Partnership for People with Disabilities

Website: https://virginialend.partnership.vcu.edu/

Overview

The Va-LEND program is committed to the preparation of professionals, family members and people with disabilities statewide in the field of childhood neurodevelopmental disabilities who will assume leadership roles within health care and disability service systems. The interdisciplinary program provides a 12-24 month curriculum of interactive seminars, clinical and community-based practica, planned grassroots and systems level policy activities, and for most trainees, a family mentorship experience. The curriculum emphasizes all aspects of neurodevelopmental and related disabilities, social and family environments across the life course, the interdisciplinary approach, leadership and research.

Major Objectives

1. Advance the knowledge and skills of all child health professionals to improve health care delivery systems for children with developmental disabilities
2. Provide high-quality interdisciplinary education that emphasizes the integration of services from state and local agencies and organizations, private providers, and communities
3. Provide health professionals with skills that foster community-based partnerships
4. Promote innovative practices to enhance cultural competency, family-centered care, and interdisciplinary partnerships

Funding Sources

• Maternal and Child Health Bureau (MCHB)

Contact

Matt Bogenschutz, Principal Investigator
mdbogenschut@vcu.edu