Partners for Inclusive Communities

Formerly known as the University Affiliated Program, we are Arkansas' University Center on Disabilities.  Partners is a program of the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) and receives federal funding from the Administration on Developmental Disabilities and other agencies to conduct research and provide education, training, technical assistance, information, and services to people with disabilities, their families, students and professionals involved with disability related programs. Partners' activities are constantly evolving to reflect the priorities of individuals with disabilities.

Partner's Mission:
To support individuals with disabilities
and families of children with disabilities
to fully and meaningfully participate
in community life, effect systems change,
prevent disabilities and promote healthy lifestyles.

Our Beliefs and Values:

Individuals with disabilities are people first, with the same needs and desires as other people. Disability is a natural and normal part of the human experience that in no way diminishes a person’s right to fully participate in all aspects of society.

All people, including those with disabilities, have the right to:

• live free of abuse, neglect, exploitation and violations of their legal and human rights.

• exert control and choice over their own lives.

• live where and with whom they choose.

• develop interdependent friendships and relationships as they participate in and contribute to their communities.

• receive services and supports that strengthen families and demonstrate respect for individual dignity, personal preferences, and cultural differences.

• receive quality education in inclusive settings.

• pursue gainful employment based on their interests and strengths.

• fully access the economic, political, social, cultural, religious and educational activities in their communities.

• All people have the right to pursue their dreams. They have the right to succeed and the right to fail.

These rights are set forth in the Developmental Disabilities Assistance and Bill of Rights Act (Public Law 106-402). These beliefs are embedded throughout Partners’ services and activities.

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Contact Us
Partners for Inclusive Communities
David Deere,  M.S.W., M.Th., Director
2001 Pershing Circle, Suite 300 ● North Little Rock, AR 72114
501-682-9900 (V) ● 501-682-9902 (TDD) ● 1-800-342-2923 (V/TDD)
501-682-9901 (Fax)
E-mail us at Partners@uams.edu