Who we are

We are dedicated to empowering individuals to exercise their rights as citizens, actively participate in their communities, and foster meaningful relationships. Our mission is to strengthen natural support systems, including families, while enabling people to make informed choices and take control of their personal affairs. We work to assist individuals in achieving positive, desirable futures, while promoting dignity, respect, and a sense of belonging for everyone we serve.

Our History

  • In 1973 a group of interested citizens formed the organization as the Dickson County Adult Activity Center supporting 18 individuals with intellectual disabilities. 


  • The 1980s were years of growth and development:
  • In 1981 an early intervention program began
  • In 1982 the name of the organization was changed to “Developmental Services of Dickson County”
  • Two group homes were built 
  • In 1986 supported employment began
  • In 1987 opened three homes for people leaving an institution


  • The 1990s were a decade of change lead by a new vision of how and where supports should be provided:
  • In 1991 people were supported in 22 community employers and in 4 group work sites
  • 1992 13 people were supported in their own apartments
  • 1993 the Family Support Program began
  • 1993 announced plans to close the sheltered workshop and support people in more integrated services.
  • 1994 Agency mission statement to “Building and Inclusive Community”
  • Developed a “Team” structure to better align management to the new service model.
  • 1994 Moved all early intervention services to home and community based 


  • The 2000s were primarily years of continued growth, including:
  • In 2000 a new office building was developed bringing all of the administrative staff together.
  • 2001 began the Child Resource and Referral Center working with child care centers across the region.


  • The 2010s were years of ongoing quality improvement, including:
  • 2013 merged with The Arc of Dickson County becoming an affiliated chapter of The Arc Tennessee and The Arc US
  • 2016 agency achieved national accreditation thru CQL the Council on Quality and Leadership


  • The 2020s continue with a focus on accreditation, including:
  • 2023 completed SHIFT accreditation on enabling technology
  • 2024 completed reaccreditation with CQL
  • 2024 began DIDD Person-Centered Organization process
  • Developmental Services of Dickson Celebrated 50 years of service . 


Board of Directors

A silhouette of a woman without a face on a white background.

Kevin Smith

Chairperson

A silhouette of a man in a suit and tie without a face

Kyle Sanders

Vice Chair Person

A silhouette of a woman without a face on a white background.

Liz Deweese

Secretary

A silhouette of a woman without a face on a white background.

Kane Sesler

Treasurer

Accreditations & Affiliations

The logo for the council on quality and leadership
A logo for an affiliated chapter of the arc
A red and white logo for tennessee community organizations
A purple sign that says shift accredited technology first oct 2023 oct 2025