Membership
The Maine Developmental Disabilities Council welcomes applications for new membership. Recruitment is always open, so feel free to apply at any time.
If you are interested in becoming a member of the council, click on the link below for our application or if you'd like to fill out an application over the phone, call 207-480-1478 or toll-free 833-713-2618.
Click here for a printable Membership Application
Click here for an online fillable Membership Application
MDDC is a public board funded by Federal and State monies with members that the Governor or a Commissioner of an official state department has appointed.
This page provides information on who can apply to become a member, the responsibilities of our members, and instructions on how you can apply.
Who can apply?
Maine DD Council membership requires applicants to comply with the categories listed in the federal Developmental Disabilities Act.
The categories are as follows:
Individuals with a developmental disability.
Parent or guardian of a child with a developmental disability.
An immediate relative or guardian of an adult with a mentally impairing developmental disability who cannot advocate for themselves.
An immediate relative or guardian of an institutionalized or previously institutionalized individual with a developmental disability or an individual with a developmental disability who resides or previously resided in an institution.
See Defining Developmental Disabilities for more information.
All candidates for DD Council membership should have some experience serving on committees, boards, or organizations.
Experience concerned with persons with developmental disabilities would be especially relevant.
Applicants should have first-hand knowledge about developmental disabilities in Maine.
What are the responsibilities of being a DD Council member?
Being a member of the Maine Developmental Disabilities Council means you will agree to do the following:
Expected:
- Attend meetings five (5) times per year.
- Attend the Council's conferences and events.
- Participate in new member orientation sessions.
- Prepare for Council and Committee meetings by reading information sent to you from Council staff.
- Advocate for Council's Mission and Philosophy.
- Participate in the development of Council positions on matters of public policy.
- Have the ability to communicate either by voice, interpreter, signing, or communication device.
- Read and respond to action alerts.
- Consult with Council staff as needed.
Voluntary:
- Serve on various Council ad hoc groups.
- Represent the Council at selected state or local events.
- Assume the role of Committee Chair, if appointed.
- Mentor a new Council Member.
- Provide information to state and/or federal legislation
