Maine University Center for Excellence in Development Disabilties - The Maine UCEDD in partnership with the Maine Developmental Disabilities Council, Disability Rights Maine, Speaking Up For Us (Maine’s disability self-advocacy organization), and other stakeholders, will, in this five-year project, fulfill the mission of a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities through the following goals in target areas of universal design/access, support, and advocacy: (1) increase knowledge, skills of undergraduates, graduates, post-graduates, and other trainees; (2) increase access, meaningful participation, and support to individuals with disabilities and their families by providing training, technical assistance, and consultation for individuals with disabilities, their families, professionals, paraprofessionals, support service organizations, policymakers, students, volunteers, and other members of the community; (3) conduct research, including evaluation and policy analysis; (4) communicate accessible and information relevant to persons with disabilities to a range of audiences. Anticipated outcomes include better training and support by persons with disabilities, their families, and the people who support them; better awareness of disability issues by public and policymakers; and generation of scientific knowledge in areas of disability. Expected products include materials for education, training, and technical assistance; peer reviewed scientific presentations and publications; and inventions that will benefit people with physical limitations.
