The DESOS is a web-based, data collection application developed by the Indiana University’s Institute on Disability and Community in collaboration with community rehabilitation providers, Vocational Rehabilitation, and the state Developmental Disabilities agency. By collecting information about each person receiving day and employment services, DESOS helps in monitoring system performance and providing system insights for give state policymakers, local service providers, and legislators.
What We Do
Secondary Transition Resources for Teachers and Families
We offer support for students with disabilities as they transition from school to adulthood. This includes training for teachers, resources for students and families, and guidance on creating effective Individualized Education Programs (IEPs) for successful transitions into post-secondary education, employment, and community participation.
Transition to Adulthood
We help students with disabilities transition from school to adulthood by providing tools, training, and support to teachers, students, and families. This includes connecting them with community resources and services offered by agencies like the Indiana Department of Education, Indiana Vocational Rehabilitation, and the Bureau of Developmental Disabilities.
Training and Professional Development Opportunities
We offer immersive learning experiences that go beyond traditional workshops, empowering professionals, teachers, individuals with disabilities, and families in diverse areas. Our programs provide in-depth knowledge and practical skills to foster meaningful change and lasting impact.
Competitive Integrated Employment
We advocate for competitive integrated employment for all Hoosiers by promoting customized employment options that emphasize individual strengths and flexibility, while also providing support and training to professionals working to improve employment outcomes for people with disabilities.
Using Research to Guide Practice
We bridge the gap between research and practice by translating research findings into actionable steps for various stakeholders. These findingsprovide practical guidance for its implementation.
Creating Community Support Networks
We define "community" as the places and people that bring you joy, safety, and comfort. This includes your home and the world beyond your front door. Our resources offer guidance on finding and building your own community.
Indiana Numbers to Know
45.8%People with disabilities employed, compared to 81.0% of Hoosiers without disabilities.
2022 Disability Status Report Indiana74%Students with IEPs graduating in 2024 with a high school diploma.
Youth with Disabilities: What Happens After They Leave School23,244Individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities supported by Medicaid waiver services in Indiana.
Comprehensive State Plan on Community-Based Services for Persons with Intellectual and Developmental DisabilitiesDesos 2024

Meet ID8: Your Disability Resource Navigator!
Created by the Indiana Institute on Disability and Community (IIDC), ID8 is your friendly AI assistant for navigating disability resources. Learn more about ID8 and how it can help you.
Get started by sharing your needs, like “I’m a parent seeking educational support for my child with autism.” Whatever your needs, ID8 is here to help! Launch ID8 now!
What can ID8 do for you?
- Find Answers: Get info on education, employment, healthcare, and more.
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