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Congratulations to our Latest FDD Program Grant Recipients



Investing in Inclusion & Innovation


At the Foundation for Developmental Disabilities (FDD), we believe innovative ideas and compassionate action are the keys to meaningful, lasting change. That’s why our program grant program invests in local nonprofits each year that drive innovation and create opportunities for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) across San Diego and Imperial Counties.

In this grant cycle, we proudly announce that $66,000 in funding has been awarded to six incredible organizations whose missions reflect the values of equity, empowerment, creativity, and community inclusion.


Empowering Change, One Grant at a Time


From inclusive recreation and job readiness to family support and culturally responsive programming, our latest grantees are delivering real-world solutions that meet the diverse needs of the I/DD community. These partnerships are a powerful reminder of what’s possible when organizations are empowered to lead, innovate, and uplift.



The Arc of San Diego – Art for All

FDD Program Grant: $10,000


Art for All brings inclusive arts programming to individuals of all abilities, offering a platform for creative expression and public storytelling. With FDD’s support, the Arc of San Diego is expanding access by providing adaptive art tools and hosting accessible public exhibitions.


Our Partnership in Action:


This grant fuels artistic expression and confidence, connection, and community. By investing in Art for All, FDD is funding supplies and affirming every person's right to explore their creativity, connect with others, and feel proud of what they can achieve. This grant also strengthens The Arc’s capacity to deliver programming that supports emotional expression, self-confidence, and personal growth.



ConnectMed International – Camp Cosmos

FDD Program Grant: $15,000


Camp Cosmos is a year-round therapeutic camp for children with craniofacial differences and I/DDs. Through inclusive arts, movement, and bilingual support, the program nurtures healing and community. FDD’s funding helps eliminate cost barriers and expands culturally responsive access.


Our Partnership in Action:


FDD’s support strengthens the camp’s therapeutic team by training future inclusive care providers and expanding the program’s reach to families in need. Through our funding, we help ConnectMed deliver a wraparound experience that fosters resilience, emotional well-being, and joy for children who often face social isolation.



Fred Finch Youth & Family Services – CARES Adelante Program

FDD Program Grant: $15,000


Fred Finch Youth & Family Services is leading the way in cultivating Imperial Valley's bilingual, culturally responsive behavioral health workforce. Through its innovative CARES (Center for Autism Research Evaluation and Service) Adelante Program, Fred Finch trains and mentors future Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) technicians—prioritizing the recruitment and support of bilingual and bicultural individuals historically underrepresented in the field.


With a $15,000 grant from FDD, the program provides stipends, mentorship, and hire-on bonuses to help interns complete their certification and successfully enter the workforce. This funding helps remove financial barriers, expand supervision capacity, and grow a workforce that reflects the diverse communities it serves—ensuring greater access to competent, compassionate care for youth with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs).


Our Partnership in Action:


FDD is proud to invest in local talent to meet the urgent demand for inclusive and accessible behavioral health services. By strengthening this workforce pipeline, we’re helping to ensure continuity of care, cultural responsiveness, and long-term staffing solutions in a region where these supports are critically needed. Our partnership with Fred Finch expands access to care and creates meaningful career pathways for individuals in underserved communities, fueling systemic change that will benefit future generations.



Noah Homes – PERCH Program Expansion

FDD Program Grant: $10,000


Noah Homes’ PERCH (Providing Exceptional Relationships Cause Happiness) initiative fosters connection, joy, and a sense of belonging for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) through inclusive community engagement. What began as a small, internal program has evolved into a vibrant, community-facing effort—and with support from FDD, it’s reaching even further.


With a $10,000 grant from FDD, PERCH is expanding beyond the Noah Homes campus to offer enriching outings across San Diego, including Padres games, museum visits, and other cultural experiences. Our funding supports accessibility accommodations, entry fees, and supplies—ensuring every participant can fully engage in these meaningful activities.

FDD is proud to help create opportunities for individuals with I/DDs to build relationships, explore their interests, and feel fully included in their community.


Our Partnership in Action:


We fund outings and invest in experiences that foster joy, friendship, and personal growth. By supporting PERCH, FDD promotes social connection, independence, and a true sense of belonging for individuals with I/DDs. These opportunities empower participants to explore their interests, build meaningful relationships, and participate in their community's vibrant life.



Sibling Leadership Network – SibThrive

FDD Program Grant: $1,000


Siblings of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DDs) often serve as lifelong caregivers, advocates, and companions—yet their needs are frequently overlooked. The SibThrive initiative, led by the Sibling Leadership Network (SLN), empowers these siblings with essential tools, education, and a supportive community.


With a $1,000 grant from FDD, SLN will expand SibThrive’s reach by developing culturally responsive materials, enhancing virtual peer connection tools, and offering online programming supporting siblings at every life stage. Through this partnership, FDD is proud to invest in those who play a vital, ongoing role in the lives of individuals with I/DDs.


Our Partnership in Action:


Siblings are vital caregivers, advocates, and lifelong supporters—yet they are often overlooked. FDD is proud to be one of the few funders investing in this essential group. Our support helps the Sibling Leadership Network strengthen sibling communities, expand equitable access to resources, and elevate siblings' critical role in the long-term well-being of individuals with I/DDs.



Vista Hill – Stein Education Center


FDD Program Grant: $15,000


Located in San Diego, Stein Education Center (SEC) provides specialized education for students with complex needs, including autism, emotional disturbances, and moderate to severe intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many of these students are referred to SEC when traditional school settings can no longer support their educational and behavioral needs.


With a $15,000 grant from FDD, SEC is enhancing its job readiness programming for fifty (50) students. The funding covers student wages, essential items such as work uniforms and shoes, and volunteer recognition awards. These real-world training opportunities equip students with the skills, confidence, and experience needed to succeed beyond the classroom and transition into meaningful employment. FDD is proud to support a program that helps students discover their strengths and build brighter futures.


Our Partnership in Action:


We’re proud to stand alongside Vista Hill in creating opportunities for students with significant challenges to discover their strengths, gain real-world skills, and contribute meaningfully to their communities. By funding job readiness programming at Stein Education Center, FDD is helping students build confidence and chart pathways to employment. When students are empowered to thrive, the entire community benefits.



Our Commitment to Lasting Impact—and How You Can Help


At FDD, we believe that lasting change requires more than funding—it takes partnership, shared vision, and a deep commitment to inclusion. Our grantees reflect this spirit, leading with innovation, compassion, and purpose.


Stay tuned as we continue to spotlight these impactful programs in action. Thank you for believing in every person's potential and the promise of what we can achieve together.


If this work inspires you, please consider donating to help us continue investing in programs that create opportunity, equity, and empowerment for our San Diego and Imperial County I/DD communities.






 
 
 
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