Note from the Director
I hope that you are enjoying the beautiful springtime in Maryland.
I want to update you on a few of the projects that we are currently working on here at the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) and new staff that have joined DDA
In July 2011, DDA received additional funding due to the increase in the alcohol tax. The funding has provided ongoing supports to more than 200 people in the crisis resolution category. In addition, DDA has been able to offer Services of Short Duration (SSD) funding to more than 1,100 people in the crisis prevention category. SSD funding guidelines allow for up to $10,000 per person to address the immediate crisis trigger (s) and provide intervention services. The SSD user guide is available under the News Updates section of the DDA web site. If you know a person eligible for SSD funds who has not yet submitted a request for assistance, please encourage them to do so as the deadline of June 30, 2012 is fast approaching.
In a previous posting, I mentioned that DDA was awarded a grant to support Maryland's ability to measure and track state developmental disabilities service outcomes and performance through the National Quality Measurement Project. As a result, Maryland has joined the National Core Indicators (NCI)program. I am happy to announce that the DDA has contracted with Inclusion Research Institute who will be working in partnership with M. Davis and Company to administer the NCI surveys to people and families. The DDA will be providing additional information on the NCI to all stakeholders in the coming weeks.
During the past two months, we have filled two key positions within the Administration. Stanley "Stan" Butkus, Ph.D. joined us as the DDA Deputy Director. Stan’s duties include oversight of DDA’s Regional Offices and DDA's Employment First project. Mr. Gerald "Gerry" Skaw is the new Assistant Director of Administrative and Fiscal Services. Gerry will oversee DDA's fiscal services as we work to modernize and streamline our fiscal processes. Please join me in welcoming both Stan and Gerry to DDA.
Thank you to each stakeholder that has written or called to share your concerns, thoughts, ideas, and experiences with me. Please continue to share your concerns, thoughts, ideas, and experiences with me by contacting my special assistant, Kim Bennardi, at 410-767-5997, or by sending an e-mail to DDA Executive Unit.
Frank Kirkland, Director 
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