Official State of Rhode Island website

Department of Behavioral Healthcare, Developmental Disabilities & Hospitals State of Rhode Island

Division of Developmental Disabilities

Two men smiling

The Division is committed to serving adults with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (I/DD). This webpage shares details about the Division and the work it does.  

Who We Are

The Division plans, funds, and oversees the adult developmental disability (DD) service system. 

The Division believes everyone deserves to live happy, healthy, and full lives. The work the Division does supports this belief by making sure:  

  1. Adults with I/DD have more opportunities.
  2. The services and supports adults with I/DD get are high-quality. 

What We Do

  • Make it easier for adults with disabilities to get the services and supports they need. The Division does this by funding DD services and supports. Adults with I/DD can apply for services. The services are available through community provider agencies. People can also decide to self-direct their services.
  • Make sure people getting services have access to resources that meet their needs. This is also called Person-Centered Planning (PCP). PCP means the supports a person gets matches their unique needs and interests.
  • Help grow the number and type of opportunities adults with I/DD have. The focus is on growing opportunities for meaningful life in the community. This includes opportunities for jobs that pay good wages.
  • Protect the rights and safety of adults with I/DD. The Division does this by making sure provider agencies provide good services. The Division also helps make sure people have access to the right support when they need it. 

Resources to Learn More About the Division

Annual Program Report

The Division recently released its first Annual Program Report (PDF). This report shares the Division's 2024 achievements and goals with the I/DD community. 

DD Guidebook 

The Division created a DD Guidebook (PDF). The purpose of this guidebook is to share information about the DD service system and options. The guidebook includes information about:

  • How to apply for services.
  • How to pay for services.
  • What a PCP is and why it matters.
  • What the different services are and how to get them.
  • Tips to stay healthy and safe in the community. 

If you have any questions or feedback about the annual report and/or DD Guidebook, please let us know by emailing BHDDH.AskDD@bhddh.ri.gov. 

This webpage was updated 8/5/25.