University Training
Community Service Activities
Research and Dissemination

IDS sponsors workshops, training institutes, seminars, and on-the-job coaching to meet national, regional, and state training needs. Technical assistance is available on an as-needed basis. Community training and technical assistance activities are geared to the training needs of policy makers, administrators, direct service providers, advocacy organizations, and consumers. Training activities are designed to increase awareness, knowledge, and skills regarding recommended practices in the field of developmental disabilities and to promote policy development and systems change. Activities include an emphasis on the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities from minority populations, those living in poverty, and those living in rural areas. In FY 2005, IDS provided 3,017 hours of outreach training to 5,378 participants and 21,530 hours of technical assistance to 12,574 participants.

Benefits and outcomes include the increased public awareness of, and sensitivity to, the needs of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families; increased policies and program initiatives at the state and local levels; and increased community resources and enhanced quality of services.