American Academy for Cerebral Palsy and Developmental Medicine

Leading the way to optimal quality of life for children with cerebral palsy and other developmental disabilities through professional education, research and advocacy. Our values are family-centered, collaborative, excellence.

How do you help people in my community?

The AACPDM helps children with disabilities in all communities by developing research, educating the medical community, working with families, and always looking for ways to assure that each child achieves his/her full potential. 

Why do you need my support?

Cerebral palsy is not a curable disease and therefore people are more inclined to contribute to ?cures?.  They must not forget that cerebral palsy is life-long and that with proper care, therapy, and family support, children with cerebral palsy can live happy productive lives.  That is why continued research is essential to improve lives.  Research has come a long way to give hope to families and these children.  Many children would have been put in ?homes? without the research that allows families to keep them at home.  Children who would have died at a young age are living into productive adulthood.

How can I be sure that you will use my money wisely and won't waste it?

The money contributed is looked after by a professional staff and a Board of Directors made up of dedicated professionals.  The separation of duties assures many eyes watch over expenditures.  Contributed monies are put in a restricted fund and used only for research projects reviewed by the Research Committee.  These research projects must meet very strict criteria.  One of the on-going projects is a series of evidence-based papers that can be accessed on our website;  www.aacpdm.org

Can I Volunteer? How?

If you wish to volunteer there are opportunities at your local cerebral palsy clinic, Shriners Hospitals, or children?s hospitals.