Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) - Comprehensive Profile
Overview
The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities (APD) is an independent government entity focused on supporting individuals with developmental disabilities throughout Florida. Since its establishment in October 2004, separate from the Department of Children and Families, APD has purposed its mission to enable individuals with unique abilities to thrive in their communities. The agency offers a variety of support services, including social, medical, behavioral, residential, and therapeutic assistance in line with Chapters 20, 393, and 916 of the Florida Statutes. Serving over 60,000 Floridians, APD addresses conditions such as autism, cerebral palsy, spina bifida, intellectual disabilities, Down syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and Phelan-McDermid syndrome.
Leadership and Key Personnel
- Taylor Hatch, Director, appointed in February 2023, provides strategic oversight. Her background includes roles such as the Deputy Secretary and Assistant Secretary for Economic Self-Sufficiency at the Department of Children and Families, as well as the Director of Workforce Services at the Department of Economic Opportunity.
- Sriram Kommu, Chief Information Officer, brings technological expertise from Andhra University.
- Gina Herron, Chief of Staff, manages strategic planning and policy development.
- Additional key figures:
- Aares Williams, Chief Contract Administration
- Meghan Murray, Director of Community Affairs and Employment
- Melanie Mowry Etters, Communication Director
- Gary Starling, Physical Plant Division Director
- Kathryn Whitehurst, Director of Strategic Programming and Operational Alignment
- Christian Harvey, Deputy Legislative Affairs Director
- Melissa Hurst, Support Services Director
- John Bell, Director of Legislative Affairs
- Tim Scott, Maintenance Director
Organizational Structure and Operations
APD operates in close collaboration with local communities and private providers to effectively address the needs of those with developmental disabilities. The agency’s structure facilitates the identification of needs and integrates service provision focused on enhancing members' quality of life. Specific services are also available for at-risk children aged 3-5.
Financial and Operational Insights
The agency employs approximately 717 employees and reports an annual revenue of approximately $35 million, translating to a revenue per employee of about $48,815. In the past year, the employee count has seen a 9% increase. APD’s funding and operational model align with governmental structures and public service requirements.
Engagement and Community Partnership
APD maintains active engagement with the community via initiatives such as the Family Care Council, allowing open discussions and collaborative solution-making for issues impacting individuals with developmental disabilities.
Employment and Workforce
Operating as a significant government employer in Tallahassee, Florida, APD’s workforce size spans 1,001 to 5,000 employees, enhancing service capabilities through various partner initiatives.
Contact Information
APD's headquarters are located at:
- Address: 4030 Esplanade Way, Suite 380, Tallahassee, FL 32399-0950
- Phone: (850) 488-4257
- Toll-Free: 1-866-APD-CARES (1-866-273-2273)
- Office Hours: 8 am - 5 pm ET
Competitive Landscape
APD competes with various government entities within the region, including:
- Clerk and Comptroller Palm Beach County: annual revenue of $75 million and 538 employees, has a 4% increase in employee growth.
- Veterans Owned Business: smaller-scale competitor with $3.5 million in revenue.
- Walton County Tax Collector: offers undisclosed revenue but provides competitive services.
- City governments such as Winter Haven and Tarpon Springs, each with $15 million in revenue, represent considerable competition.
Strategic Positioning
The Florida Agency for Persons with Disabilities strategically emphasizes client-focused services that are comprehensive and responsive to various developmental needs. Through collaborative partnerships with both public and private sectors, APD strives to enhance and expand its service delivery impact across the state.
