The Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan (AAAWM) recently unveiled its new community training lab, marking a significant step in addressing the growing challenges faced by direct care workforce across the state.
Located in Grand Rapids, the center is dedicated to equipping caregivers with essential skills and support, addressing Michigan’s critical shortage of direct care workers.
“There’s a shortage in the workforce, so this program will not only recruit additional workers but also benefit the older adults who need care,” said Cassie Caple, vice president of contract services and program development at AAAWM. “We’re really looking forward to the partnership with IMPART Alliance at Michigan State University to be a pilot site for this direct care worker training here at the Area Agency on Aging of Western Michigan.”
36,000 more direct care workers needed
According to the National Alliance for Caregiving, Michigan is currently short of at least 36,000 direct care workers, a number projected to grow as the state’s population ages. The training center, supported by a Caregiver Resource Grant from the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS), will host a variety of classes and workshops tailored to meet the needs of family caregivers and direct care professionals. IMPART Alliance, a leader in direct care workforce education based at Michigan State University, brings its expertise to this partnership.
“Our real goal at IMPART Alliance is to get as much training to as many direct care workers as we can reach,” said Bethany Duyser, assistant director of IMPART Alliance. “These community-based labs are really one piece of the puzzle. Our goal is to be able to reach direct care workers in every community and any type of community.”
‘Person-centered care’
IMPART’s training program covers the 15 core competencies essential for direct care professionals, blending virtual learning with hands-on skills labs. These cover critical areas such as patient safety, equipment use, and person-centered care techniques. The training center also aims to support family caregivers, many of whom are suddenly thrust into caregiving roles without preparation.
“We do get a lot of callers who are family members and friends looking for direction on how to be a paid provider for their loved one,” said Ryona Dixon, access coordinator. “This program provides the tools, the resources, and education to help direct care workers succeed.”
Many family caregivers don’t choose this role — it’s something they’re suddenly faced with, explained Heather Mauney, administrator of caregiver services at AAAWM.
“IMPART Alliance’s training gives them the confidence and skills to provide safe and effective care for their loved ones,” Mauney said.
Jennifer Lugo, a direct care worker trainer with IMPART, highlighted the transformative impact of the training.
“I believe in this program with my whole heart because I have worked alongside caregivers who aren’t confident and don’t know what to expect or what it’s going to look like,” Lugo said. “And I’ve also watched caregivers come through this program who didn’t have that confidence when they first started, but it opens them up.”
Beyond skills training, the program aims to professionalize the field, a critical step toward addressing workforce shortages and improving job quality.
Flexible and accessible classes
Training is offered with flexible scheduling and accessible classes to accommodate caregivers’ busy lives. As plans to expand offerings continue, the center is set to become a cornerstone of caregiver support in West Michigan.
The direct care community training lab represents a significant step forward in empowering caregivers, supporting those receiving services and their families, and strengthening communities across Michigan.
“All of these skills and pieces of knowledge are essential for the day-to-day living of people, for their basic survival,” Lugo added. “But it’s helping them not just to survive, but to thrive.”
Michigan State University’s IMPART Alliance federal grant was awarded by the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services, using American Rescue Plan Act/Home and Community-Based Services Spending Plan project funds.
