Hello everyone!
We have lots of good work happening here at the Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) this summer. At the end of July, we welcomed five new governor appointed council members from across the state. Check out our current council roster under the Our Council tab on our website to see our current members.
We are working with some new partners to better serve folks with co-occurring developmental and behavioral health disabilities. One of our partners, PH Clubhouse, is spotlighted in the Advocacy Leadership Development Cohort project (ALDC). The other partner, National Leadership Consortium (NLC) is asking for help distributing a survey as they gather data on a project they are doing with us over the summer. Please keep reading and pass this information along to your networks. We appreciate your interest and help as we improve lives within our community. Please take good care and enjoy the rest of August!
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October 2024 Washington DD Council quarterly meeting
Oct. 17th 9 am – 4 pm and Oct.18th 9:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m.
Walla Walla | Courtyard Marriot Hotel
People First Convention
October 11th, 12th and 13th, 2024
Bremerton | Kitsap Convention Center
This year, Self-Advocates in Leadership (SAIL) worked with other advocates to pass the Nothing About Us Without Us Act HB 1541. Governor Inslee signed the bill into law in March. Starting January 2025, the Law requires temporary legislative-directed statutory entities like work groups and task forces to have at least three people with direct experience on them. This includes people with intellectual and developmental disabilities as well as individuals from other marginalized groups. The Office of Equity is now working with advocates to create a tool kit for Legislators to understand how to implement the law correctly. SAIL and other disability advocates want to make sure Legislators will ensure people with disabilities have a place on these work groups and task forces.
Become a Council Member!
Have you ever thought about becoming a DD Council Member?
Serving on the WADDC offers a unique opportunity to make a significant impact on the lives of individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. As a Council member, you would collaborate with a diverse group of passionate individuals dedicated to advocacy, policy development, and community engagement. This role allows you to bring your unique perspective and expertise to the table, helping to shape the future of services and support for people with developmental disabilities in Washington.
The WADDC is always accepting applications and currently has a position open for a Council member who works for a non-governmental and non-profit organization that serves the intellectual and developmental disabilities community. If you are interested in making a difference and contributing to meaningful change, learn more and apply by clicking the button below. Applications for the current open seat will be reviewed on August 23rd. Please reach out to info@ddc.wa.gov or 1-800-634-4473 if you have questions or need assistance.
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Statewide survey on co-occurring intellectual and developmental disabilities and mental-behavioral health
Closes TODAY
The National Leadership Consortium, in partnership with the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council, is conducting a statewide survey and interviews to understand the needs and experiences of people with developmental disabilities and mental/behavioral health support needs in Washington. They seek adults with IDD and their caregivers. The survey, open through today, offers a chance to win one of two $50 Amazon gift cards. Interviews, conducted from July 8th to August 9th, provide participants with a $20 Amazon gift card. Participation in both the survey and interview is encouraged.
Community Survey – Dan Thompson round 3 funding
August 5th, 2024 – September 5th, 2024
The DDA and Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) are excited to start working on the next round of funding from the Dan Thompson Memorial Developmental Disabilities Community Services Account. We want to hear from you about how the money should be spent. One entry per person. There are five questions total. If you need help filling out the survey, please email or call 360-584-7955.
ALDC Organization Spotlights: PHA Clubhouse and Wise
PHA Clubhouse
PHA Clubhouse has been participating in the DDC’s Advocacy Development Leadership Cohort. PHA Clubhouse is a dedicated community resource committed to supporting adults facing mental health challenges. Our Clubhouse operates as a unique, member-driven environment where individuals work alongside staff to manage daily operations and achieve personal goals. We offer a range of essential resources, including employment support, housing assistance, and educational advocacy. Additionally, we provide skill development in areas like computing and cooking, as well as nutritious meals. This collaborative and supportive setting empowers members to gain confidence, build skills, and reduce isolation, leading to significant improvements in their quality of life.
Our impact on the community extends beyond individual support. By helping members achieve personal milestones such as securing employment or pursuing education, we contribute to reducing hospitalizations and criminal justice involvement. We foster positive community partnerships that help reduce stigma around mental health and create a more inclusive society. PHA Clubhouse's efforts lead to tangible improvements in members' lives while promoting a culture of understanding and support within the broader community, ultimately enhancing overall community well-being.
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Wise
Wise is a nonprofit organization dedicated to expanding and sustaining employment opportunities for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Wise envisions a society where individuals with disabilities have access to meaningful employment and are supported to contribute and thrive in their communities.
Wise provides essential training and technical assistance to create and support employment opportunities in diverse communities. One key resource is the Wise Learning Center, an on-demand library with more than 300 hours of content on topics such as community inclusion, customized supported employment, diversity, equity, and inclusion. Through these resources, Wise equips individuals and organizations with the knowledge and tools necessary to build inclusive workplaces and communities.
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Informing Families Summer 2024 Newsletter
Check out the Informing Families summer 2024 newsletter for information about CARES (Chinese Autism Resources and Empowerment Services), Partners for Housing, Outdoors for All (inclusive recreation), a No Paid Services Caseload reminder and more!
Washington DD Council - Who we are and what we do
Who We Are
The Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) advocates for better services and supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families in Washington State.
What We Do
The DDC advocates for improved services and supports for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families, guided by our core values including self-determination and inclusion. Collaborating with various agencies and organizations, we train leaders, promote better policies, and coordinate efforts towards enhancing the lives of those with developmental disabilities. Our Five-Year State Plan guides our work, ensuring we address critical community needs and uphold specific goals. Through public policy advocacy and active participation in state-wide activities we strive to enact positive change and foster inclusivity for all.
Council Membership
Council members are appointed by the Governor to serve three-year terms. At least 60% of our members are required to be people with developmental disabilities and family members of people with developmental disabilities. Other members are representatives from state agencies and other organizations we work with. Council membership must reflect the diversity of communities across Washington State. This includes geographic location, disability identity, and racial/ethnic identity. Each year there are openings on the Council, and we are always accepting applications.
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