Iowa DD Council submits finalized State Plan to guide work from 2027 to 2031 The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council (DD Council) has submitted its finalized five-year State Plan to the federal Administration for Community Living. The plan will guide the Council’s work from 2027 to 2031 and takes effect October 1, 2026, the beginning of the DD Council’s fiscal year.  The State Plan was shaped by input from Iowans with developmental disabilities, family members, advocates, community partners, and organizations across the state. It serves as a roadmap for helping more Iowans with disabilities build leadership skills, advocate for change, and fully take part in their communities.  The plan focuses on two main goals: Leadership and Advocacy, and Empowering Communities Through System Change. These goals support the Council’s mission to create change with and for Iowans with developmental disabilities so they can live, work, learn, and play in the community of their choosing.  The plan highlights work to: 
  • Expand leadership and self-advocacy opportunities for Iowans with disabilities and their families
  • Support grassroots advocacy groups led by people with disabilities
  • Create more opportunities for people with disabilities to serve as trainers, mentors, presenters, and subject matter experts
  • Strengthen advocacy training, legislative education, policy resources, and public engagement 
  • Support youth with developmental disabilities as they transition to adulthood
  • Advance employment, accessible health care, supported decision-making, disability rights, and community supports
 “This plan reflects what we heard from Iowans with disabilities, family members, advocates, and community partners across the state,” said Brooke Lovelace, Executive Director of the Iowa DD Council. “Their experiences, ideas, and priorities helped shape this roadmap for the future. Over the next five years, we will continue working alongside Iowans to build more inclusive communities, strengthen advocacy efforts, and expand opportunities for people with developmental disabilities to live healthy, thriving lives.”  The Council’s commitment to advocacy and leadership development will also be on display at the 13th annual Make Your Mark! Self-Advocacy Conference, held September 16-17, 2026, at the Gateway Hotel and Conference Center in Ames.  This year’s theme is “Lights, Camera, Advocacy!” The conference encourages Iowans with disabilities to take center stage, share their stories, build confidence, and advocate for more inclusive communities. Attendance is free for people with disabilities and their caregivers.  The complete five-year State Plan, along with conference registration details, can be found on the Iowa DD Council website at www.iowaddcouncil.org.  About the Iowa DD Council The Iowa Developmental Disabilities Council is a federally funded state agency that advocates for the development of services and supports so Iowans with developmental disabilities can make choices and take control of their lives. The Council is made up of volunteers who represent Iowans with disabilities, family members, service providers, state agencies, and organizations concerned with developmental disability issues.