At Heart to Heart, training is more than a requirement. It’s how we shape caregivers who lead with both skill and compassion. Our training programs blend essential DDD standards with a warm, person-centered philosophy rooted in dignity, autonomy, and individuality. As an agency, we find joy in celebrating every person we support — not just for who they are today, but for who they are becoming.
Training doesn’t end after orientation or required certifications. Instead, it walks alongside each staff member throughout their journey with us, growing and evolving as they do.
Person-Centered and Trauma-Informed at Our Core
We teach our staff to see the whole person — their history, preferences, strengths, triggers, and dreams. Behaviors are understood as communication, not problems to be corrected. Rights are honored not as rules on paper, but as daily commitments to respect and humanity.
Our trauma-informed approach emphasizes calm voices, predictable routines, and genuine connection. We believe this foundation creates safety, builds trust, and opens the door to healing.
Ukeru: Keeping People Safe Without Causing Harm
While many agencies rely heavily on restraints during behavioral crises, Heart to Heart proudly uses Ukeru — a trauma-informed, hands-off system focused on safety and dignity. Ukeru uses blocking and releasing techniques, along with soft pads, to create protective barriers for both staff and the individuals we support.
This approach allows space during heightened moments, helping everyone remain calm and grounded while avoiding re-traumatization whenever possible. All staff who support individuals with behavioral challenges are trained and certified in Ukeru, and hands-on crisis management is used only in true emergency situations. Ukeru helps keep everyone safe — physically and emotionally — while preserving respect and trust.
A Workplace That Grows Its People
We invest deeply in growth, morale, leadership, and ongoing education. By using a variety of training styles and techniques, we ensure our staff feel confident, capable, and supported in the field.
Our goal is for every Direct Support Professional and team member to see a future here — one filled with opportunity, encouragement, and purpose. When our staff thrive, the individuals we support thrive too.
The Heart to Heart Difference
By combining intentional training with a culture of continuous learning, we support individuals wherever they call home — in residential settings, day programs, and through in-home services. Across every environment, people are given the opportunity to truly flourish. Safety improves. Crises lessen. Morale rises. Community grows — all because care is delivered with intention and heart.
We strive to live our core values every day as we serve the I/DD community: Joyful Excellence, Heartfelt Devotion, and Authentic Commitment. Together, these values form the heartbeat of our mission — guiding every choice, every interaction, and every moment of care we provide.