Welcome to the LEAG page (pronounced “leeg,” like “League of Nations” ). Formerly known as the Consumer Advisory Committee, the Department is introducing the LEAG to modernize how we hear from people getting regional center services. These changes will help us make sure we’re keeping up with the needs of our community:
- We’re no longer using the word “consumer” in our name – the CAC is now the Lived Experience Advisory Group (LEAG)
- We’re increasing the number of members and making sure there are LEAG members from diverse backgrounds
- We’re making it easier to participate. We know everyone is busy and can’t always dedicate a lot of time to participate in groups like this. You can just sign up to help on topics you are interested in. This will allow you some flexibility on what you choose to work on as a LEAG member.
What does LEAG do?
LEAG members inform the Department on issues important to Californians with intellectual and developmental disabilities and bring information from their communities to DDS. LEAG is also a way for DDS to share important information about new policies or programs to communities all over California.
LEAG members will be selected for a 1-year term that is renewable at the Director’s discretion. LEAG does not have formal bylaws, or officer positions, though members may have opportunities to assist with meeting roles and responsibilities. LEAG meetings will be welcoming, respectful, follow an agenda and start and stop on time. Agendas will be shared in advance so members can prepare their input.
LEAG will meet twice a year for about 2 hours. The 2 meetings a year will be open to the public and you can join in-person and online by Zoom. In between the two full membership meetings, there will be chances for LEAG members to advise in smaller groups on different topics.
The topics DDS plans to ask LEAG members about include, but are not limited to:
- Expanding employment opportunities for people with disabilities
- How to measure service outcomes (how do we know if people have good services?)
- How to help people understand what data is and come up with better ways to collect information
- Reviewing and improving Department documents using plain language
- Peer-to-peer education and support opportunities
- Preventing abuse and protecting individuals
- Providing input on service choices available through regional centers
- Updating publications
The smaller LEAG groups will meet over Zoom or ask for your input by email or phone.
Interested in joining LEAG? Please fill out this online form.
Last modified: May 28, 2025
