Sonoma Developmental Center (SDC) is a residential facility serving individuals with developmental disabilities. The facility is governed by the California Department of Developmental Services. SDC is committed to providing quality care and support for individuals who require specialized services. SDC's working philosophy is based on valuing the quality of people's lives and on the belief that continuous improvement is possible. To improve the quality of people's lives, SDC encourages all aspects of growth and progress, with emphasis on citizenship, advocacy, rights, decision making, and independence. Additionally, the Center promotes an atmosphere where services and treatment are provided with dignity and respect.
Sonoma Developmental Center opened for business on November, 1891 as the culmination of a ten-year project on the part of two prominent Northern California women who had children with developmental disabilities (Julia Judah and Frances Bentley formed the California Association for the Care and Training of Feeble Minded Children). The first facility opened in May 1884, at White Sulphur Springs near Vallejo but because it was overwhelmed by problems it was soon relocated to Santa Clara followed to where it stands today. The facility at Eldridge has undergone many significant changes, including four name changes finally adopting its current name in 1986.
Sonoma Developmental Center constantly improves its services by making use of the current knowledge, expertise, and technology available in all relevant areas. This is accomplished by using an interdisciplinary approach with licensed staff. SDC is licensed by the State of California to provide three levels of care: Acute, Nursing (NF), and Intermediate Care Facility (ICF). SDC?s Medical Services consists of the General Acute Care Unit; Podiatry, Dental and Medical Clinics (Outpatient Services); Pharmacy; Radiology; Employee Assistance Program; Public Health; Laboratory; and the Anesthesia Service. The most important goal of these Medical Services is to provide first-class health care to the clients of Sonoma Developmental Center.