Intersect for Ability is a collaborative network of agencies serving individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities of all ages. Our collaborating Intersect agencies come together to move the industry and community services forward by developing, implementing, and sustaining cutting-edge programs that increase opportunities and improve the quality of life for the people they serve.
Clinical & Autism
The Clinical CoP brings together professionals across the Intersect Network to share resources, build clinical knowledge, collaborate, and strengthen evidence-based practices that enhance the quality of support provided to people with I/DD and autism. This group provides ongoing opportunities for training, networking, consultation, and problem-solving across clinical disciplines. A key component of the CoP is professional development and knowledge sharing. The group offers virtual trainings and educational opportunities for QIDPs and DSPs on topics such as Autism 101, Proactive Behavior Supports, Dos & Don’ts for Working with People with Autism, Visual Supports, and ABA Basics. The CoP also continues its ABA Colloquium, providing continuing education opportunities for BCBAs on topics relevant to applied practice within I/DD service settings.
Community Day
Committee members engage in joint activities and share resources. They discuss experiences to improve best practices within community day services. The group helps individuals build confidence, explore employment and volunteering, navigate and enjoy the community, and receive consistent, high-quality services.
Development
The Development CoP gathers to share ideas and best practices. Topics include planned giving, donor retention, stewardship, relationship building, and family involvement. They also focus on year-end giving, marketing, and public relations. They emphasize social media engagement and better communication with first-time donors. The group seeks to diversify funding streams and keep up with technology and AI. Every year, the team plans an Intersect-wide Developmental Disabilities Awareness Night with the Chicago White Sox.
Employment
The Employment CoP shares best practices and addresses challenges. Their goal is to improve employment services across Intersect organizations and the State. They work to modernize job-search tactics for individuals and the current economy. The group also continues to advocate for efficiency in the DRS process and to create standardized documents for DRS/Agency use.
Home-Based
The HBS CoP helps individuals and families fully use waiver service benefits. It optimizes communication and collaboration among employers, workers, families, and service coordination. The CoP discusses online ABE accounts with families, ensures employers and personal support workers complete Aces$’s annual EVV forms together, collaborates on billable SDA tasks, and explores ways to improve how ISCs share Personal Plans.
HR & Training
The HR and Training Community of Practice provides a collaborative space for leaders to share insights, resources, and effective strategies that strengthen workforce well-being and organizational resilience. Together, members support sustainable staff development, implement new training initiatives and systems, and promote best practices in policy, regulations, training, and professional growth. The groups also monitor the political climate and its potential impact on services, staff, and organizational culture.
Quality Assurance
This group shares resources and ideas to ensure compliance. They stay current on changes to rules and regulatory requirements. The group aims to provide quality initiatives, practices, and systems within Intersect Network organizations. Discussions often cover licensing, accreditation, BQM, Rule 116, and OSFM. Members promote learning and consistent understanding. They work to increase transparency in quality assurance and support responsive problem-solving. The group allows space for real-time questions, technical tips, and knowledge exchange as needs arise.
Residential
The Residential CoP shares information on recruitment and retention. The group focuses on regulatory compliance, HCBS compliance, and survey preparation. They address staff shortages, educate new members about group living, and increase participation by sharing resources to improve service delivery. Together, they review relevant DHS bulletins, CILA rate hours, the Guidehouse survey, and the challenges of supporting individuals with mental illness in the I/DD system.
Transition
Coming Soon!