The North Carolina Council on Developmental Disabilities (NCCDD) assists people with intellectual or other developmental disabilities (I/DD), their families and supporters to attend conferences, participate in policy studies, conduct research and receive technical assistance and evaluation.

Funds are available to help pay for speakers and presenters whose work supports NCCDD’s goals—like improving systems, supporting advocacy, and helping communities to include people with I/DD and their families. 

Jean Wolff-Rossi Fund for Participant Involvement

The Jean Wolff-Rossi Fund for Participant Involvement (Rossi Fund) is designed to empower people with I/DD and their family members with opportunities, experiences, resources and information so they can actively participate in decisions that often impact them.

Individuals with I/DD and their family members can receive reimbursement for specific expenses for seminars and conferences that aim to improve their knowledge, networking and skill levels for advocacy. 

Conference/Speaker Funding

The Council’s Conference/Speaker Funding program is a way for NCCDD to advance its goals by sponsoring conferences. Many factors are used when determining whether to fund conference meeting space, accessible accommodations, or a presenter.