Utah’s Multicultural Disability Network and Training 

Project Abstract

Utah’s Multicultural Disability Network and Training (MULDINET 2.0) grant aims to enhance community integration and inclusion for people with disabilities, considering complex sociocultural and geographic contexts. The project provides training to strengthen the capacity of direct service professionals (DSPs) and disability stakeholders serving individuals and families from various backgrounds. We engage participants in discussions, skill-building, and information sharing to improve awareness of and access to inclusive services and products across community settings.

The intersection of disability and sociocultural / geographic contexts presents challenges for DSPs in meeting needs, delivering quality services, and making appropriate referrals. DSPs must understand and respect the individual’s context and how disability affects strengths, preferences, support needs, and problem-solving. They should provide evidence-based strategies in clear language.

This project represents a continuation of successful MULDINET efforts developing
effective resources, including:

• A Community of Practice with over 350 DSPs,
• 18 archived online trainings presented by field experts (500+ viewers),
• A social media following of 460 with over 100,000 impressions this quarter,
• 5 Digital Storytelling episodes showcasing lived experiences with two more in process,
• 6 infographics on the intersectionality of disabilities/sociocultural context,
• A Canvas course to introduce DSPs to intersectional issues,
• In-person trainings presented to state agencies such as Utah Parent Center, Disability Law Center, Moab Multicultural Center, Independent Living Centers.

Utah's Multicultural Disability Network  will continue to offer training and resources to DSPs serving individuals and families from different sociocultural/geographic contexts. Resources will be shared through network meetings, courses, storytelling, infographics, and social media, with plans to train 900+ Utah DSPs. 

Project Staff