Breaking Barriers
FDD’s Impact on the IDD Community
For 37 years, the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) has been dedicated to breaking barriers and creating opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDDs). FDD aims to nurture a more inclusive and supportive San Diego and Imperial County community through diverse initiatives. FDD remains steadfast in its commitment to positive and lasting changes for individuals with IDDs and their families.
Assessment, Funding, and Evaluation of Innovative Initiatives
FDD’s impact is rooted in its dedication to assessing, funding, and evaluating innovative programs led by local nonprofit organizations. By actively engaging and supporting organizations with a vision of inclusivity, FDD has played a pivotal role in shaping the services landscape for individuals with IDDs. The Foundation’s mission revolves around funding innovative programs that enrich the lives of individuals with IDDs.
Grant Contributions and Partnerships
Over the past six years, FDD has contributed over $2 million through grant opportunities and strategic partnerships, benefiting over one hundred local nonprofit organizations. Notable recipients include the Autism Society San Diego, Kitchen tABLE Academy, Outside the Lens, Path Now, San Diego Museum of Art, and UCSD Neurodiversity in Tech. These grants have empowered organizations to expand their services and community outreach, significantly impacting the lives of individuals with IDDs.
Job Development Programs
In its unwavering commitment to breaking barriers and creating opportunities, FDD stands as a fervent supporter of job development for individuals with IDDs. Since 2018, FDD has allocated over $400,000 to programs that elevate economic implications for individuals with IDDs. These initiatives not only pave the way for inclusion in the workforce but also empower individuals to realize their full potential.
A notable initiative is the $100,000 granted to Blissful Seeds. This substantial funding facilitated Blissful Seeds’s expansion into a new brick-and-mortar store in Poway and amplified its community reach and further enhanced vocational training programs.
Affordable and Permanent Housing Development
Recognizing the necessity of stable housing for individuals with IDDs, FDD takes proactive measures through strategic investments and partnerships. Since 2018, FDD’s commitment to affordable housing initiatives has reached an impressive milestone, with a total investment exceeding $1.5 million.
A recent landmark in this commitment is the investment of $502,000 supporting MirKa Investments Vista Lane Family Apartments. This strategic move underscores FDD’s dedication to fostering affordable and permanent housing solutions for those with developmental disabilities. The impact is profound, as it bolsters housing options and allocates 18 units to accommodate individuals with developmental disabilities.
Educational Attainment and Scholarships
FDD extends its impact on educational initiatives by empowering the next generation through the Raymond M. Peterson scholarship program. In 2023 alone, this commitment involved providing over $40,000 in scholarships to sixteen post-secondary students pursuing fields related to IDDs, aligning with the Foundation’s vision of fostering a knowledgeable and empathetic community.
Emergency Funds for Unforeseen Challenges
Understanding the unexpected challenges faced by individuals with IDDs, FDD allocates funds to provide emergency assistance. Since 1986, FDD has contributed $2 million to support San Diego Regional Center clients in overcoming unforeseen obstacles.
Follow FDD as it embarks on impactful initiatives, weaving a tapestry of vital services for the IDD community and their families in 2024 and beyond. Stay tuned for updates and opportunities to contribute to the Foundation www.foundationfordd.org.
