North Carolina, August 10, 2025
News Summary
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services has introduced a free Advanced Training Certificate program for Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). Developed in collaboration with the North Carolina Community College System, this initiative aims to enhance the skill sets of DSPs to better support individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The program will be offered at three community colleges and is designed to improve service delivery while addressing workforce shortages in the state.
North Carolina Launches Free Advanced Training Program for Direct Support Professionals to Address Workforce Shortage
The North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services (NCDHHS) has announced a new initiative aimed at addressing the critical shortage of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs) in the state. This program, developed in collaboration with the North Carolina Community College System (NCCCS), will offer a free Advanced Training Certificate to current and aspiring DSPs, focusing on enhancing their skill sets to better assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
The certificate program is designed to cover a comprehensive range of topics that include daily assistance, linking clients with valuable community resources, and facilitating job opportunities. By equipping DSPs with these necessary skills, the program aims to improve service delivery and increase the workforce’s stability in North Carolina.
The training will commence at three community colleges: Stanly Community College, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and Forsyth Technical Community College. Following the initial launch, there are plans for potential expansion of the program in 2026-27 to reach more DSPs across the state.
Accessibility and Participant Engagement
To enhance accessibility, the courses will be delivered virtually over an eight-week period, allowing participants from various locations to enroll. Individuals interested in joining the program are encouraged to connect with their local community college’s continuing education office for further details and registration, noting that space will be limited.
Supporting Workforce Demands
Dr. Jeff Cox, President of NCCCS, highlighted the pressing need for qualified DSPs in North Carolina, aiming not only to alleviate current workforce shortages but also to create pathways for long-term careers in the behavioral health field. The curriculum has been crafted to respond effectively to workforce demands while promoting a student-centric approach that aligns with community and economic growth objectives.
This initiative dovetails with the broader strategy employed by NCDHHS to combat the shortages of DSPs within the state. In September 2024, NCDHHS launched a campaign targeting high school and college students, as well as unemployed individuals, to encourage them to consider careers in the human services sector.
Financial Investments and Incentives
In support of this program, NCDHHS has allocated over $3 million in grants to assist more than 140 provider agencies focused on recruitment, training, and retention of DSPs. The program may also offer recruitment incentives, including bonuses and childcare assistance to help maintain employment levels among DSPs.
Kelly Crosbie, Director of the NCDHHS Division of Mental Health, described the integral role of DSPs in crafting a comprehensive care system. By providing essential support, DSPs foster inclusion and connectivity for individuals with disabilities, aligning with NCDHHS’s ongoing commitment to creating a supportive community.
Conclusion
The launch of the Advanced Training Certificate program represents a proactive step toward addressing the workforce challenges faced by Direct Support Professionals in North Carolina. By improving training and support for DSPs, the NCDHHS aims to enhance services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities while ensuring a stable and skilled workforce.
FAQs
What is the Advanced Training Certificate program for Direct Support Professionals?
The program is a free training initiative provided by the NCDHHS in collaboration with NCCCS aimed at enhancing the skills of current and aspiring Direct Support Professionals who assist individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
Where will the training be offered?
The training will be offered at Stanly Community College, Asheville-Buncombe Technical Community College, and Forsyth Technical Community College, with plans for future expansion.
How can interested individuals register for the program?
Individuals should contact their local community college’s continuing education office for registration details as space is limited.
What support will be provided to agencies hiring DSPs?
NCDHHS has allocated over $3 million in grants to support recruitment, training, and retention of DSPs and may provide incentives such as bonuses and childcare assistance.
Key Features of the Program
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Free Training | Advanced Training Certificate program at no cost for participants. |
| Online Courses | Courses delivered virtually over an eight-week period for greater accessibility. |
| Community College Partnerships | Training offered at three initial community colleges with potential future expansion. |
| Workforce Development | Aim to strengthen the DSP workforce and promote long-term career paths in behavioral health. |
| Financial Support | $3 million in grants for recruitment, training, and retention incentives for DSP employers. |
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Additional Resources
- Hoodline
- WHKY
- WLOS
- Goldsboro Daily News
- NC Newsline
- Wikipedia: Direct Support Professional
- Google Search: North Carolina Direct Support Professionals training
- Google Scholar: Direct Support Professionals training North Carolina
- Google News: North Carolina disability support programs
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