2024 Workplace Sustainability Incentive Program (WSIP) Q&A
Why is the Lucas County Board funding this program?
It is important that we continue to empower providers and DSP’s during this current workforce crisis. This initiative, however, is only one piece of the solution as we continue to work with partners on long-term solutions to the DSP crisis.
Can only Agency Providers apply?
Currently all supports under the WSIP program are for DODD Certified Agency Providers
What Supports are there under the WSIP program?
DSP NEW HIRE TRAINING: DODD certified agencies who hired and maintained a new DSP staff up to 180 days prior to the month of the submission can apply for a one time per each new DSP reimbursement at a flat rate of $700.
DSP LONGEVITY ADD-ON:* DSP’s who are actively employed by a DODD Certified Waiver Agency and meet eligibility for the Add On (must have at least two years full time working in the DD field and have completed 60 hours of CEUs through Direct Course) can apply to be reimbursed for a one-time $900 to cover the cost of the employee’s time completing the coursework (this does not apply for adult day/employment service providers).
STUDENT WORK INCENTIVE: DSP’s who are employed by a DODD Certified Waiver Agency and are enrolled in an approved College or University and work a minimum of 200 hours per semester (spring or fall) in Lucas County, are eligible to apply for a one-time $1,000 towards their respective college tuition paid directly to the institution the following semester.
BACKGROUND CHECK REIMBURSEMENT: DODD Certified Waiver Agencies can apply for cost reimbursement for Background BCI/FBI costs for new hires.
How many of the programs can agencies apply for?
Agencies are not limited to apply for just one program. If several situations are applicable to an organization any and all of those that apply can be included in the application. Only one application per month per DODD Certified Agency Provider will be accepted.
What are the timelines for applications to be submitted and processed?
- Applications are taken on a first come first serve basis and should be submitted by the 15th of the following month.
- Requests will be reviewed for approval within 2 weeks of receipt with supporting documentation.
- Checks will be issued from Lucas County.
Where can I find the Workforce Sustainability Incentive Program Reimbursement form to submit requested reimbursement?
Click here to download the form.
What supporting documentation is needed to qualify for each program?
Supporting documentation lists for each program’s criteria can be found here. These documents can be submitted with the completed Reimbursement Form to speed up the review and approval process.
How do I get added as a vendor/How do I know if am already listed as a vendor in Lucas County?
Providers who are not currently in the Lucas County system as a vendor are encouraged to begin the process right away so there is no delay in reimbursement. Here is the link and instructions to start the vendor creation process on the Lucas County Auditor website: https://www.co.lucas.oh.us/3323/Supplier-Registration. To register:
- Click on finance in red section list
- Click on Supplier Registration
- Scroll down to Supplier Portal
- Complete a current W-9
- Complete Master Supplier Form and upload
- Scroll down on the page to Link to Register your Business. This is where you will upload your completed W-9 and the master supplier form [Attach them to the attachments plus sign icon (highlighted)].
- There is no self-service way of checking the county portal of vendors to verify you are registered.
- If you think you are a registered vendor please reach out to us with your information (vendor name, address, contact name and info) for our Buyer to be able to contact the County and verify.
- If you have received any payments/reimbursements from the county in the recent past (i.e. for Individual budgets) this likely would indicate you are already set up as a vendor. However, it you haven’t received any payments in a while, it would be a good idea to confirm all of the information is up to date.
Where do I send my completed request form and documentation?
Submit the completed Workforce Sustainability Incentive Program Reimbursement form and supporting documentation to DSPApplicants@lucasdd.org
In Addition, any questions related to the WSIP can be submitted to the DSP Applicants email above.