South Dakota Council on Developmental Disabilities

07/13/2026

Awesome program!

Have you heard about the Blue Envelope Program?

The Blue Envelope Program is a voluntary tool designed to support individuals with autism during interactions with law enforcement, most commonly during traffic stops. It helps create safer, less stressful encounters by providing officers with important information about a person's communication needs.

Inside the blue envelope, participants can keep:
- Driver's license, registration, and proof of insurance
- A brief explanation that they may need additional time or communication accommodations
- Helpful guidance for law enforcement to support positive, respectful interactions

This simple tool can make a meaningful difference by promoting understanding, reducing anxiety, and improving communication for everyone involved.

See video to learn more: https://youtu.be/qegY-GYuPxE?si=r2ckUXwkan59XMJq

06/18/2026

Only FOUR DAYS Left to Apply to Turn Your Experience into Impact!

The South Dakota Council on Developmental Disabilities is looking for someone who understands the realities of supporting a family member with a disability and wants to help improve systems for others.
In this role, you’ll:

• Connect and support families and self-advocates across South Dakota by building a statewide network where people can share resources, learn from each other, and access practical tools for daily life.
• Lead trainings and small group sessions to help families and individuals be self-determined and plan for their goals.
• Coordinate and communicate with partners to keep everyone informed and working toward shared goals.
• Help shape programs and policies by bringing real family perspectives into conversations with state leaders and disability organizations.
• Organize and participate in meetings, events, and outreach to expand family involvement and engagement.

The work includes a mix of facilitation, coordination, outreach, and some administrative responsibilities. It also involves travel within the state and occasional evening or weekend activities.

Who this is a great fit for:
Someone who has lived experience as a family member of a person with a disability, is comfortable speaking with groups, enjoys connecting people, and wants to help improve how supports and services work in South Dakota.

View the full job description and apply before June 22nd:

06/17/2026

Check out this awesome opportunity - contact Disability Rights South Dakota with any questions!

06/16/2026

Do you know someone who champions independence, inclusion, and opportunity for people with disabilities?

We're seeking nominations for the 2026 Champion of Independent Living Services Award, which recognizes:

*Individuals with disabilities
*Parents or family members
*Professionals supporting disability rights
*Community organizations, businesses, or schools with inclusive programs

Download the Nomination Cover Memo:
https://bhssc.link/champ-memo-2026

Download the Nomination Form:
https://bhssc.link/champ-nom-form-2026

Nominations are due Friday, June 26, 2026.
Questions? Contact [email protected]

06/15/2026

Have you nominated anyone yet? Do so today!

Seeking nominations for the Champion of Independent Living Services Award!
This award recognizes and honors:
*Individuals with Disabilities
*Parents or family members
*Professionals supporting disability rights
*Community organizations, businesses, or schools with inclusive programs
Download the Nomination Cover Memo:
https://bhssc.link/champ-memo-2026
Download the Nomination Form:
https://bhssc.link/champ-nom-form-2026
Nominations are due Friday, June 26, 2026
Questions? Contact [email protected]

06/15/2026

☀️🌊 Inclusive Waves is almost here! 🌊☀️
Join us for a sensory-friendly swim designed to provide a calm, welcoming, and inclusive environment for everyone to enjoy the pool. With reduced noise and a relaxed atmosphere, it's the perfect time to splash, play, and make memories.
📅 Saturday, June 20
🕚 11:00 AM – 12:00 PM

06/15/2026

06/09/2026

Have you taken The Center for Disabilities of SD’s survey? Take the survey below.

We want your feedback!

Help us improve the South Dakota Center for Disabilities website by taking a few minutes to explore our site and complete our Website Satisfaction Survey by June 28, 2026. Your input helps us continue providing helpful resources, information, and support to our community.

Website & Survey Link: https://southdakota.sjc1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_7QYzOzXKpyi9T7M?fbclid=IwY2xjawSKhS1leHRuA2FlbQIxMABicmlkETFqTzVaRDkybWN1NmM1ZjZpc3J0YwZhcHBfaWQQMjIyMDM5MTc4ODIwMDg5MgABHmZAIXH5kH4Xa_OHRZoo2ke-pGpP8Bb33g7sjG7KQ2EinHdUj_y5umqkDdLV_aem_vYwkFmhtW0gLD5ukOH3TyQ

06/04/2026

Check out these fun events coming up!

We may not be throwin' a giant party to celebrate the Americans with Disabilities Act like last year (the 40th will be festival fabulous again), but we do have some fun, low-key things planned for July. Visit our Facebook events page for full details, and mark your calendars!

06/03/2026

The Council has created draft goals for the upcoming state plan and is seeking public comment. The public comment period will be open from May 1, 2026 - June 15, 2026. Please utilize this survey to provide your feedback. If you would prefer a paper copy to provide feedback, please email [email protected]. If you have questions, you can also email [email protected] or call 605-773-6369. Please click this link to submit public comment:

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