�ǿմ�ý

Dear Friends and Supporters,

I want to thank you for advocating and supporting the recently passed rate increase for providers. It was a herculean effort, and we’re very grateful to you our friends and legislative partners who helped push through this much needed funding for the disability community. While we had hoped that the increases would start on July 1, 2024, we understand that this is a tough financial year for the State of California, and as such, are grateful that the rate increase was only pushed back by six months, with new start date of January 1, 2025.

Literally hundreds of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities marched in May in front of Senator Susan Rubio’s office, and �ǿմ�ý was well represented by both Members and staff, all chanting, “Keep the Promise.” I was proud to see so many people advocating for something so important! Other efforts, including rallies at the state capital, testifying in front of the state budget committee, and letter writing campaigns all helped get us to the goal line.

This will positively affect service options for over 460,000 individuals in the Department of Developmental Services system, and enhance the salaries of our hardworking direct service personnel who are the glue that makes everything happen.

In other news, we recently approved a one-year Operations Plan, a Five-Year Strategic Plan, and the �ǿմ�ý budget for FY ’25 at our annual board and senior leadership retreat held at the end of June. We look forward to having the first two documents available on our website () very soon, and hope that you’ll take the time to read through our plans. It’s going to be a busy year ahead with a number of major initiatives, including integrating The Campbell Center’s systems and staff, developing new housing models for our Members, significantly growing our Youth Navigation and Employment Services divisions, building on the successful launch of new office site in Thousand Oaks,  and supporting statewide initiatives to improve the options and outcomes for our Members and their families.

Finally, I would be remiss if I didn’t mention that we are hiring for a number of positions, so if you know of anyone that you think would be a good fit here at �ǿմ�ý, please let us know.

Thanks again for your support on so many levels. We couldn’t do it without you!

With respect,

John