Aging & Grief

Aging And Grief

"But They Won’t Understand:" Dispelling the Myths of Grief, Loss, and I/DD

This workshop provides essential guidance for providers and professionals on effectively supporting individuals with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) through the complex processes of loss and grief. Participants will examine the various types of loss that individuals with I/DD may encounter, sometimes all at once, including the loss of loved ones, supporters, peers, routines, and familiar people and environments. Participants will learn how to identify, validate, and support all forms of loss, acknowledging their significant impact on individuals with I/DD and their support networks. Participants will gain practical strategies for providing compassionate and meaningful support to individuals with disabilities during times of loss.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this course.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full May 11, 2026  1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Growing Older Together: Aging Siblings and Intellectual Disability

This workshop explores the unique dynamics experienced by aging siblings where one member has an intellectual disability. Participants will explore strategies aimed at enhancing the well-being of both siblings, recognizing each sibling’s contributions and needs. Additionally, attendees will focus on the varied roles and responsibilities typically taken on by non-disabled siblings, especially as parents become unable to provide primary care and support. Participants will gain insights into the challenges and rewards of this life stage for those they support, along with strategies for better supporting the entire family unit.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 16, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

Behavior & Mental Health

Introduction To Positive Behavior Supports & Applied Positive Behavior Supports

Introduction to Positive Behavior Supports

This one-day training will introduce the fundamental principles of positive behavior support to help care providers gain an understanding of the origins of problem behavior. It will include an overview of essential elements of behavior support, the influence of mental health on behavior, development of practical support strategies, and a brief overview of functional assessment. After completing this training, the participant will understand the traditional perspectives that make up Positive Behavior Supports, where problem behavior comes from, how to develop and implement effective expectations for positive behaviors, and how prevention plays a key role in providing support to individuals that display persistent problem behaviors.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.  
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this course.
 
Should you have any additional questions related to this training, please refer to:Positive Behavior Support FAQ
  
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
 
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full April 27, 2026  9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Zoom

Registration is closed
Full May 6, 2026  9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed
Open May 14, 2026  9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Zoom

Open May 19, 2026  9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Zoom

Open May 27, 2026  9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Zoom

Applied Positive Behavior Supports: Functional Behavior Assessment and Development of Behavior Support Plans

This course builds on the principles of Introduction to Positive Behavior Supports, as outlined in the foundations course. In many cases, people who engage in persistent patterns of problem behaviors demonstrate complex behaviors with many underlying causes. This training will assist participants in learning to conduct a team-based, multi-component, Functional Behavior Assessment (FBA) to systematically assess these behaviors and identify the underlying function or motivation. The second phase of the training will illustrate how to use this information to develop effective intervention plans to address ongoing behavior and mental health needs and support quality of life.   
 
Note:This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.  
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Prerequisite:  Completion of Introduction to Positive Behavior Supports
 
Should you have any additional questions related to this training, please refer to: Positive Behavior Support FAQ
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 1, 2026  9:30 am - 3:30 pm

Zoom

Understanding and Addressing the Needs of People with Dual Diagnosis

Dual Diagnosis is a term applied to the presence of both intellectual/developmental disabilities and symptoms of a psychiatric disorder. This course will review the basics of assessment, diagnosis, and support for individuals with co-occurring conditions, as well as review how unmet mental health needs may contribute to behavior change. Attendees will be able to identify strategies to coordinate behavior intervention with clinical supports for individuals with dual diagnosis.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.  
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this course.
 
Prerequisite: Completion of Introduction to Positive Behavior Supports is strongly recommended
 
Should you have any additional questions related to this training, please refer to: Positive Behavior Support FAQ
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 9, 2026  10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Zoom

Behavior & Mental Health Supplemental

Supporting Individuals with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities in Trauma Recovery

People with disabilities are likely to experience some form of trauma during their lifetime. The effects and signs of these past experiences may be overlooked or untreated. This session will explore the types of traumatic events that are common and risk factors for people with IDD. Participants will learn strategies to support coping and recovery from trauma, including methods to enhance their own self-awareness and self-regulation skills.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this course.
 
Should you have any additional questions related to this training, please refer to: Positive Behavior Support FAQ
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 28,2026  10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Zoom

Community Supports & Quality

Community Supports And Quality

Developing Person-Centered Support Strategies to Help People Achieve Outcomes

Service providers are charged with developing and implementing support strategies that help those they serve to achieve the outcomes they want in life. This training offers providers an overview of important changes in the service delivery system and guidance in using person-centered practices to identify effective support strategies. Participants will learn how to use information from people using supports, their families, and others who know them best, along with planning documents, to create, evaluate, and refine strategies that match what people want, need, and hope to accomplish.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.  
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 16, 2026  10:00 am - 2:30 pm

Zoom

Community-Based Instruction

Community-Based Instruction

Job Coaching for Career Exploration in Community Settings

This two-day training will focus on equipping paraprofessionals who perform job coaching duties to support students at worksites in the community with essential skills rooted in the Employment First framework. Participants will delve into understanding disability employment realities, clarifying their role within work-based learning experiences, and applying Employment First principles to enhance coaching effectiveness. Through interactive sessions, reflective exercises, and collaborative discussions, participants will gain practical insights and strategies to foster student success in competitive integrated employment settings. This training aims to empower job coaches to align their practices with inclusive employment principles, ultimately supporting students with disabilities in achieving positive postschool outcomes
 
Note: This two-day training provides a total of 8 hours of professional development. Completion of day one is required to attend day two.
 
This training is ONLY open to New Jersey school staff. When performing the role of job coaching, school-based job coaches must be supervised by a certified teacher who has completed the required courses to coordinate Work-Based Learning (formerly SLE). For more information about work-based learning coordination, please visit the New Jersey Safe Schools Program
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJDOE Professional Development Hours.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Closed April 15 & 22, 2026  9:30 am - 2:00 pm

Zoom

Registration is closed

Community-Based Instruction Community Of Practice Events

Community of Practice (VCoP) is a group of individuals who share a concern or passion for something they do and learn how to do it better as they interact regularly. The CBI VCoP sessions provide opportunities for practitioners to share resources, experiences, stories, tools, classroom lessons, and problem-solving strategies. The VCoP is intended for educators, administrators, job coaches, support staff and other school staff interested in collaborating, connecting, and sharing information on CBI practices.

CBI Program Showcase

The CBI Showcase is an opportunity to share and celebrate the successes of CBI practitioners from schools and districts around New Jersey. Participants will have the opportunity to learn about CBI implementation experiences and strategies from diverse stakeholders. Time for networking with the community and Q & A with presenters will also be included. Registrants will receive an agenda prior to the event. If you would like to learn more about presenting at the CBI showcase, please send your inquiry to the CBI Project team.
 
Note: This series is ONLY open to New Jersey school staff.
 
This training provides a total of 3 hours of professional development.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJDOE Professional Development Hours.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 4, 2026  10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Zoom

Virtual Community of Practice (VoCP) Session 4: Strategic CBI Planning on a Limited Budget

Although CBI is an instructional strategy and funding is to be provided by the school district to support instruction in community settings, we recognize that available budgets are often lower than what programs truly need. This session focuses on realistic, sustainable approaches that help teams continue delivering meaningful instruction even when resources are limited.
 
Participants will explore how effective CBI can occur in free or low-cost public spaces without relying on expensive purchases. The session will highlight everyday community environments that naturally support instruction in community living, recreation and leisure, career awareness, and daily living skills.
 
Through guided discussion and collaborative idea sharing, practitioners will exchange successful approaches, identify underused local resources, and leave with adaptable tools that can be customized for use with students. This session emphasizes intentional skill instruction, peer learning, and practical planning so that CBI remains accessible, equitable, and sustainable for all programs regardless of budget constraints.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to NJ school staff.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJDOE Professional Development Hours.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Closed April 21, 2026  9:30 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

Registration is closed

Employment

Employment Specialist Foundations: Basic Knowledge And Skills

Employment Specialist Foundations: Basic Knowledge and Skills is the recently redesigned certification series for New Jersey employment specialists/job coaches. It is a regularly updated four-day series of interactive, competency-based workshops designed for beginning Employment Specialists working for a DVRS Supported Employment Vendor and/or DDD Community Service Provider offering Supported Employment Services. The content would also be beneficial to school job coaches and transition coordinators. Participants will learn best-practice, evidence-based approaches to all phases of supported employment services (assessment and discovery, job development, job coaching, and follow along for job retention). The course is designed to prepare otherwise qualified staff for The Certified Employment Support Professional (CESP) exam by providing an overview of the five core areas identified as crucial for ability to work as a supported employment specialist.
 
While staff will benefit most by participating in the four training days sequentially, the series is designed so that each day’s content exists as a distinct, stand-alone learning experience. For each day, participants will receive a certificate of completion. An individual will not be considered to have met the DDD/DVRS vendor requirements for competency in supported employment services until after the successful completion of all four days. It will be the responsibility of the agency to ensure staff meets the four-day participation requirements.

Employment Specialist Foundations Day 1: Overview, Assessment/Discovery

An overview and history of community-based employment and how-to strategies for effective job seeker assessment/discovery phase to maximize future job matching.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work, CRCC, NJDOE
Status Date Time Location Registration
Closed May 4, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Registration is closed
Open June 4, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 15, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Employment Specialist Foundations Day 2: Marketing and Job Development

An introduction to job development including marketing strategies, negotiating with employers, analyzing worksites and customizing employment to facilitate good job matching.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work, CRCC, NJDOE
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 7, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 18, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Employment Specialist Foundations Day 3: Instruction and Data Collection

An examination of learning styles, direct and systematic instruction on the job site (task analysis, hierarchy of prompts, teaching to natural and artificial cues, error correction, etc.) and data collection.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work, CRCC, NJDOE
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 11, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 22, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 23, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Employment Specialist Foundations Day 4: Retention and Long Term Follow Along

A familiarization with the purposes, strategies and documentation of long term follow along supports to boost retention as well as an introduction to employment and the ADA, benefits and employment, and “typicalness” research and employment.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work, CRCC, NJDOE
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 14, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 24, 2026  10:00 am - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Employment Specialist Supplemental

Employment Specialist Supplemental: Culture and Connection in Supported Employment

Culture is always part of working with people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. It shapes how disability is understood, how decisions are made, and what support looks like in daily life. In supported employment, these cultural influences also affect job matches, communication with families, and relationships with employers. This workshop offers job coaches the opportunity to reflect on how culture shapes employment partnerships and to practice skills that build trust, respect, and authentic collaboration. By paying attention to both their own perspectives and those of the people they support, coaches can strengthen relationships and create employment opportunities that truly align with what matters most to job seekers.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 14, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:30 pm

Zoom

Employment Specialist Supplemental: Navigating Challenging Conversations on the Path to Employment

While no two families experience life in the same way, parents and families of individuals with disabilities often share extraordinary challenges and stressors in their lives. When discussions around employment and independence emerge, many parents become overwhelmed with the perceived risks that come with a decision to further integrate their adult child into the community. This course will explore where parents are coming from in order to fully support their journey, as well as concrete tools and strategies that providers can use to help support and advocate for individuals with disabilities as they work towards employment and independence.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Closed April 21, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

Registration is closed

Health And Wellness

Health And Wellness

Creating Inclusive and Accessible Healthcare Settings

This workshop provides practical strategies for creating accessible, inclusive, and sensory-friendly healthcare environments for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). Participants will explore common systemic and accessibility challenges in clinical settings and learn how to address them effectively. The session also introduces key communication approaches to better understand and respond to health needs, while strengthening collaboration with health professionals to deliver coordinated, person-centered care across settings.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open July 21, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

Improving Health Outcomes Through Better Wellness Supports

This session examines health disparities experienced by people with disabilities, framing disability as a key social determinant of health. This session aims to strengthen the capacity of support teams to improve health outcomes through inclusive health promotion and wellness opportunities. Participants will explore key risk factors for poor health and learn practical, everyday strategies to support people with disabilities in developing and maintaining healthy behaviors across the lifespan.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 17, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

Meaningful Days

Meaningful Days Leading To Fulfilling Lives: Reimagining Our Approach To Supports And Services

This dynamic two-day training is designed to help provider agencies deliver services that reflect the true preferences of the people they support while meeting the HCBS Settings Rule requirements. Participants will learn how to empower individuals through services that embrace choice, dignity, and inclusion while fostering meaningful connections and quality of life. The training invites participants to think creatively and critically about their role in redefining what’s possible for the people they serve. Through a mix of discussions, hands-on activities, and practical tools, participants will leave inspired and ready to take action.
 
Note: This is a training series and taking both Day 1 and Day 2 will be the mandatory pre-requisite to taking any further trainings under the Meaningful Days category offered subsequently.

Day One: Laying the Foundation for Community-Based Supports

Day one focuses on the key principles and federal mandates that shape service delivery, including the HCBS Settings Rule. It connects these requirements to the broader disability rights movement, showing how they can advance equity, inclusion, and self-determination.
 
Participants will explore concepts like meaningful participation, community integration, and self-direction. Activities will prompt reflection on current agency practices and their impact on individuals’ opportunities to live valued, connected lives in their communities.
  
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
This is a training series and taking both Day 1 and Day 2 will be the mandatory pre-requisite to taking any further trainings under the Meaningful Days category offered subsequently.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 18, 2026  10:00 am - 2:00 pm

Zoom

Day Two: Tools and Strategies for Person-Centered Supports

Day two provides actionable tools and strategies for elevating service quality. Participants will learn about person-centered planning approaches, including Charting the LifeCourse, and discover how to design supports that reflect each person’s unique goals and values.
 
Practical methods like community mapping that helps identify local resources and create opportunities for meaningful participation will be shared. Activities will focus on designing intentional, engaging activities that align with person-centered principles.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
This is a training series and taking both Day 1 and Day 2 will be the mandatory pre-requisite to taking any further trainings under the Meaningful Days category offered subsequently.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 19, 2026  10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Zoom

Meaningful Days Leading To Fulfilling Lives: Reimagining Our Approach To Specific Services

Participants will build on the foundational knowledge gained in Meaningful Days Leading to Fulfilling Lives: Day One and Day Two by applying it to service-specific trainings offered here. Each session provides opportunities to develop targeted, service-defined strategies that enhance the implementation of person-centered practices.

Day Habilitation and Community Inclusion Services

This training focuses on the service descriptions of Day Habilitation and Community Inclusion, exploring both their similarities and differences. Participants will gain a clear understanding of each service and engage in hands-on practice to create strategies and activities tailored to their unique requirements.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
 
Prerequisite: Meaningful Days Leading to Fulfilling Lives: Reimagining Our Approach to Supports and Services Day One: Laying the Foundation for Community-Based Supports and Day Two: Tools and Strategies for Person-Centered Supports
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 22, 2026  1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Prevocational Training Services

This training delves into the service description of Prevocational Training, providing participants with a comprehensive understanding of the service and its essential components for successful implementation. Through interactive activities, participants will practice designing strategies and activities that align with the goals of Prevocational Training.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey CBVI, DDD, and DVRS, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, DVRS approved vendors, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
 
Prerequisite: Meaningful Days Leading to Fulfilling Lives: Reimagining Our Approach to Supports and Services Day One: Laying the Foundation for Community-Based Supports and Day Two: Tools and Strategies for Person-Centered Supports
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 22, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

PCAST - Person-Centered Approaches In Schools And Transition

PCAST – Community Of Practice Events

PCAST: Annual Innovation Swap Meet

Our 12th Annual PCAST Innovation Swap Meet is an opportunity for PCAST Cohort School staff, families, and students to showcase their efforts related to implementing person-centered approaches and network with participants from other cohort districts. It is sponsored by the New Jersey Department of Education, Office of Special Education, in partnership with Rutgers/The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development.
 
Prerequisite: Registrants must be actively involved in the PCAST project as an employee, family member, or student in a PCAST Cohort School.  
 
Note: Attendees are asked to bring a bagged lunch for this event.  
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 21, 2026  9:30 am - 2:00 pm

LRC-Learning Resource Center Central | Directions
Web Site
200 River View Plaza
1st Floor Conference Room
Trenton, NJ     08611
609-376-3955

People With DD And Families

People With DD And Families

Basic Overview of Self-Directed Services and Supports Brokerage

In New Jersey, people can self-direct some or all of their Home and Community Based Services, made available through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Supports Program or Community Care Program.  Self-directed services are provided by a self-directed employee or a service provided by a non-disability specific business and are paid through use of a fiscal intermediary.  People that self-direct their services can hire a supports broker to help find, sustain, and plan for their self-directed services. This workshop will provide a basic overview of self-directed services and the role of supports brokers.  
 
Note: This training currently is open to those interested in learning more about self-directed services in New Jersey.  Target audiences include people with disabilities, families, support coordinators and those in similar roles.
 
This training does not fulfill the training requirement to be a Supports Broker
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work  
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 8, 2026  2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Open August 5, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

Building Partnerships in Planning through Charting the LifeCourse and Person-Centered Thinking

People with disabilities, families, and support coordinators collaborate to map a vision for life, define outcomes, and select the services and supports to help achieve them. The Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) framework, developed by the University of Missouri Kansas City, Institute for Human Development, was created to help individuals and families of all abilities and all ages develop a vision for a good life, think about what they need to know and do, identify how to find or develop supports, and discover what it takes to live the lives they want. Through engaging activities, this workshop will describe this framework and demonstrate how it can be used to develop plans that are authentically person-centered
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, Support Coordination agencies, Supports Brokerage Providers, individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 3, 2026  10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Zoom

Supports Brokerage

Supports Brokerage

Basic Overview of Self-Directed Services and Supports Brokerage

In New Jersey, people can self-direct some or all of their Home and Community Based Services, made available through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Supports Program or Community Care Program.  Self-directed services are provided by a self-directed employee or a service provided by a non-disability specific business and are paid through use of a fiscal intermediary.  People that self-direct their services can hire a supports broker to help find, sustain, and plan for their self-directed services. This workshop will provide a basic overview of self-directed services and the role of supports brokers.  
 
Note: This training currently is open to those interested in learning more about self-directed services in New Jersey.  Target audiences include people with disabilities, families, support coordinators and those in similar roles.
 
This training does not fulfill the training requirement to be a Supports Broker
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work  
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 8, 2026  2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Open August 5, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

Orientation to Supports Brokerage

Supports brokers are the linchpin of the self-directed service model, fostering independence, social engagement, and choice. This orientation provides an overview of self-determination, self-direction, and the basic principles of person-centered thinking and planning. Participants will learn how Supports Brokers collaborate with the person receiving supports, Support Coordinators, the Fiscal Intermediary, and Self-Directed Employees to bring the service plan to life. As part of this two-day training, future Supports Brokers will build skills in the areas of recruiting, hiring, training, and supervising Self-Directed Employees in partnership with those receiving supports. Building community connections and identifying supports outside of the formal service system will also be discussed.
 
Note:
      • A test will be given at the end of the course. In addition to full participation in the class, the test must be passed with an 80% or higher. If the test is not passed the class must be completed again until successful.
      • Homework is assigned on day one, please plan additional time in your schedule to complete it.
      • This training currently is ONLY open to Agencies or Individuals who have initiated the approval process with DDD.
      • To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 9 & 10, 2026  10:00 am - 4:00 pm

The Boggs Center on Disability and Human Development | Directions
Web Site
335 George Street
3rd Floor
New Brunswick, NJ     08901
732-235-9300

Support Coordination

Support Coordination Orientation

Support Coordination Orientation: Person-Centered Planning & Connection to Community Supports

Support Coordinators play an important role in the lives of people with developmental disabilities and their families. They are professionals that help to identify the supports the person needs, plan for the life the person wants, and connect the person to services that will help him/her achieve a quality life in the community. In order to do this support coordinators need to have a working knowledge of the disability system and current models of support, be skilled in person-centered planning, be able to identify a wide array of available community services options, and effectively monitor the quality and effectiveness of supports on an ongoing basis.
 
As a part of the required support coordination orientation, this two-day training will introduce participants to current disability philosophy, best practices, and the roles of a support coordinator. Through a series of engaging activities participants will learn how to develop the person centered planning tool and NJ Individual Service Plan. Strategies to develop personally defined outcomes and goals will be practiced, and concepts related to connecting the person to community-based supports and services will be presented.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to New Jersey Support Coordinators and Support Coordinator Supervisors.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Prerequisite: All participants MUST complete all 4 Lessons found in DDD Support Coordination - Prerequisites on the College of Direct Support a week prior to training date.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
 
 
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 18 & 19, 2026  10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 23 & 24, 2026  10:00 am - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Support Coordination Workshops

Basic Overview of Self-Directed Services and Supports Brokerage

In New Jersey, people can self-direct some or all of their Home and Community Based Services, made available through the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD) Supports Program or Community Care Program.  Self-directed services are provided by a self-directed employee or a service provided by a non-disability specific business and are paid through use of a fiscal intermediary.  People that self-direct their services can hire a supports broker to help find, sustain, and plan for their self-directed services. This workshop will provide a basic overview of self-directed services and the role of supports brokers.  
 
Note: This training currently is open to those interested in learning more about self-directed services in New Jersey.  Target audiences include people with disabilities, families, support coordinators and those in similar roles.
 
This training does not fulfill the training requirement to be a Supports Broker
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work  
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 8, 2026  2:00 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Open August 5, 2026  10:00 am - 12:00 pm

Zoom

The HCBS Settings Final Rule Overview and Roles of the Team

The HCBS Settings Final Rule has many positive implications for people with disabilities as it focuses on authentic person-centered planning, choice, increased opportunities,and community inclusion. The entire planning team plays an integral role in upholding the Home and Community Based Services (HCBS) Settings Final Rule. This training provides information about the HCBS Settings Final Rule and its impact for people with I/DD and the services they receive. Planning teams will learn to incorporate elements of the Rule into the person-centered planning process, make choices based on needs and preferences, and make sure the person has the opportunities and support to be included in their community.
 
Note: This training currently is open to DDD Service recipients, families, providers, support coordinators/supervisors, and others affiliated with DDD.  
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open August 4, 2026  10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Zoom

Building Partnerships in Planning through Charting the LifeCourse and Person-Centered Thinking

People with disabilities, families, and support coordinators collaborate to map a vision for life, define outcomes, and select the services and supports to help achieve them. The Charting the LifeCourse (CtLC) framework, developed by the University of Missouri Kansas City, Institute for Human Development, was created to help individuals and families of all abilities and all ages develop a vision for a good life, think about what they need to know and do, identify how to find or develop supports, and discover what it takes to live the lives they want. Through engaging activities, this workshop will describe this framework and demonstrate how it can be used to develop plans that are authentically person-centered
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, Support Coordination agencies, Supports Brokerage Providers, individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 3, 2026  10:00 am - 12:30 pm

Zoom

Developing Person-Centered Outcomes: Technical Assistance Workshop for Support Coordinators

The development of personally-defined outcomes is the cornerstone of a quality individual service plan (ISP). Information support coordinators gather throughout the planning process helps to describe what the person would like to achieve and the supports and services needed to make this a reality. The role support coordinators play in facilitating conversations with people with disabilities and their families is crucial to helping people describe their vision for life, define outcomes, and select the services and supports that will help them to achieve this. Through the use of a presentation and guided practice, this workshop will teach participants techniques useful in the identification of person-centered outcomes.
 
In order to participate, Support Coordinators need to bring a print out of a completed PCPT and NJISP of a person she/he is currently working with (names and identifiers blacked out). These documents will be used throughout the workshops.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to New Jersey Support Coordinators and Support Coordinator Supervisors.   
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Prerequisite:  Completion of SC Orientation and actively working with a caseload for at least 30 days. Support Coordinators that have taken the SC Orientation fewer than 30 days prior will not be registered and should attend a workshop at a later date.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work  
 
 
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open August 20, 2026  10:30 am - 1:00 pm

Zoom

Supervising Support Coordinators: Strategies to Enhance Quality while Meeting Requirements

Support Coordination Supervisors perform a broad set of responsibilities that span the realms of agency management and quality assurance.  This training focuses on the administrative, educational, and supportive functions Supervisors they conduct with the Support Coordinators they hire and employ.  Participants will learn strategies for meeting requirements while enhancing the effectiveness of Support Coordination services through hiring and orientation practices, training and professional development, ongoing supervision and feedback, and evaluation and appraisal.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies, and Support Coordination agencies authorized by DDD to move forward with the training required in qualifications.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Prerequisite: Support Coordination Orientation
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open July 9, 2026  10:00 am - 2:30 pm

Zoom

Supported Employment Overview for the Support Coordinator

Employment is an important aspect of being a valued, contributing member of our community.  Support Coordinators play a crucial role in helping people with disabilities and their families explore possibilities and connect the person to the supports and services necessary to attain employment.  This course will describe the role the support coordinator plays in helping people with disabilities identify and realize personally relevant employment goals. Topics to be discussed include the impact Employment First has on the services they provide and concrete methods Support Coordinators can use to bridge the hopes, dreams, preferences, and personal attributes captured in the Person Centered Planning Tool and the desired employment future the person wants to achieve.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies, and Support Coordination agencies authorized by DDD to move forward with the training required in qualifications.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
  
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 30, 2026  10:00 am - 1:00 pm

Zoom

Support Coordination Coaching Sessions

Coaching Session: Assistive Technology Supports in the Home

There is a multitude of ways to use both low and high tech assistive technology to support people to be as independent as possible in their own homes. Identifying the technology and ensuring that a person is successfully able to use it can sometimes be a challenge. Come ready to discuss the challenges and successes that you’ve experienced with assistive technology in the home for the people you support.
 
This collaborative coaching session provides a forum for Support Coordinators to share resources, collaborate to problem-solve common issues, and enhance skills through facilitated discussion.  Each session involves a brief Introduction to the topic through use of key best practices, scenarios, case studies, and/or common experiences.  Participants will actively participate through guided conversation and sharing of strategies and promising practices.
 
Participants are expected to actively contribute to the conversation by coming prepared to brainstorm and share resources related to the topic.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies, and Support Coordination agencies authorized by DDD to move forward with the training required in qualifications.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open July 16, 2026  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

Open July 16, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Zoom

Coaching Session: Connecting to Community

As both best practice and HCBS rule tells us, Medicaid funded services and supports should not be the only means by which people are supported. People with disabilities need to be included in and utilize the resources available to them through their local communities. Further, people should be intentionally included in community opportunities. This goes beyond simply being in the community, but rather, being a part of the community.
 
Responsibility for this does not rest on one person alone. The entire team plays a role in identifying opportunities, building relationships, and supporting authentic community inclusion. This coaching session will focus on how Support Coordinators and team members are working well together to make this a reality in the lives of the people they support.
 
Participants are expected to actively contribute to the conversation by coming prepared to brainstorm and share resources related to the topic.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies, and Support Coordination agencies authorized by DDD to move forward with the training required in qualifications.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full June 4, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed
Open June 18, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Zoom

Coaching Session: Health - The Support Coordinator’s Role in Lifelong Care

Support Coordinators play an integral role in planning for all the important things in life with the people that they support. Health is an important area where people may need support to get connected to health care practitioners, navigate the transition from pediatric to adult healthcare, and engage in preventative health practices. This session will be a discussion of the ways that Support Coordinators can best support people through this area of their lives.
 
This collaborative coaching session provides a forum for Support Coordinators to share resources, collaborate to problem-solve common issues, and enhance skills through facilitated discussion.  Each session involves a brief introduction to the topic through use of key best practices, scenarios, case studies, and/or common experiences.  Participants will actively participate through guided conversation and sharing of strategies and promising practices.
 
Participants are expected to actively contribute to the conversation by coming prepared to brainstorm and share resources related to the topic.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies and Employees of DDD.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full June 4, 2026  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed
Full June 18, 2026  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed

Coaching Session: Planning Ahead: Aging, Roles, and Changing Needs

Adults with I/DD are living longer, and many families are navigating changing health, evolving roles, and aging caregivers. Yet conversations about aging are often delayed until a crisis forces urgent decisions, leaving everyone to navigate complex systems during an already stressful time. In our field, we devote significant attention to helping people build their futures in early adulthood, but we are less likely to encourage planning that addresses how needs change as individuals and families grow older. This virtual coaching session will focus on aging as it shows up in real life for people with I/DD and their families. We will talk about what to notice, how to start conversations, and how to encourage planning before a situation becomes urgent. Participants are encouraged to bring real-life scenarios so we can think through them together and share practical ideas and strategies that can be used right away.
 
Each session involves a brief introduction to the topic through use of key best practices, scenarios, case studies, and/or common experiences.  Participants will actively participate through guided conversation and sharing of strategies and promising practices.
 
Participants are expected to actively contribute to the conversation by coming prepared to brainstorm and share resources related to the topic.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies and Employees of DDD.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full May 28, 2026  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed
Full May 28, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed

Coaching Session: Supporting People in Self-Direction

This coaching session will discuss the utilization of Self-Directed Services. We’ll explore how self-direction promotes choice, control, and independence, and clarify the coordinator’s role in supporting people and their families through this option. We will also discuss common challenges, and strategies to make Self Direction a success.
 
This collaborative coaching session provides a forum for Support Coordinators to share resources, collaborate to problem-solve common issues, and enhance skills through facilitated discussion.  Each session involves a brief introduction to the topic through use of key best practices, scenarios, case studies, and/or common experiences.  
 
Participants will actively participate through guided conversation and sharing of strategies and promising practices.
Participants are expected to actively contribute to the conversation by coming prepared to brainstorm and share resources related to the topic.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies, and Support Coordination agencies authorized by DDD to move forward with the training required in qualifications.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open July 30, 2026  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

Open July 30, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Zoom

Coaching Session: Tools and Conversation Starters in Person Centered Planning

Join us for this Support Coordination Coaching session on the use of information gathering tools and other conversation starters for Person Centered Planning. This session will go beyond what is used for the intial meeting with a person. As a Support Coordinator, how do you engage people that you’ve supported for many years? How do you continue to gather new and deepr information from them to continue to develop a meaningful person centered planning tool?
 
This collaborative coaching session provides a forum for Support Coordinators to share resources, collaborate to problem-solve common issues, and enhance skills through facilitated discussion.  Each session involves a brief introduction to the topic through use of key best practices, scenarios, case studies, and/or common experiences.  Participants will actively participate through guided conversation and sharing of strategies and promising practices.
 
Participants are expected to actively contribute to the conversation by coming prepared to brainstorm and share resources related to the topic.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to Employees of DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Support Coordination agencies, and Support Coordination agencies authorized by DDD to move forward with the training required in qualifications.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full May 11, 2026  10:00 am - 11:00 am

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed
Full May 11, 2026  1:00 pm - 2:00 pm

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed

Workforce Development & Frontline Supervisors

Workforce Development

College of Direct Support Administrator Training

These trainings are designed for staff provider agencies designate as their College of Direct Support Administrators. Participants may include: administrative assistants, human resources staff, and agency trainers. Participation in these trainings will help agencies meet the minimum requirement of tracking Pre-Service training and use the optional state of the art continuing education opportunities available through the College of Direct Support. In these trainings, administrators will learn how to enroll new staff into the CDS system using the DDD required fields, release CDS course/lessons to staff, track Pre-Service and other agency training, and generate reports on an individual and agency basis.     
 
Given the hands-on instruction provided in this training, all participants must use a laptop or desktop computer in order to toggle between the Zoom and a web browser. Alternate devices such smart phones, Tablets, iPads and Kindle Fire are NOT acceptable.   
 
In advance of the training, participants must download the CDS Adminstrator Manual and print or have available on an alternate screen (e.g. second screen, phone, tablet) to refer to as needed throughout the training and use after successful completion.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD and DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers.  
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Status Date Time Location Registration
Full May 7, 2026  12:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

The Event is Full
Registration is Closed
Open May 21, 2026  10:00 am - 1:30 pm

Zoom

Open May 28, 2026  12:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 4, 2026  10:00 am - 1:30 pm

Zoom

Open June 11, 2026  12:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

Open June 18, 2026  10:00 am - 1:30 pm

Zoom

Open June 25, 2026  12:30 pm - 4:00 pm

Zoom

DSP Workforce Recruitment And Retention Strategies (For Provider Agency Leadership)

Target Audience: Service Providers Leadership including Directors, Program Directors, HR Staff, Training Department Staff, and similar leadership positions.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
The Boggs Center is collaborating with the University of Minnesota, Institute on Community Integration’s Direct Support Workforce Solutions to bring a 10-part learning series for provider agency leaders to New Jersey.  Through this series, experts in the field will provide presentations and guided learning focused on 10 strategies essential to effective Direct Support Professional Recruitment and Retention.  Each topic will be presented across two sessions, the first being an engaging presentation.  The second, taking place a week later, will be a facilitated Learning Forum to allow for more questions and answers, collective idea sharing, and networking.  
 
Certificates of Attendance will be provided to those who complete both days of the sessions.
Space is limited.  Interested professionals within the target audience must register by topic. We ask that those registering, mark their calendars and plan to attend due to demand and space limits.   

Competency-based Evaluations & Performance Reviews

Competency-based skills evaluation and performance review are separate tools that when combined provide a comprehensive and effective approach to performance management, coaching, and growth. Together, we will learn:
 
  • How to effectively implement both tools in your organization to engage your employees in their professional development and growth.
  • How to align evaluation and performance management with competency-based training plans.
 
May 7, 1-3pm – Webinar
May 8, 1-2pm – Learning Forum
 
Target Audience: Service Providers Leadership including Directors, Program Directors, HR Staff, Training Department Staff, and similar leadership positions.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open May 7 & 8, 2026  1:00 pm - 3:00 pm

Zoom

Frontline Supervisors

Frontline Supervision Series: Supervision, Leadership, and Promoting Professionalism

Frontline Supervisors are leaders and supporters, enhancing the capacity of their team to work together toward common goals. This course focuses on building skills to ensure competence, accountable performance, continuing professional development, and support for those supervised. Participants will learn strategies for: promoting professional relations and teamwork, building effective teams, facilitating collaborative problem-solving, managing conflict, and reviewing performance.
 
Note: This training currently is ONLY open to employees of New Jersey DDD, DDD/Medicaid Approved Providers, and individuals with disabilities and family members.
To meet the training needs of the entire state, there is a limit of participants per agency for this training.
 
Certificates: Certificates of Attendance with training title and duration will be provided.
 
Continuing Education Credit: NJ Social Work
Status Date Time Location Registration
Open June 3, 2026  10:00 am - 2:30 pm

Zoom