MDSOAB monitors and comments on Maine state services for adults with Intellectual Disabilities and Autism (ID/ASD). We advocate for improved home, community, and work supports. The Board reports to DHHS, the Joint Committee on Health and Human Services, and the Governor’s Office. Most important, though- we report to people with ID/ASD and the people who care about them.
Examining Data
To do our work, we use data from the State, existing and proposed laws, policies, and practices, and work with others doing similar work. Our most important source of information is our annual Public Feedback Forum Series, when we talk directly with people using these services, their allies, and their support staff.
Public Feedback Forum Series
The MDSOAB coordinates a Forum Series each year to gather information and ideas from people with disabilities, their family members and friends, and community members. The Board reports their findings and provides advice and recommendations to the Governor, Legislature, DHHS, and the public. We rely on this information to guide our work for the next year.
Our Board Members
Board members are nominated by the MDSOAB Membership committee with full Board approval, appointed by the Governor, and serve a term of three years. Individuals with direct experience with State services and supports, and an interest in ensuring that people with ID or ASD are safe, active members of their communities serve on the Board.
MDSOAB & VCP
The MDSOAB oversees the Volunteer Correspondent Program of Maine, which partners adults with ID and ASD who lack close family relationships with citizen advocates. The MDSOAB shares an office with the VCP at 295 Water Street, Suite 203, in Augusta. For more information about the activities of the MDSOAB, contact us at (207) 512-0052.
The Maine Developmental Services Oversight and Advisory Board (MDSOAB), the only independent entity whose sole responsibility is to monitor Maine’s system of supports for adults with intellectual disabilities (ID) and autism spectrum disorders (ASD).