Addressing the direct support workforce crisis will sustain and improve opportunities for individuals with ID/DD to participate in and contribute meaningfully to all facets of society, including the economy of the U.S., its territories and tribal nations. Finding solutions will also constitute a response to real human needs. When direct support workers are not available, are poorly trained, lack understanding of an individual’s needs or are unfamiliar with effective ways to support individuals in living and working in their communities, people with ID/DD and their families suffer. They lose heart about achieving the quality of experiences and daily life.