Healthy Delawareans with Disabilities focuses on improving the health status of people with disabilities in Delaware.

HDWD is a cooperative agreement between the National Center on Birth Defects and Developmental Disabilities of the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Center for Disabilities Studies at the University of Delaware. This program focuses on preventing secondary conditions and promoting the health and wellness of Delawareans with disabilities.

Our Mission
To act as a catalyst for systems change to make health and wellness programs more accessible and inclusive.

Our Vision
All individuals with disabilities in Delaware will live active and healthy lives and will have the resources, supports, programs, and services necessary to do so.

Advisory Council
The Advisory Council consists of self-advocates, parents, advocacy groups, and state and community organizations dedicated to health promotion and wellness for people with disabilities. The  Advisory Council is an important and  integral part of the project and its members provide information, technical assistance, and expertise in health and disability- related areas. Contact HDWD for information about joining the Advisory Council.

HDWD Areas of Expertise

Systems Change
We create systems-level change through active participation on state-wide councils, committees, and workgroups that address health and disability issues and the implementation of the goals and objectives of the Plan for Action: A Strategic Plan for Delaware to Promote Health and Prevent Secondary Health Conditions in Individuals with Disabilities. Read the plan online (http://www.gohdwd.org/strategic_plan.html) or contact HDWD for a copy of the plan.

Technical Assistance
We provide technical assistance to healthcare and fitness providers to improve accessibility and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.

Education and Training
We educate, share resources and information, and raise awareness about health topics through HDWD’s interactive website www.gohdwd.org and email newsletters to individuals with disabilities, family members, professionals, policymakers, and legislators.

Additonal Focus Areas

• Healthcare transition for young adults
• Accessible recreation and fitness
• Inclusive emergency preparedness

Learn more, take action
GoHDWD.org offers information about living healthy with a disability. It is a resource for individuals with disabilities, their family members, and providers who work with people with disabilities in Delaware.

Sign up for the HDWD e-newsletter for news, research findings, learning opportunities, resources and events.