MEET A LEADER IN OUR COMMUNITY: VALARIE BISHOP
At BRIDGED, we believe in bringing awareness to resources in our community and connecting individuals and families to those resources. Today, we’re highlighting Valarie Bishop, Executive Director of the South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council, through a Q+A conversation focused on impact, advocacy and how YOU can get involved.
Q: What do you wish people knew about THE SC DDC?
Valarie:
“I wish that more people knew about the [South Carolina Developmental Disabilities] Council and what we do. We are always looking to make new connections and collaborations with organizations.”
BRIDGED Tip:
The South Carolina Developmental Disabilities Council (SC DDC) plays a key role in funding initiatives, shaping policy and strengthening systems that support individuals with disabilities. If you’re a parent, professional or organization, collaboration with SC DDC can open doors to funding, training and statewide impact.
👉 Don’t wait to “be invited.” Reach out to Valarie at Valarie.Bishop@admin.sc.gov to introduce yourself.
Q: As you reflect on Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, what impacts are you most proud of?
Valarie:
“Having so many people come to Disability Advocacy Day to get their voices heard. How my sneaky friends supported my Advocate of the Year Award. I loved sharing it with so many people there that I’ve worked with.”
BRIDGED Tip:
Advocacy starts with showing up and events like Disability Advocacy Day prove how powerful collective voices can be.
👉 If you’ve ever felt unsure about speaking up, start small:
Attend an advocacy event (here are two we recommend: Disability Advocacy Day and Advocacy Day for Access and Independence)
Share your story with a trusted friend
Connect with others who “get it”
Those small steps build confidence and lead to real change.
Q: What can you share about the direction of SC DDC’s new State Plan?
Valarie:
“The new State Plan will have similar goal areas—Employment, Community Supports and Advocacy. We will work on increasing advocacy and health and community living for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.”
BRIDGED Tip:
These focus areas directly impact what services, supports, and opportunities will be prioritized across South Carolina.
To view the current SC DDC State Plan, click here.
👉 When state plans are being developed or implemented, your voice matters. Public input shapes priorities—so stay engaged. If you are on SC DDC’s mailing list, you can be part of shaping future State Plans. Subscribe to their mailing list here.
Q: How can someone get involved with SC DDC?
Valarie:
“We always have Council openings that will be posted on our website. Reach out and let us know what you are interested in and we can connect you.”
BRIDGED Tip:
This is your reminder: You don’t have to be an expert to get involved.
Serving on councils, committees or advisory groups gives you a direct voice in shaping systems and policies. We’re grateful for leaders like Valarie Bishop who are committed to strengthening systems, elevating voices and creating meaningful change across South Carolina.
👉 If you’ve ever thought, “Someone should fix this…” — that someone can be YOU! To learn more about getting involved in the SC DDC, contact Valarie at Valarie.Bishop@admin.sc.gov.
