About CHD

Mission Statement

The mission of the Center for Human Development is to improve the quality of lives for people who experience disabilities and their families, across the life span, through interdisciplinary training, technical assistance, exemplary service development, applied research and dissemination of information.

The goals and activities of the Center for Human Development are guided by the values of integration and inclusion, self-determination, individual and family empowerment, cultural sensitivity, diversity, community referencing, independence, and productivity.

Consistent with this philosophy, the Center for Human Development endeavors to bridge resources of the University of Alaska system and the statewide community to accomplish its mission.

Who We Are

The Center for Human Development (CHD) is a University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities Education, Research, and Service (University Centers, UCEDDs) authorized by the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000. There are 67 UCEDDs, at least one in every state and territory.  Since CHD is the only UCEDD in Alaska, we serve the entire state. 

The Center for Human Development has 4 major functions: interdisciplinary education, community training and technical assistance, research, and information dissemination. These activities are designed to increase the independence, productivity, and community integration and inclusion of individuals with disabilities.  CHD’s projects and activities are not limited to developmental disabilities; they focus on a wide range of disabilities, ages, and issues.

CHD serves as a bridge between university and community resources.  The Center is housed in the College of Health and Social Welfare (CHSW) at the University of Alaska Anchorage.

CHSW Organizational Chart

What We Do

Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000

The purpose of the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act of 2000 (the DD Act) is to assure that individuals with developmental disabilities and their families participate in the design of and have access to needed community services, individualized supports, and other forms of assistance that promote self-determination, independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion in all facets of community life, through culturally competent programs authorized under the law including which attempts to bring together the resources of the university and the community in support of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Partners

Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC)

CHD has a Consumer Advisory Committee (CAC) to ensure the perspective of people with disabilities and their families is included in our work.  CAC gives advice and feedback on CHD’s activities and serves as an informal bridge between the community and the university in our state.

By federal law the Advisory Board must The CAC must also include representatives from:

• Disability Law Center
• Governor’s Council on Disabilities and Special Education
• Self-Advocacy organizations

Other organizations such as:

• Parent and Training Information Center
• Those carrying out the Assistive Technology Act
• Relevant state agencies
• Community groups concerned with people with developmental disabilities and their family members

Community Advisory Committee Members

How We Are Funded

Center for Human Development is funded primarily through a variety of federal, state, and private grants and contracts. 

How To Contact Us

Center for Human Development
2702 Gambell St, Ste 103
Anchorage, Alaska 99503
Phone: (907) 272-8270
Fax: (907) 274-4802
E-mail: info@alaskachd.org
Website: www.alaskachd.org