About NAQOur History:
We realize that not all states use the term "QIDP". These exceptional developmental disability professionals go by many names - QDDPs, Case Managers, and Service Coordinators to name just a few. We worry less about their title and more about their function. Formal titles aside, these disability professionals fulfill a variety of roles - from advocate to educator to leader. They are resilient in the face of challenge. They are uncompromising in the provision of person directed supports. Our Mission: To promote, protect, and advance the interests of disability professionals in service, application, research, and other means of improving human welfare. Our Goals: The goals of this organization are to:
NAQ Name Changes: When it was founded in 1996, NAQ was known as The National Association of Qualified Mental Retardation Professionals (QMRPs). Since that time, most states have turned away from using the term mental retardation except for diagnostic or reporting requirements - largely in response to the work of self advocates. As a result, in 2009 we made the decision to change our name to the National Association of Qualified Developmental Disability Professionals (QDDPs). Then, in 2018 we decided to once again change our name to come into alignment with federal terminology. We are now known as The National Association of Qualified Intellectual Disability Professionals (QIDPs). Though the organization’s name has changed, NAQ’s commitment to providing high quality services and supports to persons with intellectual disabilities has not waivered. |