Congratulations to Eric Thompson of Jackson County who was recently named Oregon's Special Olympics Athlete of the Year. Eric accepted the award from Ahmad Rashad at the Oregon Sports Awards ceremony.

"Retard(ed)" is one of those words often unwittingly used to denote behavior that is clumsy, hapless and even hopeless. But it is also a painful stereotype used to classify and segregate people with intellectual disabilities.

At DHS, we strive to support choices of individuals with disabilities and their families within communities by promoting and providing services that are person-centered and directed, flexible, community inclusive, and supportive of the discovery and development of each individual's unique gifts, talents and abilities. We are committed to providing service options to assure that people with developmental disabilities have the opportunity to have lives that are fulfilling and meaningful.

Are you confused by the topic of abuse? Can you recognize it when it happens? Learn how to make sense of the Community Abuse Rule by watching this exciting new video, produced for families and friends.