Kelly Friedlander

CBCG’s mission is to advance person-centered, outcome-based policies and practices by engaging individuals, providers, state systems, and other stakeholders through advocacy, policy, and technical assistance to improve the quality of life for people with intellectual/developmental disabilities, their families, and their communities. OUR VALUES PEOPLE FIRST Community Bridges believes that disability is a natural part of the human experience. All people with intellectual and developmental disabilities are defined by their own strengths, abilities and inherent value, not by their disability. EQUITY Community Bridges believes that disability rights are human rights. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities are entitled to the respect, dignity, equality, safety, and security accorded to other members of society. COMMUNITY Community Bridges believes that people with intellectual and developmental disabilities belong in the community and have fundamental moral, civil and constitutional rights to be fully included and actively participate in all aspects of society. Public policy should promote and require that federal funding and state funds be used to support people to live, work, and participate fully in their communities. SELF-DETERMINATION CBCG believes in self-determination and self-advocacy. People with intellectual and developmental disabilities, with appropriate resources and supports, can make decisions about their own lives and must be heard on issues that affect their well-being.