Center for Community Inclusion and Disability Studies
The Center for Community Inclusion and Disability Studies was established in 1922 to compile community and university resources to improve the quality of life for disabled people and their families. CCIDS facilitates both graduate and undergraduate interdisciplinary research, policy analysis, provides professional development, training, consultation, and technical assistance to the community, and provides relevant information. The Center collaborates with community, medical, and advocacy organizations to maximize communication, accessibility, and diversity of thought within its programs.
Areas of Emphasis:
- Education and Early Intervention
- Childcare
- Health
- Housing
- Employment
- Community Participation
The CCIDS works to advance the policies and practices for the benefit of people with developmental and other disabilities, their families, and communities. In accordance with its affiliation with the University of Maine, a Land Grant College, it prioritizes the facilitation of both undergraduate and graduate education related to disability studies, disability research, policy research, evaluation, and analysis, community service, and dissemination of accurate and helpful information. CCIDS is continuously working on programs and initiatives related to topics such as mobility devices, healthcare needs, early education, and professional development. The Daring to dream Awards were initiated in 2002 to honor individuals and organizations which have worked to improve inclusivity for people with disabilities and their families. Individuals and organizations can be nominated for one of four categories, Public Policy Change, Scholarship, Social Change, or Advocacy.
Commitments:
- Self-Determination
- Diversity
- Inclusion
- Advocacy
- Education
- Interdependence
- Support
- Collaboration
- Social Change
- Awareness
- Empowerment
- Innovation