How It Works

What do we actually provide?

DDI works upstream. We design the systems, tools, and training that make inclusive, dignity-centered programs possible — and partner organizations bring them to life in their own communities.

DDI focuses on building clear, adaptable foundations that organizations use, adapt, and grow over time—without requiring DDI to operate programs directly.

EXPLORE PROGRAMS & PARTNERSHIPS

OUR ROLE

DDI supports organizations by designing and sharing practical, adaptable resources that reduce guesswork and help inclusive programs move from idea to implementation.

Adaptable program frameworks
Practical tools and visual systems
Accessibility and safety guidance
Staff training and coaching
Learning-focused evaluation tools

WHAT WE MAKE

DDI’s work is practical by design. Everything we create is meant to be used, adapted, and applied in real-world settings.

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Program Frameworks

DDI's program frameworks provide the big-picture structure for inclusive programs.

They help organizations understand:

What the program is designed to support
How activities are structured
How accessibility and dignity are built in from the start

Frameworks are intentionally flexible so they can be adapted to different spaces, staffing models, and community needs.

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Tools & Visual Systems

DDI develops step-by-step tools that support clarity and consistency.

These may include:

Visual task guides
Workflow diagrams
Accessibility-first workspace layouts
Adaptable templates and checklists

These tools support multiple ways of participating and help staff feel confident supporting diverse abilities.

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Accessibility & Safety Guidelines

Accessibility is not an add-on — it’s foundational.

DDI’s guidance helps organizations think intentionally about:

Physical access and workspace layout
Sensory considerations
Predictable routines and clear expectations
Safe material use and handling

This guidance is designed to support inclusive participation while respecting local policies, facilities, and expertise.

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Coaching & Staff

Training

Strong programs depend on prepared staff.

DDI provides training and coaching that helps teams:

Understand the program framework and intent
Use tools and visual systems effectively
Build confidence supporting inclusive participation
Problem-solve challenges as they arise

Training is designed to be practical, approachable, and relevant to real-world implementation.

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Evaluation & Learning

Tools

DDI’s evaluation tools support reflection, learning, and improvement over time.

Rather than focusing on comparison or performance ranking, these tools help organizations:

Reflect on what’s working
Identify areas for adjustment
Strengthen accessibility and participation
Share meaningful stories of impact

Evaluation is used as a learning tool — not a judgment.

HOW ORGANIZATIONS USE IT

DDI’s tools and frameworks support organizations throughout the full lifecycle of a program — from preparation to long-term growth.

Preparing Staff

Organizations begin by orienting staff to the framework, tools, and accessibility principles.

This includes:

Staff training and onboarding
Reviewing visual tools and workflows
Planning how the framework fits the organization’s space and schedule

Setting Up

Organizations adapt DDI’s guidance to prepare their environments.

This may include:

Setting up workstations and activity areas
Organizing materials for clarity and ease of access
Establishing predictable routines and visual cues

Running Programs

Once programs are underway, organizations use DDI’s tools to support consistent, inclusive practice.

Staff draw on:

Visual guides and workflows
Adaptable activity structures
Accessibility strategies that support choice and participation

Programs are operated locally, with staff applying their own expertise and relationships.

Measuring Impact

As programs evolve, organizations use evaluation and reflection tools to measure impact.

This includes:

Reflecting on participant experience
Adjusting workflows and supports
Incorporating feedback from staff and participants

Over time, programs become stronger, more accessible, and more sustainable.

OUR APPROACH

DDI’s program frameworks are grounded in evidence-based theories and practices from disability services, adult learning, and inclusive design. These foundations help ensure programs support autonomy, participation, and dignity while remaining flexible and responsive to real-world settings.

Our work is informed by frameworks such as Quality of Life principles, self-determination theory, universal design for learning, and adult learning theory — and is continually refined through pilot programs, partner feedback, and learning-focused evaluation.

PARTNERSHIP IN PRACTICE

"We don’t hand partners a binder —

we walk with them through setup, training, and growth."

DDI’s role is to provide clear foundations and ongoing support, while partners bring local knowledge, relationships, and leadership.

This shared approach allows inclusive programs to take root in ways that reflect each community’s strengths.

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