The Aging and Adult Services Division (AASD) and Disability Services Division (DSD) have released their latest weekly digest, announcing updates and upcoming training events for various stakeholders. In a significant move, the AASD/DSD has started transitioning people from Personal Care Assistance (PCA) and Consumer Support Grant (CSG) to Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) since October 1, 2024, marking an effort to streamline services for those in need.
A noteworthy event on the calendar is the "Culture of Safety" three-day advanced online training, scheduled for May 5-7, 2025. Targeting 245D-licensed providers and lead agencies, this training aims to provide participants with knowledge on safety science principles to better engage employees and respond to incidents, with a strong focus on improvement efforts and systemic analysis. Those involved in leadership, incident response, quality assurance, and compliance are especially encouraged to attend.
Additionally, the Department of Human Services (DHS) will hold a listening session on May 7, 2025, focused on integrating new Americans into the long-term care (LTC) workforce. The session, run by DHS’s Grants, Equity, Access, and Research (GEAR) Division, seeks input from organizations experienced in working with this demographic and the challenges they face in the LTC domain.
Another opportunity for professional development is the Minnesota Transformation Initiative (MTI) quarterly training, happening on May 8, 2025. Titled "Increasing Confidence in Conversations about Work and Benefits," this free virtual training is hosted by the University of Minnesota Institute on Community Integration (ICI) and is open to employment and day service providers, along with other interested parties.
Furthermore, a two-hour deep dive session into Integrated Community Supports (ICS) Authorization and Implementation is set for May 21, 2025. DHS plans to equip lead agencies and providers with the comprehensive knowledge required for the implementation of ICS, which streamlines services for those with disabilities.
Last week, AASD/DSD also sought public comments on the Community Access for Disability Inclusion (CADI) Waiver application. The announcement was shared on April 16, 2025, inviting the public to offer their insights towards better shaping disability services. For those interested in participating, comments can be submitted through the link provided in the bulletin at the Minnesota Department of Human Services.
