The Partnership for People with Disabilities at Virginia Commonwealth University is Virginia's University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) Education, Research, and Service. Partnership is one of a national network of 61 UCEDDs supported by the federal Administration on Developmental Disabilities. These programs promote the independence, productivity, integration, and inclusion of individuals with developmental disabilities through implementation of the following required core functions: (1) interdisciplinary preservice preparation; (2) community service activities; (3) conduct of research; and (4) activities related to dissemination of information and research findings. The Partnership meets these common mandates by the establishment of programs that serve as a bridge between university programs, individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, service agencies, and the larger community. The Partnership has a statewide focus and mission and works within communities to increase acceptance and belonging for individuals with disabilities of all ages. The Partnership operates a variety of grants and contracts that are characterized by their collaborative and interdisciplinary nature, active participation of individuals with disabilities and their families, and coordination with university, local, state, and national organizations.

Our mission is to partner with communities to support, respect, and include individuals with disabilities and their families. Based on current knowledge and research, we work with others to increase choices for individuals, change systems, improve services, and affect public policy. We prepare personnel concerned with developmental disabilities, provide technical assistance, conduct research, disseminate information, and engage in advocacy and prevention activities.