, contributions, and accomplishments of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities across Connecticut and throughout the country. It is also a chance to reflect on the importance of inclusion, access, and belonging in every community.
Across the State, individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities are living full and meaningful lives. As employees, neighbors, volunteers, leaders, artists, and students. With the right supports, individuals are building independence, forming strong relationships, and contributing to their communities in ways that matter. These stories and experiences are at the heart of what this month represents.
National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month reminds us that inclusion does not happen by accident, it requires work and attention. It requires employers who open their doors, communities that remove barriers, and systems that listen to voices of self advocates and families.
This month, we celebrate the progress, recognize the work still ahead, and continue building a Connecticut where everyone belongs.
Sincerely,
Jordan Scheff
DDS Commissioner
News & Updates
News from DDS Employment and Day Supports:
Micro-Enterprise Success Story: Emma
Learn about Emma and her Micro-Enterprise Emma’s Pearlz here. Many individuals supported by DDS engage in self-employment and own their own Micro-Enterprises. DDS eligible Individuals can apply for up to $5,000 to start or expand their micro-enterprise. Learn more about micro-enterprises on the new DDS Self-Employment page.
To learn more about CT Project SEARCH programs, please check out the Project SEARCH contact list.
Assistive Technology & Remote Supports
Promoting Independence Through Technology
Do you, or someone you know:
• Want to live more independently?
• Want to build new skills while living on your own?
• Want more independence at home, in the community, or at work?
• Have difficulty finding or keeping staff?
• Want more choice over who provides support and when they come into your home?
If so, Assistive Technology and Remote Supports might be a great option!
What is Assistive Technology (AT)
Assistive Technology (AT) includes devices, equipment, or systems that help individuals increase independence, safety, communication and daily living skills.
AT can include:
• Smart home devices (lights, thermostats, doorbells)
• Medication reminders
• Communication devices
• Tablets and apps
• Adaptive equipment
• Safety Technology
• Environmental controls
• Wearable alert systems
AT helps individuals:
• Complete daily tasks with more independence
• Improve communication
• Increase safety at home and in the community
• Build confidence and new skills
• Reduce reliance on in-person support when appropriate
What are Remote Supports?
Remote Supports combine Assistive Technology with trained staff who provide support from a distance.
With Remote Supports, individuals can:
• Receive prompts or reminders
• Check in with staff by phone, tablet, or computer
• Get help during unexpected situations
• Enjoy greater privacy and independence
• Access support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week
Remote Supports connects people through technology whenever support is needed, day or night!
Remote Supports gives individuals:
• Access to staff when help is needed
• Space and independence when it is not
• More choice and control over their support
• Increased opportunities to learn and grow
Combining Assistive Technology & Remote Supports
When used together, AT and Remote Supports:
• Promote independence
• Increase safety
• Expand personal choice
• Build new skills
• Support aging in place
• Help address staffing shortages
• Create flexible, person-centered supports.
Technology does not replace people; it enhances independence while keeping support available when needed.
What’s new in the AT Division?
National Assistive Technology (AT) Awareness Day is recognized on April 30, 2026: Celebrate the vital role of Assistive technology in empowering individuals with disabilities and older adults.
Ways to celebrate:
• Share your Story: post videos, photos or stories about how AT has enhanced your life
• Learn more: contact local AT centers to learn more about AT
• Attend a Demo: Join CT’s leaders on AT supports and services for live demos and an interactive panel of experts at the 2026 Aging Matters conference on 4/22/2026 located at the Newington Senior and Disabled Center from 1:30pm to 3:00pm
Guidance documents on Remote Supports have been updated, Check them out on our website Assistive Technology and Remote Supports.
New Opportunity with Remote Supports!
Recent Graduates Initiative
DDS has an exciting opportunity for recent graduates without residential funding to receive residential Remote Supports services.
Are you, or someone you know:
• Between the ages of 22 and 26
• Not currently receiving any residential funding from DDS
• No longer in school
• Interested in becoming more independent
• Interested in using technology
If yes, then this might be for you! DDS has funding available to work with only 50 recent graduates, so submit your request while funding remains available.
If you wish to learn more, please reach out to your case manager, the Remote Supports team by emailing dds.remotesupports@ct.gov, or click here for more information!
Supportive Housing:
Supportive Housing: A little more Support. A lot more independence.
Are you interested in living in your own apartment?
Do you know someone who is considering living in their own apartment?
Do you, or someone you know, just want to learn more about living in your own apartment?
DDS Supportive Housing might be a great option!
Supportive Housing provides an individual supported by DDS with rental assistance in an apartment setting and support from a qualified DDS provider. Apartments are accessible, affordable, and tailored to an individual’s needs. On-site residential support staff help with personal care and daily living.
To learn more, talk with your case manager, or visit Supportive Housing.
Rewarding Work:
Spring is right around the corner, a perfect time for new beginnings! From hiring your first caregiver to building your care team, Rewarding Work makes it easier to find the right support by giving you control of the hiring process. You set the schedule, define your needs, and find candidates who are a good fit for your family. Plus, you’ll have access to free resources and tools on our website, and live customer support.
Best of all, Rewarding Work is free for families across Connecticut thanks to CT DDS. Use the access code ctddsconnect when you register to begin your free 12-month renewable subscription. From there, you can search our applicant database, post a job and be on your way to finding the support you need.
Visit www.rewardingwork.org/ct to get started.
Mark Your Calendars!
DDS Sponsored Events
Save the Dates!
11th Annual Connecticut Secondary Transition Symposium
Mark your calendars for the 11th Annual Connecticut Secondary Transition Symposium on Wednesday, March 18, 2026! The Symposium is a statewide conference that connects students, families, educators, and professionals to strengthen secondary transition services and improve post-school outcomes for students with disabilities. This year’s theme is “Youth Leading a Changing World.”
Welcome to DDS Employment and Day Services: You’re 22, Now What? Hosted by DDS Employment and Day Services, CT Family Support Network (CTFSN), and CT Parent Advocacy Center (CPAC).
Save the date for this virtual presentation designed for individuals and families to learn about the next steps after turning 22 and moving into adult services. This informative session will provide an overview of DDS Employment and Day Services, including available supports and resources. The presentation will take place on March 26, 2026, at 6:00 PM.
Keep an eye out for upcoming flyers with full details!
DDS Community Events
Providers, family groups, and advocacy organizations, send us your events to share: DDS.Updates@ct.gov
The Department of Developmental Services is dedicated to providing the community with informative, educational, and beneficial content, including information about free and paid events. Please note that we do not accept submissions related to fundraisers or requests for donations.
To submit content for consideration in the newsletter, please send your PDF or JPG files, along with any relevant links, to DDS.Updates@ct.gov. For more information, feel free to contact us at this email address.
