In 2026, the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD) celebrates a significant milestone, 40 years of advancing inclusion, opportunity, and quality of life for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) across San Diego and Imperial Counties. Founded in 1986, FDD has spent four decades investing in people, strengthening families, and partnering with community-based organizations to ensure individuals with I/DD are supported, valued, and empowered to thrive.
At the core of FDD’s work is a clear and enduring mission: to enhance quality of life by investing in community-based programs, supporting families, and responding to urgent needs through flexible, impactful funding. Its vision is equally powerful: a community where individuals with I/DD are fully included and have equitable access to the resources and opportunities they need to reach their full potential. This vision has guided the Foundation’s evolution and shaped its role as a trusted funder, collaborator, and advocate within the region’s nonprofit ecosystem.
Over the past 40 years, FDD has translated its mission into measurable, life-changing impact. In the past ten years alone, FDD has invested just over $2 million in program grants supporting innovative programming, awarded over $352,000 in scholarships to postsecondary students supporting workforce pathways, and provided more than $1.92 million in emergency assistance to help families navigate critical moments. In addition, nearly $1 million has been directed toward housing initiatives promoting long-term stability and independence for individuals with I/DD. What sets FDD apart is its deeply community-centered approach; listening closely, responding nimbly, and investing in solutions that meet people where they are and address real, immediate needs.
To honor this milestone year, FDD launched the FDD Community Connection Series, a signature initiative designed to connect, celebrate, and inspire. The series features casual gatherings bringing together supporters, partners, advocates, and community members. These events create opportunities to learn more about FDD’s work, strengthen relationships, and engage in meaningful conversations about the future of inclusion.
The series officially kicked off on February 5, 2026, with a community celebration at Duck Foot Brewing Company. The event set the tone for the anniversary year, offering attendees the chance to connect with the FDD team and one another while enjoying food from Josue Cooks and a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere. The evening highlighted how FDD’s funding and partnerships continue to advance inclusion and improve the quality of life for individuals with I/DD throughout the region.
Building on this momentum, two additional Community Connection events are planned for Summer and Fall 2026, with dates to be announced soon. In addition, FDD will host three signature events: Grantee Showcase, Day at the Races, and the beloved Season of Sharing fundraiser, each offering unique ways to engage and support the Foundation’s mission and impact. Community members are invited to stay connected by scanning the QR code to find event updates and explore ways to follow and support FDD throughout its 40th anniversary year.
As FDD looks ahead, this milestone is both a celebration of progress and a reaffirmation of purpose, continuing to build pathways to inclusion, one partnership, one program, and one connection at a time.
www.foundationfordd.org
