News Archive

integrated supports and services blog

April 11, 2025

Embracing an Integrated Approach for IDD Supports and Services

Embracing an Integrated Approach for IDD Supports and Services Navigating life with an intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) comes with its unique set of challenges. For individuals and their families, finding the right supports and services can be a daunting task. However, there’s a growing recognition that an integrated approach… Read More

We Can Do Better

March 18, 2025

We Can Do Better

Why We Should All Care About the Lack of Behavioral Support for People with Developmental Disabilities Imagine watching someone you love struggle every day, not because of who they are, but because they can’t get the help they need. For thousands of families across the country, this is their daily… Read More

Fragmented World of IDD

March 11, 2025

The Fragmented World of IDD Support Services

The Fragmented World of IDD Support Services Navigating the world of support services for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) can often feel like traversing a maze. These essential services are frequently divided into multiple categories, each with its own unique focus and approach. While these specialized services are… Read More

February 26, 2025

LBSA Welcomes New Behavioral Support Services Director, Malissa Parrott-Stanke

LBSA Welcomes New Behavioral Support Services Director, Malissa Parrott-Stanke My name is Malissa Parrott-Stahnke, and I am the new Director of Behavioral Supports for Laura Baker Services. I have been a lifelong advocate for people’s rights, person-centered thinking/planning and the need for behavior support services. I am a Qualified Mental… Read More

A mother and her son with Down syndrome enjoy a day out together, walking through a brightly lit shopping mall.

January 15, 2025

Embracing Inclusivity: Sensory-Friendly Activities in Minnesota

Embracing Inclusivity: Sensory-Friendly Activities in Minnesota Navigating a world filled with sensory stimuli can be challenging for individuals with sensory sensitivities. However, creating inclusive environments and offering sensory-friendly activities can make a world of difference for individuals with intellectual and/or developmental disabilities (IDD), allowing everyone to participate fully and enjoy… Read More

Adult and child baking

October 17, 2024

Community First Services and Support (CFSS) has replaced the PCA and CSG Programs

Community First Services and Support (CFSS) has replaced the PCA Choice and CSG Programs Community First Services and Supports (CFSS) is a new program offered by the Minnesota Department of Human Services. CFSS has replaced the Personal Care Assistance (PCA) Choice program and the Consumer Support Grant (CSG) benefit as… Read More

group home living

January 10, 2024

Care and Inclusion: Special Needs Group Homes

Care and Inclusion: Special Needs Group Homes At Laura Baker Services Association (LBSA), we believe that every individual deserves to live in a place where they can thrive, feel safe and be embraced by a community that values them. As dedicated spaces that nurture, empower and celebrate the unique abilities… Read More

behavioral support services-mental health

January 3, 2024

Navigating Dual Challenges: Addressing the Common Concurrence of IDD and Mental Health Conditions

Martha W. Lantz, MSW, MBA, has been working with LBSA to develop behavioral health services for those with IDD and mental health conditions. Read More

group of teens with special needs laughing

December 14, 2023

Finding the Right Group Home for Your Loved One

Transitioning your loved one with IDD to a group home can be difficult. Individual needs can vary, so it's important to find one that fits their needs. Read More

Client at music therapy

October 18, 2023

NIH Designates People with Disabilities as a Population with Health Disparities

A health disparity designation helps to encourage research specific to the health issues and unmet health needs of these populations. Read More