Member Insights & Resources
DSPN is committed to keeping members informed on a variety of relevant topics affecting their settings and those they serve. Check back weekly as we'll refresh this page with more news you can use.
2024 Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD) Updates - January 10, 2025
'2024 was another extraordinary year for our state and the Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development (DWD). Under the leadership of Secretary Amy Pechacek, DWD achieved many milestones and delivered effective and inclusive workforce services to reduce barriers to work, and expand access to job training and apprenticeship.'
You’ll find some of these accomplishments showcased in DWD’s 2024 annual report, available online: dwd.wisconsin.gov/dwd/pdf/annual-report-2024.
Highlights from the report include:
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Record apprenticeship enrollment and expanded offerings
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Record high disability employment for the second straight year
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Continued protection of Wisconsinites' rights and workplace protections
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A decline in worker's compensation premiums for the ninth year in a row
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A seven-month streak of record high employment levels, a record high number of nonfarm jobs, and continued low unemployment
'These achievements are a testament to the commitment of our agency's staff and collaboration among employers, labor, government, educational institutions, and other partners. Together, we carry the momentum of 2024 into a new year of continued collaboration, innovation and achievement.'
Thank you.
Meredith Dressel
Division Administrator
Division of Vocational Rehabilitation
Wisconsin Department of Workforce Development
Customized Self-Employment: Building on Dreams, Desires, and Determination from Opportunity Development Centers (ODC)
Catch the recording of this enlightening learning session, “Building Capacity to Offer Customized Self-Employment Services,” presented by Opportunity Development Centers, Inc. This program pilot is funded by a State of Wisconsin ARPA Grant. Access the video below:
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DSPN Associate Member IntellectAbility is offering an
educational opportunity. Learn how to reduce risk of
morbidity and mortality in people with IDD.
Secure your registration via link above.
CE credits are available!
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Our Top Takeaways From the 2024 National APSE Conference
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The SETWorks team shares their favorite insights from this year's National APSE Conference in Charlotte, North Carolina.
Great News on Workers Compensation Rates - courtesy of M3 Insurance
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“Effective October 1, 2024, Wisconsin Workers Compensation rates will be decreasing again for the 9th consecutive year. While Wisconsin remains a state with the some of the highest medical costs for workers compensation in the nation(1), overall expected losses are down, with a decrease in claim frequency, combined with wage inflation."
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Workplace Inclusion for Individuals With Disabilities from Relias
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Check out our new blog, How To Practice Disability Inclusion in the Workplace, to learn how and why you should create an inclusive work environment.
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Enhancing Mental Wellness in the IDD Community - from Relias
Individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) experience unique health realities, including those related to their mental health. Many adults with IDD have a heightened risk of experiencing mental health conditions (e.g., anxiety, depression, obsessive-compulsive disorder). Due to this, direct support professionals (DSPs) are often tasked with addressing complex mental health needs.
Join us September 10 at 2 PM ET to hear Christina Marsack-Topolewski, PhD, LMSW, associate professor of Social Work at Eastern Michigan University, discuss the comorbid mental health challenges that individuals with IDD face so you can provide the best support possible.
During this webinar, you'll learn:
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Common co-occurring mental health conditions among individuals with IDD
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How DSPs can recognize signs and symptoms of mental health challenges
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What resources are available to promote mental health safety and support individuals with IDD experiencing mental health challenges