Milton resident Rita Young, who works as the public policy director for All About Developmental Disabilities, advocates for increased legislation and funding for Georgians with developmental disabilities.

Last month, the agency, which was founded in 1956, led a coalition to the Georgia Capitol with the goal of eliminating or reducing waiting lists in Georgia for all home and community-based services that support those with disabilities.

Ms. Young, whose two teenage sons were diagnosed with autism at a young age, said she understands the impact disabilities can have on a family.

“When I discovered that my sons had autism, it was difficult initially because I wasn’t sure what the future held for them,” she said. “It was taxing on the family, and connecting with resources and services was a challenge.”

Ms. Young got involved with the agency in 1998 after going through a leadership training program that helped her see her situation in a new way.

“The program changed the way I thought about disabilities and the possibilities of creating a great life for some who has developmental disabilities,” she said. “I think it’s really important for families and individuals with disabilities to be able to find the services and support they need.”

As public policy director, Ms. Young tracks and monitors legislation, relating to developmental disabilities.

Ms. Young said a goal of the agency is to gain greater funding for Georgians who have developmental disabilities so they can live in the community, rather than in institutions.

“The community isn’t whole until everyone is included,” she said.

According to Ms. Young, new services for those with developmental disabilities have been frozen because of lack of funding in the state’s budget.

Information:

www.aadd.org.