Who we are
Based at the University of Minnesota’s Institute on Community Integration, Direct Support Workforce Solutions is a national consulting group comprising top experts in disabilities and workforce development. We have conducted extensive research, training, outreach, and evaluation in the field of disabilities and community supports for over 30 years. Collectively, we have authored and edited hundreds of publications, including textbooks, reports, peer-reviewed articles, magazines, briefs, films, and newsletters that support the full inclusion of people with disabilities in their communities of choice. In 2001, we launched the College of Direct Support, an online training curriculum for direct support professionals. This has expanded into DirectCourse, which has trained millions of direct support professionals, improving the stability of services for people with disabilities. We have provided training and technical assistance to dozens of organizations and can help you to strengthen and grow your direct support workforce.
Staff
About the Institute on Community Integration
The Institute on Community Integration at the University of Minnesota, a designated University Center for Excellence in Developmental Disabilities, has engaged in research, training, and outreach to enhance community living and participation for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities since 1988. We work to improve policies and practices to ensure that all children, youth, and adults with disabilities, and those receiving educational supports, are valued by and contribute to their communities of choice.