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The Office of Developmental Services (ODS) is dedicated to joining in partnership with all available state and local resources toward the development of communities (community providers and training centers) that support and affirm all persons with intellectual disabilities and their families as participating and contributing members.

The development of services for persons with intellectual disabilities is shifting away from the concept of specific service models to one in which services are structured around individualized, flexible supports that respond to the needs of individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families. This approach requires that adaptations and accommodations be made to ensure the effective use of natural and community resources in places such as: schools; work places; health services; and the home. This person centered focus is emphasized rather than simply trying to fit individuals with intellectual disabilities into professionally driven services.

ODS is in a unique position to work across the state with individuals, families, providers, and agencies toward the collaborative development of state and local service system infrastructures which support and empower persons with intellectual disabilities and their families.

The ODS believes that supports and services for individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families should:

• Empower individuals and provide the support to select and choose those services needed to reach their desired goals
• Be responsive and flexible to prevent family crises and other lifestyle limitations due to living with a family member with disabilities
• Maximize disability-specific and generic funding sources to the fullest and contain costs through reinvestment in supports which provide the strongest and most individualized outcomes for people.

• have dignity and worth as human beings
• deserve the opportunity and equal access to public support services
• need families and friends who can serve as their strongest advocates and social supports
• are entitled to health, safety, and well-being, free from abuse, neglect, or exploitation
• need person centered supports rather than professionally driven services
• have the right to live and work in supportive communities which empower individuals with intellectual disabilities and their families toward personally satisfying lifestyles

DMHMRSAS Mission, Vision and Strategic Plans

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***Please Note: The department name has changed to the Department of Behavioral Health and Developmental Services on July 1, 2009 (from the Department of Mental Health, Mental Retardation and Substance Abuse Services).  The department’s new Web site address is www.dbhds.virginia.gov.  The previous Web site address will continue to work for up to a year after July 1, 2009.***