Explore resources from the 2025 DDS PossABLE Statewide Training. Below, you’ll find session descriptions, presentation slides, handouts, and other tools—organized by breakout session. These materials are here to help you revisit key ideas and put them into practice in your day-to-day work.
Session Resources
Year three of the DDS PossABLE initiative marked a milestone. More than 2,300 people have moved into services, and the 13-year DDS waitlist is no more. But this isn’t just a story of numbers. It’s the story of transformed systems, strengthened partnerships, and progress made possible by thousands of people doing the work. Oklahoma Human Services now supports more than 9,000 individuals, and the focus has shifted from catching up to moving forward. The wait is over, but the work continues.
Set on a theater stage, this video welcomed attendees to the 2025 DDS PossABLE Statewide Training with a powerful reminder: Every role matters. Through the lens of a behind-the-scenes production, it honors the unseen effort, shared responsibility, and daily excellence of the DDS team. Because when we each play our part, we serve well—together.
Year two of the DDS PossABLE initiative marks a turning point in Oklahoma’s journey to end the DDS waitlist. Through the metaphor of a blacksmith’s forge, this video reflects how historic investment, bold leadership, and tireless collaboration have transformed raw potential into meaningful action. Oklahoma Human Services is building a stronger, more person-centered system—one family, one tool, one spark at a time. The work isn’t done. But the foundation is strong, and the fire is still burning.
Challenge assumptions. Reject limits. In this bold message from the 2024 DDS PossABLE Statewide Training, Danielle speaks on behalf of people with disabilities across Oklahoma. Her words are a call to action: empowerment means opening doors, not defining limits. This isn’t just a training—it’s a rally cry to serve differently, lead boldly, and make room for every person to thrive.
Witness how enabling technologies can transform the lives of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities. This video highlights practical tools that foster independence and fuller lives. From smart home devices that facilitate physical tasks to educational apps that support cognitive development, learn how technology can be seamlessly integrated into daily life to empower individuals toward greater independence.
Explore the spirit of the 2023 DDS Statewide Training in this presentation that spotlights the PossABLE initiative’s dedication to eliminating the waitlist for services as well as to the collective future of the training. Feel the energy and commitment that fueled an empowering environment, propelling us toward meaningful service enhancements for Oklahoma families.
Discover the pivotal steps taken to eliminate the DDS waitlist. This comprehensive overview includes perspectives from DDS staff, providers, legislators, and leaders, all uniting to tackle this challenge. Witness the collaborative efforts to streamline services and Oklahoma Human Services’ commitment to a future without delays. This video is a testament to the PossABLE initiative’s role in turning obstacles into opportunities for families in need.
Revisit the highlights of the 2023 DDS Statewide Training or discover them for the first time through this vibrant recap. From compelling keynote speakers to meaningful moments and impactful presentations, be inspired by the palpable energy of the event. Listen to insights from DDS leaders and staff, and let this surge of enthusiasm propel your important work with Oklahoma families.
Experience Ethan’s remarkable journey from receiving his autism diagnosis to becoming a Special Olympics swimming champion. Supported by his mom and bolstered by DDS resources and his devoted Effective Teaching and Learning teacher, Ethan’s communication and independence flourished. His story embodies the spirit of the PossABLE initiative, showcasing ambition, growth and boundless potential.
Meet Jason – Once impacted by a life-changing accident as an infant, he now showcases resilience and hope as an adult today. Through the support of his family and DDS’s self-directed services, watch as Jason’s journey unfolds, embodying the goals of the PossABLE initiative.
Developmental Disabilities Services (DDS) is dedicated to supporting individuals with developmental disabilities and their families on their journey toward safer, healthier, and more independent lives. As part of Oklahoma Human Services, DDS primarily assists those with intellectual disabilities and extends its support to include those facing challenges like autism, cerebral palsy, and Down syndrome, among others.
DDS’ focus remains on genuine understanding, deep empathy, and collaborative efforts to pave the way for a brighter future for all Oklahoma families.
In response to the 5,100 families waiting for developmental disabilities services as of May 2022, the legislature allocated $32.5 million to eliminate the DDS waitlist and enhance provider rates. Services are actively rolling out now for these families as collaborative efforts streamline the eligibility confirmation process.
While the objective is to provide services to every family on the waitlist within the next two years, Oklahoma Human Services is also proactively analyzing future service needs to ensure an ongoing no-wait status. The PossABLE initiative is a testament to the collective drive to transform challenges into opportunities for every waiting family.
