Department of Developmental Services Visits Fitchburg Rotary Club

Mary Heafy, President/CEO of Alliance for Resource Management invited Donna Boucher, DDS Area Director, to speak at the Rotary Club meeting. Mary introduced Donna recognizing her lifelong commitment to individuals with disabilities and noting her long-term connection with The Alliance. Donna’s very first job out of college was working for The Alliance as part of Matson Community Services.

Donna explained that the area office of the Department of Developmental Services serves 27 local cities and towns servicing children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Statewide the DDS services 32,000 people by providing them with some of their basic needs; family services and support, physical health monitoring, housing needs, behavioral assessments, and employment training and education.

Donna pointed out that in cases where there are no living relatives to assist clients in making important life decisions; the DDS seeks out volunteers to serve as Guardians. The DDS is always looking for thoughtful, responsible community members to volunteer to become involved as guardians. Guardians are court appointed volunteers who serve as decision makers for people who need support. For more information contact Donna Boucher at donna.boucher@state.ma.us