River Vale, New Jersey – Spectrum for Living is partnering with the County of Bergen through the Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program to connect adults with developmental disabilities to volunteer positions on Bergen County’s Advisory Boards. This initiative was funded by an Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant from the Division of Disability Services, New Jersey Department of Human Services.

“Spectrum for Living is thrilled to partner with the County of Bergen through the support of the Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program,” shared Christopher Perry, President and CEO of Spectrum for Living. “We presently manage a Client-Advocacy Group where clients share their thoughts, concerns, and perspectives toward service delivery. This group is used to bridge the gap between clients receiving services and service providers to understand emerging needs and brainstorm solutions together. We are excited to replicate this program on a broader scale and work with the County of Bergen so that our clients can advocate for policy changes at the regional level.”

Inclusive Healthy Communities is a grant program established by the Division of Disability Services (DDS), New Jersey Department of Human Services. The program funds New Jersey communities and organizations engaged in projects that promote the health and well-being of individuals with disabilities in the communities where they live.

“We are looking forward to working with Spectrum for Living over the next couple of years, and supporting their work to improve community engagement for people with disabilities.  We know that we make better decisions, and create more inclusive policies and practices when we have the full participation of the people in our communities” shared Peri Nearon, Executive Director of the New Jersey Division of Disability Services.

Inclusion Across the Spectrum aims to include adults with developmental disabilities in policy-making and systematic changes on the county-level and create a sustainable model for diversity, inclusion, and equity utilizing the authentic voices of adults with developmental disabilities. This initiative is a fundamental step toward creating lasting and sustainable change with impactful results generated from the committee level.

“The County of Bergen is proud to partner with Spectrum for Living through the Inclusive Healthy Communities Grant Program to empower adults with developmental disabilities in advocating for policy changes at the regional level,” said Bergen County Executive Jim Tedesco. “By including diverse voices and perspectives, we can create a more inclusive and equitable community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive. This initiative represents a significant step toward lasting change and meaningful impact.”

Spectrum for Living’s program prioritizes health equity, policy systems and environmental change, and inclusion for and among the developmentally disabled population by offering clients an outlet to be their own advocates. To learn more about Spectrum for Living and Inclusion Across the Spectrum please contact Elizabeth Boyajian, Director of Development at Spectrum for Living at eboyajian@spectrumforliving.org