Misson Statement and Guiding Principles
The mission of the Waisman Center, University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) is to support the full inclusion and self determination of people with developmental disabilities and their families through:
- development of personnel qualified to provide services in the health, education, and social service systems
- provision of services, technical assistance and the dissemination of information,
- improvement of assessment, service and support approaches,
- contribution of new knowledge about the causes and prevention of developmental disabilities, the impact of disabilities on individuals and families, and the efficacy of different assessment, intervention and support methods.
As a member of the University of Wisconsin System, the Waisman Center UCEDD adheres to the fourfold university mission to advance research, academic training, service and outreach.
The following principles reflect the core values and approaches that are common to activities of the UCEDD.
Person– and family–directed care and support, including culturally competent services.
Faculty and staff will demonstrate through practice and training that
- people with developmental disabilities and their families are in the best position to identify their concerns and priorities and to make their own decisions.
- services and support to people with disabilities and their families must be provided in a manner that is understanding and respectful of their culture and heritage.
- families have the right to expect quality, comprehensive, coordinated interdisciplinary services and supports with confidentiality assured.
- individuals and families are encouraged to draw upon the resources that exist in their local communities, and to call upon the Waisman Center programs for technical assistance with assessment, diagnosis, development of intervention strategies, treatment and care coordination within a reasonable time limit in relation to the services they have received.
Inclusion of all people with developmental disabilities in the community.
Faculty and staff will work to ensure that
- appropriate services and supports are available to foster inclusion in local community programs.
- training activities promote the value of inclusion, based on the belief that each person has the potential to make a positive contribution to his/her community.
Interdisciplinary approach to service and training, including interagency partnerships.
Faculty and staff will promote
- interdisciplinary and disciplinary provision of service and support to people with developmental disabilities and their families, as well as training opportunities that reflect these perspectives.
- a spirit of interagency collaboration and community partnership that is responsive to the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families.
Best practices and evidence–based approach to service and training.
Faculty and staff will demonstrate best practices by
- providing activities that link theory, knowledge, values and developmentally appropriate practice.
- striving to incorporate clinical research in training and services to individuals and their families.
- assuring that program opportunities are accessible and responsive to consumer requests and input.
- continuously evaluating program directions and maintaining openness to new and innovative ideas.