Eric Beidel

The Executive Committee meeting agenda included a review of the agenda itself, an update from the Executive Director, review of the Agency Fiscal Report, and an update on the new Board Meeting Venue and Dates. A significant item was the recruitment process for the new Executive Director. The committee also planned for their respective committee agendas.

The Board convened, discussing and unanimously approving electronic participation for six members due to personal circumstances. Key activities included the Executive Director's update on the agency move to a new office location, special initiatives, and welcoming new administrative and communications staff. The fiscal report confirmed the agency is operating under the 2025 federal award, awaiting the 2026 award due to a federal shutdown. The Board reviewed and approved the Electronic Meeting and Participation Policy annually, in anticipation of the next all-virtual Board meeting in March 2026. Discussions addressed the federal budget, continuing resolution status, and potential impacts on local services. Committee chairs provided updates on ongoing work. The main Board session focused on reviewing and approving the release of the Draft State Plan goals and objectives for a 45-Day public comment period, including an amendment to a Health Goal objective. A presentation on the Freedom of Information Act rules for meetings was provided. The Investment Committee recommended approval for the renewal of a grant from the Department for Aging and Rehabilitative Services (DARS) and approved funding of $200,000 to Virginia Commonwealth University for a dental care project. The Policy Advisory Committee received a presentation on the Individual and Family Support Program (IFSP) and the Community of Practice for Supporting Families. Committee discussions also addressed future topics such as mental health/self-care resources.

The meetings covered a range of topics including the approval of virtual participation for board members, an overview of the State Plan development process, and a presentation on Freedom of Information Act rules. There were also discussions on the electronic participation policy, federal budget and policy updates, and committee agendas. Reports were given from the Investment Committee, Advocacy, Outreach, and Training Committee, and the Policy Advisory Committee. Topics included a grant renewal application, funding for dental services, communications activities, training programs, and the Individual and Family Support Program.

This document outlines the draft goals and objectives for the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities, serving as a strategic roadmap for the period of October 2026 to September 2031. The plan focuses on four main strategic pillars: enhancing community services and housing, improving education and employment opportunities, ensuring access to health and well-being services, and strengthening self-advocacy skills. The overarching aim is to empower Virginians with developmental disabilities to live independently, participate fully in their communities, and lead their own lives.

This document is the 2026 update to the five-year State Plan for the Virginia Board for People with Disabilities, outlining its commitment to fostering independence, self-determination, and full community participation for individuals with disabilities. The plan is structured around four primary goals: enhancing access to community supports, improving health and safety services, promoting inclusion in education and employment, and strengthening self-advocacy capabilities for people with disabilities and their families. The Board pursues these objectives through policy advocacy, grant projects, and advocacy training.