In a collaborative effort to enhance the workforce for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs), the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has teamed up with the North Carolina Community College System to offer free advanced training. This initiative is designed to provide growth and educational opportunities for both current and aspiring DSPs, who play a pivotal role in aiding people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to lead fulfilling lives in their communities.
The new Advanced Training Certificate program aims to readily equip participants with the necessary skills to better serve individuals with such disabilities. According to a press release from the NCDHHS, this partnership with local community colleges expects to "strengthen and retain our direct support professionals workforce." The training looks to cover a broad spectrum of support needs, including basic daily tasks and linking clients to community resources and employment opportunities. The certificate program is set to kick off at Stanly Community College, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and Forsyth Technical Community College and, if all goes well, might expand further in the 2026-27 timeframe.
Courses will be delivered virtually over eight weeks, a move that significantly broadens access, as geographic location becomes a non-factor for participation. Those interested in the program are encouraged to get in touch with the continuing education office at their preferred campus for registration information and schedules. However, space is strictly limited.
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of the North Carolina Community College System, highlighted the program's importance, stating that it addresses "the state’s growing need for direct support professionals." He added that the integration of the training curriculum is intended to "open doors to long-term career opportunities in behavioral health." The courses have been thoughtfully developed to reflect the demands of the workforce and to foster a responsive, student-centered approach that aligns with community prosperity and economic progression, as per the NCDHHS.
The initiative is part of a broader strategy by NCDHHS to alleviate DSP shortages in the state. In September 2024, a campaign was launched targeting high school and college students, alongside those unemployed or underemployed, with the aim of drawing them into human services. Furthermore, over $3 million has been granted to support more than 140 provider agencies with recruitment, training, and retention of DSPs through incentives such as bonuses and childcare assistance.
Kelly Crosbie, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, Developmental Disabilities and Substance Use Services, emphasized the significance of DSPs in the broader health ecosystem, as they are "essential to building a comprehensive system of care that promotes inclusion and connectivity," as noted by the NCDHHS.
