The Council is a state agency established to improve disability policies and practice, educate policymakers and the public, and build collaboration across public and private organizations. The Council is the only disability-focused agency with the power to guide change from the inside out. Ultimately, we're here to improve the lives of all Tennesseans with developmental disabilities. We do this by: -Amplifying the collective voice of the disability community. -Providing objective, informed guidance for policymakers. -Educating advocates across the state. -Launching programs that transform. -Tracking disability policy. -Building a more inclusive Tennessee. The heart of the Council on Developmental Disabilities is a group of governor-appointed members who provide vital perspective that informs our work at every level. These private citizens are people experiencing disability and their family members and represent the diversity of our state. They are joined on the Council by key members from the disability service network, both state agencies and private organizations. Examples of key Council projects include: -Partners in Policymaking - a free, seven-week leadership course for Tennesseans with disabilities or their family members. Attendees learn from local and national experts about policies and practices that impact them and the disability community, and learn how to effectively use their voices to impact policies for generations to come. -TN Disability Pathfinder - Tennessee's statewide information and referral service offers a central source where individuals can search, find, and connect with the disability services they need. Visit DisabilityPathfinder.org. -Inclusive Higher Education - The Council worked to establish non-degree programs at traditional colleges and universities, providing opportunities for students with intellectual disabilities to gain employment, social relationships, and independent living skills.