Building a skilled, diverse, and responsive workforce that delivers person-directed, quality supports across Ontario.
The Developmental Services Workforce Initiative (DSWI) is a collaborative partnership between the Provincial Network on Developmental Services and the Ontario Ministry of Children, Community and Social Services. Established in response to Ontario’s Journey to Belonging vision, the Initiative is focused on strengthening and supporting a skilled, diverse, and professional workforce that empowers people with developmental disabilities to live meaningful, inclusive lives in their communities.
As developmental services continues to evolve toward person-directed and community-based supports, the role of the workforce is changing as well. Today’s workforce requires not only technical knowledge and skills, but also strong values, ethics, leadership, innovation, and a commitment to inclusion and belonging. The DSWI oversees committee work for Core Competencies, Cultivating Community Wellness, and Operational Leadership.
Through collaboration with people with lived experience, families, service providers, educators, government, and community partners, the DSWI develops tools, resources, training opportunities, and workforce strategies that support recruitment, retention, leadership development, and professional growth across the sector.
Together, we are building a workforce that is equipped to support choice, inclusion, citizenship, and good lives for people with developmental disabilities across Ontario.
Provincial Network on Developmental Services 2026 HR Forum
The Annual Provincial Network Human Resources Forum is a must-attend event for HR professionals and leaders in the Developmental Services sector.
Register for the October 27-28, 2026 2026 Provincial Network HR Forum in Niagara Falls!
This year’s forum will bring together sector leaders, HR professionals, and partners from across Ontario for a day and a half of learning, connection, and practical ideas. Whether you are supporting workplace culture, responding to complex HR issues, strengthening recruitment and retention, or looking for new approaches, this forum will offer timely information and meaningful conversations to support your work.
What to expect:
- Key updates on the Developmental Services Workforce Initiative
- Lawyer-led sessions on current HR issues and emerging trends
- Practical strategies related to HR best practices, technology, wellness, workforce learning, and leadership
- Opportunities to connect with colleagues and partners from across the sector
Hotel Information:
A discounted room block is available at the following hotel:
- Hilton Niagara Falls/Fallsview Hotel & Suites
(6361 Fallsview Blvd., Niagara Falls, ON Canada L2G 3V9) - Fallsview Casino Resort Hotel
(6380 Fallsview Boulevard, Niagara Falls, ON).
To book the discounted rate of $259 a night, please call 1-888-325-5788 and request the Provincial Network on Development Services block of rooms. For each reservation a deposit of $99 will be charged.
For more information please contact:
Ann-Marie Binetti
abinetti@cltoronto.ca
DS HR Forum Award Nominations Now Open!
Celebrate those making a difference. Nominate an agency, everyday hero, innovator, or organization wellness champion for a Provincial Network Developmental Services HR Forum Award using the buttons below. Nominations close September 16, 2026.
Explore these DSWI resources to strengthen your work:
