Providing services to adults with developmental disabilities in Sacramento and Stockton California since 1975

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Who We Are

Developmental Disabilities Service Organization (DDSO), one of the most respected nonprofits in the Sacramento and San Joaquin Valley Regions, provides a wide range of services including residential care to day programs, for adults with developmental disabilities.

DDSO was established in 1975, a time when society's common response to those with developmental disabilities was one of disregard. Mary Short, wife of California Senator Alan Short, was an accomplished photographer who used her skills to capture the expressions of joy from Special Olympics athletes. She became a strong advocate for people with disabilities.

In 1976, Mary Short founded the Alan Short Center (ASC) in Stockton. Her vision was to give people with developmental disabilities the opportunity to work side by side with professional artists. DDSO's innovative approach utilized visual and performing arts as a vehicle for teaching other life skills to people with developmental disabilities.

DDSO continues to be a strong presence in the community, carrying on its mission to enhance the quality of life for persons with developmental disabilties by creating options which foster individual growth using the arts as one of its primary modalities.