Workforce Development
Supporting the recruitment, training, recognition, and advancement of Direct Support Professionals.
The William D. Benkula FoundationBuilding Opportunity.
Building Opportunity.
Strengthening Communities.
Changing Lives.
We invest in people, communities, and the direct support workforce that makes inclusion possible.
Our MissionElevating the field of direct support.
Elevating the field of direct support.
Honoring the people it serves.
The William D. Benkula Foundation exists to elevate the field of direct support by investing in the development, professionalization, and enrichment of Direct Support Professionals (DSPs). We are dedicated to advancing the quality of community and home-based services by empowering those who serve on the front lines of care.
We are equally committed to the dignity, independence, and inclusion of individuals with disabilities. Through advocacy, education, and community investment, we support meaningful lives in homes and neighborhoods where all people—regardless of ability—belong and thrive.
Areas of Impact
Six interconnected ways we move the work forward.
Community Inclusion
Creating opportunities for individuals with disabilities to participate fully in community life.
Employment & Entrepreneurship
Backing meaningful employment opportunities and mission-driven businesses.
Education & Training
Developing programs that strengthen providers, families, and community members.
Innovation
Supporting new ideas, technology, and community-based solutions that improve quality of life.
Community Support
Providing assistance during times of need and investing in local initiatives.
Meet Bill
A provider, advocate, employer, and friend to thousands.
William D. Benkula dedicated his life to improving the lives of individuals with disabilities and strengthening the communities around them. He believed every person deserved dignity, opportunity, meaningful relationships, and the ability to contribute.
His work shaped services, created opportunities for families, and supported thousands of Direct Support Professionals across Idaho. The Foundation continues that legacy every day.
Read Bill's StoryFeatured Initiative
Celebrating the professionals who change lives every day.
Direct Support Professionals are the backbone of community-based services.DSP's Doing Goodexists to recognize their contributions, elevate the profession, support workforce development, and create opportunities for connection and growth.
Featured Community Partner
Mission meets community.
The Daily Drip demonstrates what mission-driven business can accomplish. More than a soda and coffee shop, The Daily Drip creates meaningful employment opportunities while serving communities throughout Idaho.
The Foundation proudly supports innovative approaches that combine business, community engagement, and opportunity creation.
Workforce Tools
Built for the people doing the work.
The Foundation invests in practical tools that remove barriers for Direct Support Professionals and the agencies that employ them — starting with certification, compliance, and the credentials our workforce needs to thrive.
Live Now
Medication Administration Certification
A modern, accessible certification platform that helps Direct Support Professionals earn and maintain their med admin credential — built to fit how DSPs actually learn and work.
cert.dspsdoinggood.com
Coming Soon
Background Check Tool
Streamlined background screening built for community-based provider agencies.
Coming Soon
First Aid & CPR Tool
Tracking, scheduling, and renewal reminders for life-safety certifications.
Community Stories
Real lives. Real change. Real people behind the work.
"I have a job I love, coworkers who feel like family, and customers who know my name. That's everything."
Marcus T.
Team Member, The Daily Drip · Boise
"We grow tomatoes, walk the trail, and laugh a lot. The garden is where Jamie shines — and so do I."
Karen & Jamie
DSP and Community Member · Idaho Falls
"Being seen matters. This recognition reminded our whole team why we chose this work."
DSP Recognition Cohort
Workforce Recognition · Statewide
Meet the Board
Leadership dedicated to community impact.
The William D. Benkula Foundation is guided by leaders committed to strengthening communities, supporting individuals with disabilities, investing in the direct support workforce, and creating sustainable opportunities for future generations.
Our Board of Directors brings together experience in nonprofit leadership, human services, workforce development, business operations, community engagement, and organizational strategy.
MC
Marie Christopherson
Board Chair
Marie provides strategic leadership for the Foundation and helps guide the organization's long-term vision, partnerships, and community impact initiatives.
JG
Jordan Gneiting
Board Treasurer
Jordan oversees financial stewardship and helps ensure Foundation resources are managed responsibly to maximize mission impact and sustainability.
SJ
Shawn Johansson
Board Secretary
Shawn supports Foundation governance, organizational strategy, community partnerships, workforce development initiatives, and mission expansion efforts.
RM
Rebecca Mumma
Board Member
Rebecca contributes expertise in organizational development, operational leadership, strategic planning, and community engagement initiatives.
BF
Bri Fox
Board Member
Bri provides insight into workforce development, compliance, organizational excellence, and programs that support both professionals and the individuals they serve.
Why We Exist
Founded on a simple belief.
Strong communities are built when people invest in one another.
We believe Direct Support Professionals deserve recognition, that individuals with disabilities deserve opportunity, and that communities thrive when everyone has the chance to contribute.
Through partnerships, workforce initiatives, community programs, education, employment opportunities, and innovative projects, we carry forward the values that William D. Benkula championed throughout his life.
Our Commitments
Six promises that guide every decision.
Verified annual numbers will be published in our forthcoming Impact Report. Until then, here's the work we hold ourselves to.
- 01Recognize
Direct Support Professionals as essential, skilled, and worthy of investment.
- 02Invest
In workforce development, training, and pathways to advancement.
- 03Include
Individuals with disabilities in every part of community life.
- 04Innovate
With partners building new models for employment and connection.
- 05Sustain
Long-term funding for programs that change lives across Idaho.
- 06Honor
Bill's belief that every person deserves dignity and opportunity.
Join the Movement
People matter. Communities matter. Direct Support Professionals matter.
Lasting change happens when we invest in all three. Step in with us.