Public gets close-up look at County’s Developmental Diversity during open house
Smiles filled the halls of Benton County Developmental Diversity the evening of Friday, Oct. 20. Clients, staff, and guests gathered for an open house at their new facility at the County’s Sunset Building at 4077 SW Research Way in Corvallis.
Developmental Diversity moved into their new office location this past February. Since 2015, it had been located at 2420 Professional Drive in Corvallis. The move has provided additional space for the program to better serve clients and bring staff closer to their peers in other County programs.
During Friday’s open house, attendees were invited to tour the office, visit with staff, learn about the programs, and take part in numerous fun activities. A meal featuring sandwiches and cake was provided.
“We’re excited to welcome folks in to share our new space, build community, and celebrate developmental diversity together,” said Developmental Diversity Division Manager Jasper Smith.
The open house coincided with National Disability Employment Month, celebrated every year in October to highlight the contributions of America’s workers with disabilities past and present and showcases supportive, inclusive employment policies and practices that benefit employers and employees.
The County’s Developmental Diversity Program provides support for children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities that meet state criteria for eligibility. The program serves as the point of access to services and support for people in Benton County, including employment connections and supports.
Benton County started as a pilot of the services coordination model in 1971 as the first county in Oregon along with Lincoln County. In 1973, the state legislature designated Oregon counties as the local authority for the coordination and delivery of services for people with developmental disabilities across the state. This initiated statewide developmental diversity services 50 years ago.
Inquire about the services provided at Benton County Developmental Diversity by visiting their website or calling 888-232-7192.
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Benton County is an Equal Opportunity-Affirmative Action employer and does not discriminate on the basis of disability in admission or access to our programs, services, activities, hiring and employment practices. This document is available in alternative formats and languages upon request. Please contact the Public Information Office at 541-766-6800 or pioinfo@bentoncountyor.gov.