More than seven and a half million Americans of all ages experience mental retardation. One out of every 10 individuals in our country has a family member who has mental retardation. Mental retardation presents a major social, educational, health, and economic problem. The President's Committee on Mental Retardation (PCMR) was established in 1966 to focus on this critical subject of national concern.

The PCMR acts in an advisory capacity to the President and the Secretary of Health and Human Services on matters relating to programs and services for people with mental retardation. It evaluates the adequacy of current practices and programs for people with mental retardation. PCMR also coordinates federal agency activities in mental retardation, highlights the need for appropriate changes, promotes research, and promotes the training of people who provide direct support services to persons with mental retardation.

The Committee conducts forums and publishes numerous publications in the field of mental retardation. Major publications include: Opportunities for Excellence: Supporting the Frontline Workforce (1996); Collaborating for Inclusion: Report to the President (1995); The Journey to Inclusion: A Resource Guide for State Policy Makers (1995); State Collaboration for Community Membership (1995); Report to the President: A Journey of Renewal for All Americans (1994); The National Reform Agenda and People with Mental Retardation: Putting People First (1994); and Report to the President: The National Effort to Prevent Mental Retardation and Related Disabilities (1993).

In 1995, the President's Committee embarked on a five year project using an innovative public education approach. Annual academies on mental retardation--with participation by state delegations--encourage team building and state planning for life-long community involvement and participation by persons with mental retardation. The first PCMR National Collaborative Academy on Mental Retardation was convened in September, 1995. Composition of the PCMR

The Committee consists of 21 citizen members, appointed by the President, and six public members, including: the Secretaries of Health and Human Services, Housing and Urban Development, Labor, and Education; the Attorney General; and the President and CEO of the Corporation for National and Community Service. The members undertake Committee duties in addition to their daily occupations as professionals in the field of mental retardation, related developmental disabilities, and allied areas of study.

The PCMR meets quarterly and has established the following subcommittees: Federal Policy; Federal Research and Demonstration; State Policy Collaboration; Minority and Cultural Diversity Issues; and Mission and Public Awareness. They identify Federal policy areas where PCMR can enhance the well-being of people with mental retardation; encourage Federal research and demonstration; assist in planning and conducting state policy academies and promote partnerships to meet local needs; encourage multi-cultural and minority perspectives; and promote awareness about PCMR's mission and inclusion of people with mental retardation and their families in its activities.