Meaning in Direct Support

Creating the Conditions for a Valued Workforce

This document dives into creating better opportunities for valued support workers and improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities (DD). ​ It highlights the importance of collaboration, fair wages, respect, and learning opportunities for direct support workers while emphasizing the need for person-centered services that empower individuals with DD to lead fulfilling lives. ​

The content explores the balance between improving working conditions for support staff and increasing opportunities for people with DD, focusing on factors like agency policies, staff competency, and community inclusion. ​ It categorizes workforce sectors into “Overcomers,” “Status-quo Supporters,” and “Devalued Keepers,” showcasing the varying levels of impact and effectiveness in the field. ​

The document outlines five key strategies to drive change, including advocating for better pay and benefits, adopting ethical standards, fostering communities of practice, sharing learning resources, and redesigning agencies to enhance performance. It emphasizes tools like person-centered planning, systematic instruction, and positive behavior support to create meaningful change. ​ Readers will gain insights into how respect, flexibility, and investment in learning can transform the direct support workforce and improve outcomes for people with DD. Whether you’re a policymaker, agency leader, or advocate, this document offers actionable ideas to build a more inclusive and effective support system.