Center for Child and Human Development

The Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development(GUCCHD) was established over four decades ago to improve the quality of life for all children and youth, especially those with, or at risk for, special needs and their families. Located in the nation's capital, this exceptional center both directly serves vulnerable children and their families, as well as influences local, state, national and international programs and policy. The GUCCHD is a designated University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities for the District of Columbia. It is home to a broad array of projects and programs.

A division of Georgetown University's Department of Pediatrics, the Georgetown University Center for Child and Human Development brings to bear its unique capacity on critical social issues of our time that affect children, families and individuals with disabilities of all ages. A variety of federal, state, local and private resources support the Center.

Our Mission

The mission the GUCCHD is to bring together policy, research and clinical practice for the betterment of individuals and families, especially children, youth and those with special needs including: developmental disabilities and special health care needs, mental health needs, young children and those in the child welfare system.

Our Values

The GUCCHD is committed to developing comprehensive service delivery systems that are family centered, culturally competent, community-based and embrace inclusive practices. The GUCCHD implements its work through value based strategies that effect partnerships, collaborative approaches, participatory action and translational research, linking of research to policy and practice, and creation of accessible knowledge.

Our Goals

The primary goals of the GUCCHD are as follows:

1. To ensure effective services and supports within comprehensive service delivery systems for all individuals, especially children, youth and their families, and those with special needs. Read More

2. To engage in comprehensive service system development for all children and their families in the District of Columbia.