Our Story
It all started with a man and his newspaper.
More than 60 years ago, newspaper publisher Barry Bingham Sr. printed an open letter. He invited families of children with developmental disabilities to organize in mutual support. In 1952, a small band of parents responded to the call and formed a private, non-profit parent association.
What is known today as The Council on Developmental Disabilities or “The Council” for short.
Through the years, The Council's advocacy initiatives have led to changes in law, services and expectations that have reshaped the culture and the landscape for all Kentuckians with developmental disabilities.
Our Mission & Vision
We are a small nonprofit with a great big vision: a society that includes, values and empowers children, youth and adults with IDD. Our mission is to initiate positive change on behalf of our constituents. The Council is a Louisville-based nonprofit rooted in advocacy of fully inclusive lives for individuals of all ages who have developmental and/or intellectual disabilities. We have been affiliated with Metro United Way as a partner agency for 45-plus years, and we are grateful for United Way's commitment to serving our community.
The Council helps individuals, families and caregivers by providing one-on-one guidance, training events and social events to navigate essential community resources to help individuals live their best lives. We are here to serve your family for a lifetime, offering training and empowerment through all the stages of your journey.
