CDS

History

In the late 1970's, Western Michigan University joined discussion with the mental health community and the Greater Kalamazoo United Way, in an attempt to respond to a state mandate to care for people with disabiities in community settings rather than in institutions. Believing that education cannot be divorced from real life, WMU saw the joint sponsorship of a community agency to serve those with disabilities as ideal for integrating education, services, and research for the university to be a contributing participant in its own community. Today, WMU/CDS provides consumers with many service options that include physical therapy, occupational therapy, individual and group skill building through community inclusion activities, community living services, case managment/ support coordination, respite services, and day services to adults with Alzheimer's or dementia.

Mission and Vision

The mission of the Center for Disability Services is to help people with disabilities live life fully. Our vision is to make it possible for people with disabilities to become valued members of society.

Accreditation

WMU/CDS is fully accredited by the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabiltion Facilities in the areas of Community Support Services, Outpatient Medical Rehabilitation, Respite, and Adult Day Services. This national accreditation is the highest level of its type, and is awarded to organizations that show substantial fulfillment of rigid standards that ensures WMU/CDS services are of highest quality, measurable and accountable.

Education of University Students

WMU/CDS is a service component of the Western Michigan University's College of Health and Human Services. WMU/CDS provides students with training and supervision in the field of disabilities. This practical experiences also encourages students to pursue careers in related fields.