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ABOUT
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILATIES MINISTRIES 

Developmental Disabilities Ministries (DDM) is a faith-based nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals with developmental disabilities. Since 1981, DDM has provided compassionate residential care, family support, and community services rooted in Christian values. Through a network of homes across Georgia, DDM creates safe, nurturing environments where individuals can achieve their highest potential socially, physically, emotionally, and spiritually. With a commitment to dignity, respect, and excellence, DDM partners with families and communities to foster meaningful lives for those they serve, ensuring everyone is valued as a beloved child of God.

OUR HISTORY

1975–1980 | The Vision is Born

  • 1975: Parents in Augusta meet with the Georgia Baptist Convention to advocate for residential ministry for adults with developmental disabilities.

  • 1976: Georgia Baptist Convention approves the resolution to create the ministry.

  • 1980: Georgia Baptist Children’s Homes accepts responsibility for development.

 

1981–1990 | First Homes & Growing Partnerships

  • 1981: First group home opens in Harlem, GA.

  • 1982–1986: Additional homes open in Augusta, Decatur, Calhoun, and Forsyth.

  • 1988: First purpose-built DDM home donated in Alpharetta; apartment program begins.

  • 1989: Three more homes established in Avondale Estates, Brinson, and Pelham.

 

1991–1999 | Statewide Expansion & Independence

  • 1991–1993: Homes open in Statham, Decatur (Medicaid Waiver), and Canton.

  • 1998–1999: DDM becomes an independent Georgia Baptist Convention agency.

  • 1999: Don Duvall Home dedicated in Bainbridge; DDM incorporated as nonprofit.

 

2000–2007 | Recognition & Transitions

  • 2000: First DDM Awareness Day; Central Office in Duluth dedicated.

  • 2002: DDM earns first CARF accreditation (maximum 3 years).

  • 2004–2006: Name officially changes to Developmental Disabilities Ministries, Inc.; celebrates 25th anniversary.

  • 2007: Richard C. Davis retires after 25 years; William T. Neal III becomes President/CEO.

 

2008–2014 | New Programs & Strengthened Services

  • 2008–2010: New church partnerships; Opening New Worlds Conference launches; Special Needs Family Retreat begins.

  • 2011: Largest grant to date—$300,000 from Woodruff Foundation.

  • 2012–2014: New homes open in Jasper and Rome; annual Residents’ Camp at Camp Twin Lakes begins.​

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2015–2017 | Change, Challenge, and Renewal

  • 2015: Dr. Greg DeLoach elected as 3rd President; new logo “Where Hope Lives” adopted.

  • 2016: Paul Home fire recovery; 19 homes in operation.

  • 2017: Financial crisis averted; CARF accreditation renewed for the 5th time; Ryan Whitmire named 4th President.

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