FDDC Connections: October 2025

Representative Chase Tremont was honored with the FDDC 2025 Outstanding Legislator Award

Representative Chase Tremont was honored with the 2025 Outstanding Legislator Award from the Florida Developmental Disabilities Council, Inc. (FDDC).

This award recognizes his commitment to advancing opportunities and support for Floridians with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

FDDC Executive Director Valerie Breen is pictured presenting the award.

FDDC Five-Year State Plan Public Comment Period

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) is inviting public comment on its next Five-Year State Plan (2026–2031). The Five-Year State Plan is a roadmap that guides how the Council works to improve the lives of Floridians with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD).

Over the past 18 months, FDDC partnered with WellFlorida Council to collect input from more than 600 individuals, families, and community leaders. These insights helped identify key priorities for the next plan, including Access to Services, Behavioral Health and Challenging Behaviors, and Aging Families.

Public comments are open October 15–November 30, 2025, with a virtual comment session on December 2.

Read the full plan and share your feedback by clicking the link below. There will be information about how to provide feedback via email, and how to register for the one-meeting comment session.



Esta información también se encuentra disponible en español. Para acceder a la versión en español, visita aqui.

Partners in Policymaking Class of 2025-2026

Introducing the Partners in Policymaking (PIP) Class of 2025–2026!

We look forward to the important work ahead as this group begins their journey in advocacy and leadership.

Down Syndrome Awareness Month

Join us in celebrating Down Syndrome Awareness Month! 💙



This month is dedicated to recognizing the abilities of individuals with Down syndrome, breaking down barriers, and promoting advocacy for people with Down Syndrome.

Looking for ways to make a difference? Explore resources, support, and advocacy opportunities on the National Down Syndrome Society (NDSS) website.

National Disability Employment Awareness Month

This October marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM) — a time to recognize the invaluable contributions of people with disabilities in the American workforce.

Since its start in 1945, NDEAM has grown from a weeklong observance into a nationwide movement advocating for opportunity for all.

Disaster Preparedness

September was National Preparedness Month, and Leon County emphasizes the need for residents to be prepared for disasters and emergencies that can strike at any time. Now is the time to review your emergency plans, ensure your disaster supply kits are fully stocked, and sign up for emergency alerts.

"Preparedness is the responsibility of everyone, and it is a year-round commitment," said Leon County Commission Chairman Brian Welch. “The preparation of our citizens, neighborhoods, and businesses is vital to the resilience of our community. The moment to prepare is now.”

2024 FDDC Annual Report

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council’s 2024 Annual Report is now available online in English and Spanish.

This year’s report highlights key progress in expanding access to services, strengthening the care workforce, supporting aging caregivers, building self-advocacy leadership, and advancing systems change. We’re focused on creating better pathways and stronger support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.

If you or a loved one works with a case manager or support coordinator, understanding how to get the most from that relationship is key.

The Florida Developmental Disabilities Council (FDDC) published a video series to walk you through its “Working with Case Managers” guide—a helpful tool designed to help you assess your current case management services and advocate for your needs.

Watch the videos:

• Understanding Case Management
• Assessing Your Case Manager
• Sharing Feedback with Your Case Manager

"Our Work Matters" Podcast Series

"Our Care Matters" Video Spotlights

The "Our Care Matters" series has now reached over 600,000 video plays, and we couldn’t be more grateful. Your views, shares, and comments are helping ensure these stories—of Floridians with developmental disabilities and their caregivers—are amplified across Florida and beyond.

Thank you for standing with us and for being part of the change we’re working toward together.

Want to hear the stories from people in your community? Click the link below to watch the "Our Care Matters" videos and see how individuals from counties across Florida are sharing their experiences.

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