In Fall 2024, Bexar County nonprofits formed a coalition to address gaps in support for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD), sparked by input from the Texas Cavaliers and interest from a major Texas foundation.
In December 2024, key stakeholders, including ABC of Southwest Texas, Brighton Center, Morgan's Multi-Assistance Center, Respite Care of San Antonio, The Arc of San Antonio, and SA Life Academy, launched a community-centered participatory study to identify immediate needs and long-term priorities for families and individuals with IDD. A comprehensive survey in Spring 2025 gathered over 800 responses from caregivers, educators, and community members.
To download the summary of the IDD Champions Community Survey and the full IDD Champions report, click the links below.
May 2026: From Research to Action
What the Research Tells Us — And What We’re Doing About It
The IDD Champions Community Survey didn’t stop at data collection. In May 2026, the coalition published three targeted white papers translating findings into action — for medical professionals, economic and policy leaders, and early childhood advocates. Together, they make the case that investing in individuals with IDD and their families is both a moral and economic imperative for Bexar County.
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The Lasting Effects of Fragmented Care
Nearly half of families surveyed waited more than a year for a diagnosis. Almost 50% said coordination between providers was ineffective. This white paper presents the clinical consequences of fragmented care and offers concrete recommendations for physicians, specialists, and healthcare systems to close the gaps — from shared care plans and warm referrals to inclusive clinical environments and early diagnosis protocols.
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The Economic Case for Supporting Individuals with IDD in Bexar County
32% of caregivers have quit their jobs. 43% of Direct Support Professional positions in Bexar County go unfilled. Texas Medicaid spent $754 million on potentially preventable emergency department visits in 2022 alone. This white paper quantifies the real cost of inaction — and shows that strategic investment in IDD supports returns an average of $7.40 for every dollar spent.
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The Smartest Investment: Expanding Access to High-Quality Early Childhood Education
Only 36% of children under age five in Bexar County are enrolled in licensed early education programs. For the 13% of young children experiencing developmental delays or disabilities, missing this window has lifelong consequences. This white paper examines the barriers — cost, workforce shortages, lack of inclusive classrooms — and outlines solutions that benefit every child, every family, and the region’s long-term economic health.
The Bottom Line
These white papers represent the voice of more than 800 Bexar County families, caregivers, educators, and service providers. They are tools for advocacy — designed to be shared with doctors, employers, elected officials, funders, and community leaders who have the power to move from awareness to action.
The IDD Champions Coalition — Brighton Center, The MAC, Respite Care of San Antonio, The Arc of San Antonio, and SA Life Academy — invites you to use them.