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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Developmental Disability?
A developmental disability is defined as a disability
that occurs before the age of 18, is substantially
disabling for an individual, and is expected to continue
indefinitely. Developmental disabilities include mental
retardation, cerebral palsy, epilepsy and autism. Also
included are disabling conditions closely related to
mental retardation or requiring similar treatment.
Who is eligible for services?
An individual is eligible for Serra Center services
if he or she has a developmental disability and is 18
years of age or older.
How can I receive services from Serra Center?
If you are a client of the Regional Center, you can
request that your case manager contact Serra Center to
make a referral for you to receive services.
After Serra Center receives the information that your
case manager sends, we will review it and contact you to
schedule a time to meet with you.
Otherwise, for more information about receiving
services from Serra Center or to schedule an
introductory meeting, please call Lisa at (510)
608-3900, ext. 101.
How are services paid?
The State of California has a
commitment to provide services
and supports to individuals with
developmental disabilities
throughout their lifetime.
Services and supports are
provided through a combination
of federal, state, county and
local government services.
Additional
support is provided through donations by caring friends,
private businesses, churches, foundations, support
groups, volunteers and others who give to Serra Center.
What is the Regional Center and what services do
they provide?
The Regional Centers are private,
non-profit corporations under contract with the
California Department of Developmental Services. There
are 21 Regional Centers around the state. They work in
partnership with many individuals and other agencies to
plan and coordinate services and supports for people
with developmental disabilities such as: case
management, service referral and funding, individual
program planning, service monitoring, counseling and
advocacy.
A community-based Board of Directors - which
includes individuals with developmental disabilities,
family members and community leaders - provides guidance
and leadership. Typically, individuals who receive
services from Serra Center are a client of the Regional
Center. However, Serra Center also serves individuals
on a private pay basis. For more information on the
Regional Center services for Alameda and Contra Costa
Counties, contact Regional Center of the East Bay at
www.rceb.org
or (510) 383-1200.
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