Hello everyone, happy Disability Pride month!
In July, we celebrate people with disabilities, honor the disability rights movement, and recognize the leadership, creativity and contributions of disabled people in our communities. At our quarterly Council meeting on July 16, our Council vice chairs will share information about Disability Pride Month and the Disability Pride flag.
At the upcoming meeting, Council members will also vote to approve the final draft of our next Five-Year State Plan, which begins on Oct. 1, 2026. Thank you to everyone who provided public comment on the plan. You can see how those comments were included in the July Council meeting packet.
Finally, please review the three contracting opportunities currently open for proposals. These projects will support people with developmental disabilities and their families across Washington.
Our goal is to help people live better lives in Washington, and we need your help spreading the word so that we receive strong proposals. Thank you for sharing these opportunities with your networks and for learning more about what the DDC is working on this month.
— Brandi Monts, WADDC Executive Director
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Public Policy Corner
As the next election approaches, the DDC is sharing resources to help people feel more prepared to vote. Learn about accessible voting options in Washington, where to find support for voters with disabilities, and how to review candidate questionnaire responses for the 2026 elections.
— Emily Rogers, WADDC Public Policy Director
Council Member Spotlight: Angela Randel
Angela Randel is a registered nurse with the Washington State Health Care Authority and serves as the agency’s delegated representative on the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council. Through her work supporting children, youth and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Angela brings experience in health care systems coordination, crisis response and family-centered support.
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Upcoming Council Events
Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council Quarterly Meeting
9 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday, July 16
The WADDC will hold its July 2026 quarterly meeting remotely via Zoom. Visit the DDC website for the meeting link, agenda and details.
Upcoming Community Events
People First Convention: October 2-4, 2026
Save the date for an Allies in Advocacy community meeting about building partnerships, strengthening advocacy and improving supports for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. The meeting will include updates from Allies in Advocacy, information about the Developmental Disabilities Network Partnership, discussion about self-advocacy partnerships and work on federal issues, and ways to strengthen relationships with medical and first responder communities.
Please RSVP no later than Thursday, June 19. Questions and RSVPs can be sent by email to AlliesDirector@gmail.com or by phone at (253) 304-5762.
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Celebrate Disability Pride Month at two free community events in Washington
Spokane: Disability Action Center NW (DACNW) will host the Bridging Communities Celebration from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Saturday, July 25, at Spokane Riverfront Park. It will include a resource fair, live music, speakers, food, a kids zone and more. Visit the DACNW website for more information.
Bellingham: Whatcom Center for Early Learning (WCEL) will host the Inclusion Festival from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday, July 26, at Zuanich Park, with live music, sensory spaces, art activities, games, food trucks, a resource fair and a quiet zone. Visit the WCEL website to learn more.
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Organization Spotlight: Washington State Community Connectors
Washington State Community Connectors (WSCC) is a family-driven network that supports parents, caregivers, youth, family-run organizations and system partners across Washington. The organization helps families of children with behavioral health needs, disabilities and other challenges connect with resources, training and support. Through advocacy, peer connection, training and technical assistance, WSCC helps families better understand systems, build leadership skills and advocate for services that meet their children’s needs.
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Washington State 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 statewide 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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