LDA’s Vision
LDA visualizes a world in which learning disabilities are universally understood, so all individuals are accepted, supported, and empowered to live a self-determined life.
LDA’s Mission
LDA’s mission is to create opportunities for success for all individuals affected by learning disabilities through support, education, and advocacy.
What LDA Does To Accomplish Its Mission
- Promote Prevention
We believe that the number of individuals affected by learning disabilities can be reduced with an effective, comprehensive prevention plan. We encourage research that seeks to identify the causes of learning disabilities and disseminate research findings which could lead to the reduction of the incidence of learning disabilities. - Foster Research in Best Practices
We encourage ongoing research efforts into recognition, assessment and intervention strategies throughout the lifespan. We monitor and disseminate these research findings. - Encourage Identification
Too many people go through life unidentified. We advocate for early identification, which increases the possibility of successful intervention. We will continue to advocate for access to identification throughout the lifespan. - Support Intervention
We strongly support best practice interventions for individuals with learning disabilities throughout the lifespan. - Protect Rights
We are committed to advocating for and protecting the rights of all individuals with learning disabilities. This includes legislative advocacy for laws to improve and preserve the rights of all individuals as well as individual advocacy.
Read our 2021-2022 Annual Report here.
History of LDA
In 1963, a resourceful group of parents convened a conference in Chicago entitled “Exploration into the Problems of the Perceptually Handicapped Child.” The professionals that participated and these parents shared a common concern: the recognition of the dire need for services for their children, services that did not exist. During the months that followed, many preliminary details towards formation of a national organization were worked out. With a core of volunteers agreeing to become its nucleus, the Association for Children with Learning Disabilities (ACLD), now known as The Learning Disabilities Association of America, was created and incorporated in January, 1964.
LDA Staff, Directors, and Officers
Contact members of the LDA National Office and learn more about the professionals and experts who serve LDA as members of its governing and advisory boards.
Partnerships
LDA engages in an array of ongoing collaborative activities that support the organization’s work on behalf of individuals with learning disabilities.
Click here to learn more about the organizations which partner with LDA
