Network Impact - Minnesota
In the last year, the AUCD Network has had a lasting impact on the disability community across the country. Through UCEDDs, LEND programs, and IDDRCs, the Network had a profound impact on the trainings, outreach, and research on autism and intellectual and other developmental disabilities.
The Power of Teams in Direct Support
Frontline Initiative, a publication produced by Institute on Community Integration, University of Minnesota in partnership with the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals, focuses on strategies for team building, mentoring, conflict resolution, and sustaining professional relationships.
In the last year, the publication launched Direct Support Workforce Update, a new addition to Frontline Initiative. It offers a comprehensive update on the Direct Support Professional (DSP) workforce, highlighting systemic challenges, innovative solutions, and the vital importance of teamwork between DSPs and the people they support.
The edition opened with an overview of critical issues affecting the DSP field and provides resources for readers to explore these topics further.
Self-advocates BJ Stasio and Katrina Simons stressed that true support requires DSPs to work collaboratively with individuals with disabilities, not just for them. Cheryl Dougan shared a personal reflection about her son, Renzo, whose quality of life has declined due to restrictive policies that now limit the flexibility of DSPs.
Several stories emphasized how teamwork and creativity can break barriers. Sarah Sharp recounted how her team of DSPs improved services through stronger collaboration. Liz Rowntree shared how she helped the men she supports become valued neighbors, despite obstacles. Kelly Burgess and Colleen Casey describe their work with “Dream Builders,” a team that offers small grants to help individuals reach personal goals alongside their DSPs.
Mentorship and organizational support also play a key role in DSP success. Giselle Lemus and Laura Schenk discussed how their mentorship programs empower new DSPs to grow confidently into their roles. Nick Smith and manager Jason Colvin highlighted how shared values foster long-term team success, while Callie Hall outlinedways she and others create meaningful volunteer opportunities with the people they support.
I know how important teamwork is for the success of the people we support. But creating a strong team isn’t always easy—it takes good communication, hard work, and integrity from all of us.” - Nick Smith
Jacquie Foss introduced a unique employee ownership model, where DSPs share operational control of their organization—boosting engagement and collaboration. Finally, DirectCourse Connect recommended training tools and badges from the E-Badge Academy to help DSPs and frontline supervisors build effective team relationships.
The publication also included a question-and-answer section that addresses concerns, provides clarifications and updates, and more for DSPs.
Frontline Initiative is the magazine published through the National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research, U.S. Department of Education (#90RTCP0003) and the Research and Training Center on Community Living (RTC-CL) at the Institute on Community Integration (ICI), University of Minnesota, and the University Centers of Excellence in Developmental Disabilities (#90DDUC0070). This issue is also supported through a cooperative agreement between the Association of University Centers on Disabilities (AUCD), the United States Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (#03-8818-22), and the National Alliance for Direct Support Professionals (NADSP).