The Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative (GIDDI) was established at FGCU through funding from the Golisano Foundation. It was created to enhance communication among Southwest Florida agencies serving individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities of all ages and to identify gaps and needs for supports and services within this population. When these gaps and needs are identified, GIDDI partners with local organizations to help build programs, services, and infrastructure that improve the quality and quantity of services and support available to those in need. GIDDI helps connect FGCU faculty, students, and staff with the area community to build a workforce with improved skills and awareness of the unique needs of those with IDD, making FGCU a welcoming campus and a support for their success. GIDDI provides opportunities and collaborates with campus units to maximize support for students with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities, enabling them to thrive.
Mission:
To serve as a regional conveyor of supports and services related to improving the lives of people with Autism and Intellectual/Developmental Disabilities (IDD) within the FGCU and Southwest Florida community.
Vision
FGCU and Southwest Florida will be a rich environment for individuals who are neurodivergent to live and thrive.
Who Has an IDD?
3%
Of the population
21%
Of Undergraduate students
11%
Of Graduate students
-
References
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How does FGCU GIDDI make it possible?
With Students
The Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative (GIDDI) is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive environment at FGCU and throughout the Southwest Florida community. Students are welcome to get involved through on-campus events such as GIDDI Nights. GIDDI Nights offer our students meaningful indoor and outdoor events that incorporate educational components through interactive and social bonding activities. GIDDI also serves as a resource center for anyone at FGCU to discover and connect with local agencies that support the special needs community both on campus and throughout Southwest Florida.
With Parents and Caregivers
The Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative (GIDDI) is dedicated to provide support and education to the parents and caregivers in the community through forming a collaboration between Southwest Florida partners, ultimately becoming a hub for those who are willing to be accepting of individuals with unique abilities.
With Everyone
The Golisano Intellectual & Developmental Disability Initiative (GIDDI) provides educational lectures, presentations, and symposiums where the community can learn about the necessary efforts to make FGCU and Southwest Florida a more welcoming place for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, and how to join the endeavor.
Contact Us
Golisano Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Initiative
10501 FGCU Blvd.
Fort Myers, FL 33965
Phone: (239) 745-4272
Email: giddi@fgcu.edu
Support FGCU's Golisano Intellectual Developmental Disabilities Initiative
