NDRN Funds Two Community Monitoring Programs

For Immediate Release
3/9/11

Contact:    
David Card
202.408.9514 x122
press@ndrn.org

WASHINGTON – The National Disability Rights Network (NDRN) has awarded contracts to two of its member agencies, Disability Rights North Carolina (DRNC) and Alabama Disabilities Advocacy Program (ADAP), to monitor and advocate on behalf of individuals with developmental disabilities transitioning from institutions to community living.  The $42,500 in funding was provided by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) to NDRN who then made the awards.

“Community monitoring is a cornerstone of our work to ensure the highest quality services are provided in the safest environment,” said NDRN executive director Curt Decker. “The breadth of experience and demonstrated commitment of DRNC and ADAP will help individuals with disabilities living in the community know their rights and be free from abuse and neglect.”

As states continue to down-size large institutions, more individuals are moving to smaller group homes and similar less-restrictive settings in their communities.  ADAP will be using the funds to monitor and provide advocacy services to the former residents of Partlow Developmental Center, a state-run institution which officials announced last week would be closing.

DRNC and ADAP have extensive experience monitoring the transition of individuals from institutions to the community.  Both have visited thousands of individuals with developmental, intellectual and psychiatric disabilities who once resided in large institutions, but now live in the community. Previous monitoring and advocacy activities have uncovered instances of abuse and neglect, investigated health and safety standards, provided training to residents and staff, and assisted individuals in gaining access to better services and supports.

“NDRN is pleased to partner with ADD and these two outstanding agencies to protect the rights of individuals with disabilities living in the community,” said Decker.