Every person deserves the opportunity to live a fulfilling life on their own terms—pursuing meaningful work, building relationships, participating in their community, and making choices about daily routines and future goals. For individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, the right supports make the difference between simply getting by and truly thriving. DDD services New Jersey families access through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) waiver programs are designed to turn the vision of independent, meaningful living into reality. Priority Group Services delivers these services with deep expertise, compassion, and a strong commitment to person-centered care across New Jersey.
What “Living Your Best Life” Really Means
“Living your best life” looks different for everyone. For some, it means holding a meaningful job, living independently, and spending time with friends. For others, it may involve volunteering, participating in recreational programs, or living in a supportive home environment while staying closely connected to family. What unites all these paths is self-determination—the right to make choices about one’s own life.
Developmental disabilities can create challenges, but they do not erase the human need for purpose, growth, and connection. Modern DDD services New Jersey offers are built around this understanding. Rather than focusing only on safety and basic care, today’s DDD system emphasizes quality of life, community inclusion, and personal goals. Priority Group Services embraces this approach by supporting individuals not just to live safely, but to live well.
Understanding New Jersey’s DDD System
New Jersey’s Division of Developmental Disabilities operates under the Department of Human Services and provides Medicaid-funded home and community-based services. These DDD services New Jersey residents rely on are intended to help individuals with developmental disabilities live in their communities instead of institutional settings.
To qualify, an individual must have a developmental disability that began before age 22, causes substantial functional limitations in at least three major life areas, and is expected to be lifelong. Eligible conditions include intellectual disabilities, autism spectrum disorders, cerebral palsy, neurological impairments, and certain genetic conditions.
DDD supports individuals across the lifespan—from young adults transitioning out of school to older adults managing both disability-related and age-related needs. Services are flexible and designed to evolve as goals and circumstances change.
Community-Based Support: The Foundation of Independence
Community-based support is the backbone of effective DDD services New Jersey provides. These services help individuals succeed in their homes and communities by addressing daily living skills, independence, and social participation.
Supports may include assistance with personal care, meal preparation, housekeeping, budgeting, medication management, and community navigation. Beyond completing tasks, skilled support staff focus on teaching and skill-building, helping individuals gain confidence and independence over time. A person who initially needs full assistance may gradually learn to manage routines independently with the right guidance.
Priority Group Services creates individualized support plans that reflect each person’s living situation, preferences, and long-term goals. This person-centered approach ensures services are meaningful, respectful, and effective.
Supported Employment: Pathways to Purpose and Income
Employment plays a critical role in independence, self-esteem, and community inclusion. Supported employment is a key component of comprehensive DDD services New Jersey, helping individuals overcome barriers to competitive, integrated work.
The process begins with discovery—understanding an individual’s strengths, interests, and ideal work environment. Employment specialists then work with local employers to identify opportunities that align with these profiles. Job coaching provides hands-on support during onboarding, while long-term follow-along services help individuals maintain and grow in their roles.
The goal is always competitive employment in typical workplace settings, earning real wages and building real careers. Successful employment leads to financial independence, social connection, and a strong sense of purpose.
Transportation: Access to Community Life
Reliable transportation is essential for community participation. Without it, access to jobs, healthcare, social activities, and daily necessities becomes limited. Transportation supports are therefore a vital part of DDD services New Jersey.
Services may include travel training for public transportation, accompanied travel with support staff, or coordination with specialized transportation providers. Priority Group Services works with individuals and families to develop practical, reliable transportation plans that support independence and consistency.
Respite Services: Supporting Families and Caregivers
Family caregivers play an essential role, but caregiving can be physically and emotionally demanding. Respite services—another core element of DDD services New Jersey—provide temporary relief that helps families sustain long-term caregiving relationships.
Respite may be delivered in the home or in community settings and can range from a few hours to several days. High-quality respite benefits everyone: caregivers gain rest and balance, while individuals receive engaging, supportive care in a safe environment.
Priority Group Services offers respite staffed by trained, compassionate professionals, giving families peace of mind and the freedom to recharge.
Therapeutic Services That Build Skills
Occupational and physical therapy support individuals in developing functional skills that enhance independence and safety. As part of holistic DDD services New Jersey, therapy focuses on real-world outcomes—improving daily routines, mobility, and confidence.
Occupational therapy may address self-care, household tasks, social skills, and vocational readiness. Physical therapy focuses on strength, balance, mobility, and endurance. Priority Group Services employs licensed therapists experienced in developmental disabilities, ensuring therapy is engaging, practical, and person-centered.
Career Planning for Long-Term Success
Career planning looks beyond immediate job placement to long-term professional growth. Within DDD services New Jersey, career planning helps individuals explore interests, set achievable goals, and build step-by-step plans toward meaningful careers.
This service is especially valuable for young adults transitioning from school to adult services, ensuring they pursue intentional career paths rather than settling for limited options.
Why Choose Priority Group Services
Priority Group Services is a trusted provider of DDD services New Jersey families depend on. Our approach combines professional expertise with genuine compassion, emphasizing person-centered planning, strong communication, and flexibility.
We partner closely with individuals and families, adapting services as needs and goals evolve. Our recognition as Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses alumni and MBDA partners reflects our commitment to excellence, accountability, and community impact.
Taking the Next Step
If you or your loved one is seeking high-quality, person-centered DDD services New Jersey, Priority Group Services is ready to help. Contact us to learn more about eligibility, service options, and how we can support greater independence, community connection, and quality of life.
With the right supports, living your best life is possible. Priority Group Services is proud to help individuals across New Jersey turn goals into achievements and potential into lasting success.
