Since its inception in 1971, WCDC has served as a lifeline for adults with developmental disabilities - a bridge to friendship, work and independence. Our educational, social, vocational, and residential prorams are designed to encourage self-reliance, achievement, and economic independence. Services are based on an individual directed approach. Each program participant, with assistance from their team, chooses the serves and supports they receive. 

The Worcester County Developmental Center  is committed to empowering developmentally challenged adults in making individual choices in how they live and work in their communities.

• Provide leading-edge services that create opportunities for individuals with developmental challenges, and their families, to participate fully in the community
• Be recognized locally, and throughout the region, as a leader in providing quality work-environments for all persons with developmental challenges
• Be known for providing self-directed, person-centered, quality services
• Help residents of Worcester County and the region accept people with developmental challenges and welcome them in every part of community life

The principles identified in our vision are independence, productivity, and integration and inclusion.  All projects and activities of the WCDC programs shall be carried out in a manner consistent with these core principles.

INDEPENDENCE – Individuals with developmental disabilities and their families are the primary decision-makers regarding their rights and their lives, including services and supports they may receive.  They have decision-making roles in policies and programs that affect their lives.

PRODUCTIVITY- Individuals with developmental disabilities enjoy the opportunity to work, to contribute to society, and to pursue meaningful and productive lives.  

INTEGRATION/INCLUSION – Individuals with developmental disabilities have access to opportunities and the necessary support to be included in community life, have interdependent relationships, live in homes and communities, and make contributions to their families and community.  

Q: When was the Worcester County Developmental Center established?
A: The Worcester County Developmental Center was found on March 16, 1971. The Center began its operation on September 4, 1973 with an enrollment of nine individuals. The Center received funds in order to open the first group home 1978 with enrollment growing to 34 individuals.

Q: Who started the Developmental Center?
A: A small group of parents of individuals with developmental disabilities started the center. These groups of families were instrumental initially funding programs and also founded the local ARC (Association for Retarded Citizen).

Q: what types of service does the center provide?
A: Today the center provides a wide range of services to individuals with developmental disabilities that include:

• Day Service
• Vocational/Supported Employment
• Support Services
• Residential
• Social Opportunities
• Transportation Services
• Mental Health and General Health Services
• Food Services  

Q: Who is responsible for monitoring the fund raising program?
A: The Worcester County Developmental Center is a private; non-profit organization that was chartered for soliciting contributions to assist with funding the center's programs.

Q: Is the Worcester County Developmental Center ever audited?
A: Yes, an Independent audit is conducted annually. In addition, state auditors periodically examine financial records.

Q: Who manages the Worcester County Developmental Center?
A: Its board of directors ultimately governs the Worcester County Developmental Center, Inc., comprised of individuals from the local community.

Q: What is the geographic area that the Worcester County Developmental Center serves?
A: The Center focuses its services primarily on the Worcester County area while also accommodating attendee from surrounding countries.

Q: Does the center provide Transportation?
A: The Center provides Transportation covering all of Worcester County and shuttle service from Salisbury, leaving and returning to Holly Center. All vehicles arrive at the Day Pogram facility at 8:45am and leave in the afternoon at 2:45pm.