For 39 years, the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) has broken barriers and created opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) in San Diego and Imperial Counties. Through funding, advocacy, and emergency assistance, FDD has helped thousands of individuals with I/DDs and their families access essential resources. As FDD approaches its 40th anniversary in 2026, it remains committed to fostering a more inclusive community.
In 2024, the Association of Fundraising Professionals San Diego honored FDD as the Outstanding Organization for Diversity and Inclusion at National Philanthropy Day. This recognition reflects FDD’s long-standing efforts to ensure individuals with I/DDs access to education, job training, housing, and essential services. By partnering with diverse organizations, investing in innovative programs, and addressing systemic barriers, FDD continues to champion meaningful change.
A well-trained workforce ensures quality care and services for individuals with I/DDs. Recognizing this, FDD invests in education and career pathways for students pursuing I/DD-related careers. In the past seven years, the Raymond M. Peterson Scholarship Program has awarded over $228,000 to eighty-four post-secondary students in advocacy, therapy, special education, and service provision. These students represent the future workforce supporting and empowering the I/DD community.
Since 2018, FDD has invested over $400,000 in job development programs for individuals with disabilities. A recent highlight is California State University San Marcos’s ‘Aspiring Scholars’ program, which provides students with I/DDs a fully immersive college experience, vocational skills, and independent living training. Initiatives like this ensure that individuals with I/DDs receive training, mentorship, and career pathway support for long-term success.
Since 1986, FDD has allocated over $2 million in emergency assistance, including $236,000 in the past year alone, helping families maintain stable housing and essential services. The Emergency Help Fund is a vital safety net for San Diego and Imperial Counties’ families of children with I/DDs, preventing eviction, homelessness, and service interruptions. This fund provides immediate financial support for rent assistance to prevent displacement, utility payments to ensure the continuity of essential services and other critical expenses that support family stability.
Expanding educational opportunities, workforce inclusion, and housing accessibility are key to fostering a stronger, more equitable community for individuals with I/DDs. Your support can help increase opportunities, remove barriers, and create a brighter future for those who need it most.
Join in building a more inclusive world by supporting FDD’s mission. Use the QR code to donate today. To learn about planned giving or sponsorships, please contact Jill Weber at (858) 256-2222.
www.foundationfordd.org
