ABOUT THE INSTITUTE ON DISABILITIES

HISTORY

The Institute on Disabilities at Temple University is one of the sixty-seven University Centers for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Service funded by the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

Established in 1974, the Institute has mirrored the changes in the field of developmental disabilities, evolving from an institutional, specialized service model to a model of self-determination and individualized supports in the community.

During its early history the Institute provided extensive direct services and training, and later became nationally recognized for advocacy and research efforts centered on the closure of the Pennhurst Center. In the 1980's, the Institute began developing and evaluating support models for Pennsylvanians with disabilities and their families.

Today, the Institute is a vibrant and diverse organization with more than 60 staff members, including students and volunteers, working in close partnership with statewide advocacy and self-advocacy groups, centers for independent living, Pennsylvania's Developmental Disabilities Council, Pennsylvania Protection and Advocacy, Inc., state government, specialized and generic service providers, the criminal justice system, and colleges and universitites throughout Pennsylvania.

Located within the College of Education on Temple University's main campus in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, the work of the Institute has an impact on people's lives throughout Pennsylvania, nationally and internationallly. Programs such as ACES (Augmentative Communication and Empowerment Supports) have been launched in Brazil, Australia and India.

The Institute is a national leader in Disability Studies, leadership development, assistive technology, justice for people with disabilities, augmentative communication and emergency preparedness. The scope of work and dedication to our constituents continues to grow, touching more people with disabilities, families, communities, students, educators, employers and policy makers.