Maryland Department of Health
Developmental Disabilities Administration

Volunteer Opportunities

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The Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA) regularly partners with stakeholders on different standing committees and other outreach and coordination opportunities.​

Employment 1st Committee

The Employment 1st Committee is made up of people who are committed to ensuring people with developmental disabilities have access to the tools they need to achieve their employment-related goals. The Employment 1st Committee is also committed to the belief that all people can work. We are actively seeking new members who use DDA employment services to join our committee. Your voice is important as we talk about DDA’s employment services. We need your input. 

The Employment 1st Committee meets on the second Tuesday of each month from 12:30-2 p.m. There is also an opportunity to join a subcommittee if you are interested. Subcommittees meet separately. To learn more about DDA's Employment 1st Committee visit our Employment webpage​. To express interest in joining the Employment 1st Committee, please email Kasey Venn, DDA's Statewide Employment and Meaningful Day Services Coordinator at  kasey.venn@maryland.gov.
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Mortality and Quality Review Committee (MQRC)

The Mortality and Quality Review Committee was established through legislation to review deaths of the developmentally or intellectually disabled in Maryland. Members ensure that DDA-funded agencies and facilities are following COMAR regulations, guidelines, policies and procedures regarding these deaths. The committee also reviews death cases from the Behavioral Health Administration.

The MQRC meets quarterly at the Spring Grove Hospital Center in Catonsville, MD. from 10 a.m. to noon.

Committee members are nominated by the DDA Deputy Secretary and appointed by the Secretary of the Department of Health. Applicants must be passionate in advocating for better care and better services for those who are living and for those who are transitioning from living to death.

Applicant requirements:

  1. The available seats are for people with a developmental disability actively receiving DDA-funded services or their family members.
  2. Must be in good standing with no criminal background or illegal substance abuse convictions.
  3. Must declare any conflicts of interest with respect to DDA partnerships and shareholders.
  4. Must commit to attending the meetings to sustain membership.
To apply, visit the Office of Appointments and Executive Nominations. Under the heading "OAEN Resources" click on the "Biographical Information Form". Complete the form, upload and submit your resume to the email address indicated on the application. Candidates will be notified by DDA if selected.


Quality Advisory Council (QAC)

The ​Quality Advisory Council was established to assist in the review of DDA-related materials, to provide guidance on the validity of information, best practices, feedback on hot topic issues, and to find resolutions. This is an opportunity to work with the DDA in creating, developing and implementing policies, procedures and legislation.

This committee meets quarterly at PACT, Kennedy Krieger Institute in Windsor Mill, MD. Committee members are appointed for a three-year term by the DDA Deputy Secretary.
Applicant Requirements:
  1. Must be a client or family member who is receiving DDA-approved services or supports.
  2. Must be in good standing with no criminal background or illegal substance abuse convictions.
  3. Must declare any conflicts of interest with respect to DDA partnerships and shareholders. 
  4. Must commit to attending the meetings because attendance is crucial to sustaining your membership
To apply, visit the Office of Appointments and Executive Nominations. Under the heading "OAEN Resources" click on the "Biographical Information Form". Complete the form, upload and submit your resume to the email address indicated on the application. Candidates will be notified by DDA if selected.

Policy Stakeholder Review Process

The DDA is committed to seeking input on policy proposals from participants, families, Coordination of Community Service agencies, community providers, and advocacy organizations. We post proposed policies for stakeholder feedback on the Policy Stakeholder Input Page​. We welcome all constructive feedback for improving our policies.