Building Capacity for Adult Services

2026-2027 Webinars

Webinar 1: November 19, 2026
Register for "Building Capacity for DSPs to Support Adults with IDD and Complex Behaviors"

Learning Objectives:

1. Describe key factors that contribute to complex behaviors in adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and the role of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in providing effective support.
2. Analyze common barriers and opportunities for building DSP capacity to support adults with IDD and complex behaviors within their organizations.
3. Develop at least one actionable strategy to strengthen DSP knowledge, skills, or confidence in supporting adults with IDD and complex behaviors.

Webinar 2: January 27, 2027
Register for "Preventative Strategies to Promote Autonomy "

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain how giving adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities more choice and control in their daily lives can help prevent challenging behaviors.
2. Identify factors in the environment, communication, or support approach that may limit a person's independence and contribute to challenging behaviors.
3. Use at least three strategies to increase choice, independence, and meaningful participation for adults with IDD and complex behaviors.

Webinar 3: March 11, 2027
Register for "Teaching Skills to Promote Autonomy"

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain why teaching new skills can help adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) have more choice, independence, and control in their daily lives.
2. Identify skills that can increase autonomy, such as communication, decision-making, self-advocacy, daily living, and community participation skills.
3. Use at least three practical teaching strategies to help adults with IDD learn and use skills that support greater independence and self-determination.

Webinar 4: May 13, 2027
Register for "Helping DSPs Avoid Power Struggles"

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain why power struggles can increase stress, resistance, and challenging behaviors for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
2. Recognize common situations and support practices that may unintentionally lead to power struggles.
3. Use at least three strategies to prevent or de-escalate power struggles while supporting choice, dignity, and positive relationships.

Webinar 5: July 22, 2027
Register for "Practical Strategies for Responding Safely"

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain the goals of an effective crisis response and the importance of maintaining safety, dignity, and respect during a crisis for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
2. Recognize common signs that a person may be escalating toward a crisis and identify factors that can affect how staff respond.
3. Use at least three practical strategies to respond safely and effectively during a behavioral crisis while supporting the individual's well-being.

Webinar 6: August 19, 2027
Register for "It’s Not Too Late: Functional Communication for Adults with IDD"

Learning Objectives:

1. Explain why it is never too late to support communication development for adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
2. Recognize barriers that may limit communication opportunities and identify ways to create a more communication-rich environment.
3. Use at least three strategies to encourage and support communication in everyday activities and interactions.