About the Administration on Developmental Disabilities

The Administration on Developmental Disabilities (ADD) is the federal government organization that oversees the implementation of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000. The ADD is a part of the Administration for Children and Families and U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.

ADD assures that people with developmental disabilities have opportunities to make their own choices, live independently, contribute to society, and live free of abuse, neglect, exploitation, or violation of their legal or human rights. To accomplish this goal, ADD implements programs to research and develop best practices in areas like quality assurance, education and early intervention, health, child care, employment, housing, transportation, and recreation activities. These include State Councils on Developmental Disabilities, State Protection and Advocacy Agencies, the National Network of University Centers for the Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research and Services, and Projects of National Significance.

The collection and dissemination of data posted on this website was supported in part by funding from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities, Administration for Children and Families, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.  Grantees undertaking projects under government sponsorship are encouraged to express freely their findings and conclusions.  Points of view or opinions do not, therefore, necessarily represent official Administration on Developmental Disabilities policy.