Innovative Research with a Vision for the Future

The Civitan International Research Center (CIRC) is an interdisciplinary center focusing on the development of the mind-brain through our unique mission of service, education and research.  The CIRC was founded in 1989 on the campus of the University of Alabama at Birmingham with the support of Civitan International - a volunteer service organization.

The CIRC Provides...

• opportunities for researchers to expand the current knowledge about human development and developmental disabilities by conducting basic, clinical and translational research
• high quality, best practice services and programs through the Civitan-Sparks Clinics and in the community
• interdisciplinary clinical and research training in developmental disabilities that values the participation of consumers and families

The Civitan Center's activities are guided by a strong commitment to values that recognize all people first as individuals. We endorse full inclusion for individuals with disabilities in all aspects of community life. Individuals with disabilities and their families play an important role in the Center's future by helping chart new directions for programs and services. Their collaboration is crucial to the Center's efforts to develop and maintain strong and productive partnerships in the community.

The CIRC is Alabama's University Center of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (UCEDD) and we offer clinical training opportunities through the Maternal and Child Health Bureau's (MCH) Leadership and Education in Neurodevelopmental and Related Disorders (LEND) program. In collaboration with our state sister organizations - the Alabama Council on Developmental Disabilities (ACDD) and the Alabama Disability Advocacy Program (ADAP) - the CIRC provides many important services for consumers and families throughout the state and region.