Leadership, Empowerment, Advancement & Development (LEAD) for Delaware Direct Support Professionals Training
Creating a path forward for the next generation of HCBS Leaders


Description of the Leadership Training
The Leadership, Empowerment, Advancement, and Development (LEAD) Delaware Direct Support Professionals Training is a 9-week program focused on the growth and development of Delaware Direct Support Professionals. Each cohort of thirty-two DSPs will engage in a variety of sessions and activities aimed at enhancing the confidence, knowledge, and skills of Direct Support Professionals working in the Delaware disability service system. The LEAD Training will consist of:
• A 9-week Training Series with in-person and virtual components, designed to build a foundation for the leadership development of participating DSPs
• Ongoing access to a Community of Practice to continually engage, inform, and connect DSPs across the state
• Quarterly virtual Networking and Learning events to support continuous learning and connection for DSPs
LEAD goals are to:
• Identify and cultivate leadership capacity within the DSP community.
• Foster confidence among DSPs and build upon existing strength.
• Demonstrate the state's commitment to the essential role of the direct support workforce.
To participate, DSPs must have the support of their organization. Each organization will pay a fee of $1815 per participating DSP. This will be reimbursed to the organization from DDDS upon completion of the Training.
To Apply, Click Here!
Goals of the Training
The Leadership, Empowerment, Advancement, and Development (LEAD) Delaware Direct Support Professionals Training is designed to:
• Identify and cultivate leadership capacity within the DSP community through investment in leadership training and development opportunities.
• Foster growth in confidence, knowledge, and skills of Direct Support Professionals in Delaware and strengthen their commitment to the disability service system.
• Demonstrate Delaware's commitment to the essential role played by Direct Support Professionals in supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and in the success of the Home and Community Based Service system.
Please see below for more information or reach out to Kristen Loomis, kloomis@natleadership.org, with additional questions.