|
Developmental Disabilities Newsletter
November 2024 EDITION
|
|
Save the Date: 25th Annual Transition Resource Fair - March 18, 2025
Join us for the 25th Annual Transition Resource Fair on March 18, 2025 at Cascade High School in Everett! This free community event is open to individuals with developmental disabilities (ages 12 and older), along with their families, caregivers, teachers, and community members.
The fair will feature a variety of community agencies and offer a range of free workshops focused on services, community resources, and tools to support employment and career goals. It’s a great opportunity to connect with others and discover valuable resources to help navigate the transition to a fulfilling future.
Mark your calendars – we look forward to seeing you there!
Click here for more information
November is Native American Heritage Month!
This month is a time to celebrate rich and diverse cultures, traditions, and histories and to acknowledge the important contributions of Native people. Native American Heritage Month is also an opportune time to educate the general public about tribes, to raise a general awareness about the unique challenges Native people have faced both historically, presently, and the ways tribal citizens have worked to conquer these challenges.
There are many great opportunities to celebrate the rich culture of Native America, including attending Powwows, festivals, art shows, and gatherings; visiting tribal reservations; listening to storytellers; attending presentations given by tribal elders and leaders, and reading about American Indian tribes and culture.
Native Americans with disabilities are also leaders in the disability rights and disability justice movements. This includes Deanna Sheldon, Tulalip tribal member and founder of Leah’s Dream Foundation. The mission of this foundation is to provide social, charitable, economic and other support for families of children and adults with autism in Snohomish County. Leah’s Dream Foundation was founded in 2015 by Deanna and her daughter, Leah Stacy, is the namesake of the foundation. Click here to learn more about Leah's Dream Foundation.
Other leaders include Sarah A. Young-Bear Brown, Hoksie Benally Jr., Vesper Moore, Jen Deerinwater, Johnnie Jae, Héctor Manuel Ramírez, and Jules Edwards. Click here to learn more from the Disability Rights Florida’s blog about these Native American disability justice leaders.
Students and families, click here to visit OSPI: Office of Native Education webpage, for curricular support materials that work compatibly with standards-based curriculum. Click here to read about how they augment and enrich the instructional and curricular approach of the John McCoy (lulilaš) Since Time Immemorial: Tribal Sovereignty in Washington State.
Click here to read the Resolution from the Snohomish County Council
Click here to learn more about Native American Heritage Month 2024
Click here to learn more about tribes in Washington State
Click the links below to learn more about Snohomish County Tribes:
Save the Date: Community Summit 2025 - June 3 - 4, 2025 at the Wenatchee Convention Center
DSHS Developmental Disabilities Administration is proud to announce Community Summit 2025. The Community Summit continues a long tradition of conferences that have focused on expanding access to supported employment, supported living and assistive technology. The Summit is a two-day conference that brings together individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities, self-advocates, families, friends, partners and allies to work together toward building more inclusive communities.
Click here to learn more
Snohomish County Council Designates November 1–21 as Operation Green Light for Veterans and November 11 as Veterans Day with Resolution No. 24-049
This resolution acknowledges November 11, 2024, as Veterans Day and November 1-21, 2024, as Operation Green Light for Veterans in Snohomish County. It honors the sacrifices and service of veterans, particularly those transitioning from military to civilian life. The resolution recognizes the contributions of veterans and military families in preserving freedoms and acknowledges the importance of supporting them during their transition.
Snohomish County operates a Veterans Assistance Program to support local veterans, and the resolution also highlights the challenges veterans face, including high levels of stress and suicide risk during their transition. As part of the recognition, the County encourages all residents and businesses to display a green light to show support for veterans.
Additionally, the entrance to the Robert J. Drewel Building will display a green light in honor of veterans, symbolizing the County’s welcoming stance toward military families.
Click here to read the Snohomish County Council Resolution No. 24-049
Click here to learn more about Veteran's Day
National Family Caregiver Month
November is a time to show support and to honor our nation's vital caregivers during National Family Caregivers Month. Families are the primary source of support for older adults and people with disabilities in the U.S. Many caregivers work and also provide care, experiencing conflicts between competing responsibilities. Research indicates caregiving also takes a significant emotional, physical, and financial toll. With nearly half of all caregivers over age 50, many are vulnerable to a decline in their own health. Studies show that coordinated support services can reduce caregiver depression, anxiety, and stress, and enable them to provide care longer, which avoids or delays the need for costly institutional care.
Click here to learn more about the Administration for Community Living (ACL) and their Support to Caregiving page, which highlights how communities can work together to raise awareness of the challenges faced by family caregivers. The page also provides information about programs and councils that support and empower caregivers.
Locally, the Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board advises county Human Services staff on services for individuals with developmental disabilities and their families. The Board plays a key role in coordinating local services to ensure the efficient use of available resources, providing direct services, and developing comprehensive plans for the future growth of services throughout the county. Click here to visit the Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board page.
Click here to learn more about the caregiver’s journey through the lens of Laura Porter & Muriel Cagey, who are Swinomish Tribal members. This video was produced by Children of the Setting Sun Productions, Colibri Facilitations, and The Arc of Washington have several videos that beautifully illustrate the diverse and vibrant values within our community.
Click here to read the Proclamation from White House about National Family Caregivers Month, 2024.
OSPI Inclusionary Practices Original Films Project
Did you know? Students and young people with developmental disabilities who are included and have access to the general education curriculum and settings experience increased opportunities for post secondary education, employment, careers and overall better outcomes after high school? OSPI Original Films was formed as a commitment to socially conscious and authentic storytelling. OSPI Original Films is an embodiment of our mission through cinematic storytelling, participatory filmmaking, and action-oriented research to elevate the voices of our students, families, educators, and school communities. This informative and compelling content builds and empowers communities to create positive change. OSPI is partnering with communities and schools across Washington state to build a more inclusive, supportive educational system that increases opportunities for each and every student.
"Inclusion is the future, and we have a choice to make that change now. Where do we want to be when we look back in history?" reflected Kim Broomer, Ruby Bridges Elementary teacher and 2025 Washington state Teacher of the Year.
Launched in 2019 and supported by funding from the Legislature, inclusionary practices are a statewide effort to build the capacity of all educators and education partners to meaningfully include every student and foster a sense of belonging. This movement starts with increasing access to core instruction in general education settings
Watch the video to learn more about the power of inclusive education and its impact on students, families, and communities. For more information about this OSPI Original Films project on inclusionary practices, please reach out to Dr. Tania May, OSPI Assistant Superintendent of Special Education, at tania.may@k12.wa.us
Click here to watch the video.
|
|
Helpful Websites
Click on the links below to view websites.
|
|
|
- Friday, November 15, 2024 from 8:00 am to 9:00 am PT (11:00 am to 12:00 pm ET)
- In this webinar, the National Autism Coordinator, Dr. Susan Daniels, will host an illuminating conversation with clinical psychologist and parent, Dr. Crystal Hernandez (Cherokee), advocate Jim Warne (Oglala Lakota [Sioux] Nation), and autistic self-advocate Jules Edwards (Anishinaabe), who will talk about the intersection of their Native American heritage with their professional and lived experiences with autism. They will discuss needs across indigenous communities in the U.S. and recent projects and initiatives to increase outreach and provide resources to help Native Americans with autism and other developmental disabilities.
-
Click here to register
-
Click here for more information
12th Annual Hibulb Film Festival
- Saturday, November 16, 2024 starting at 11:00 am to 5:00 pm
- Join us for our 12th annual film festival! The theme this year is Cultural Resilience. We will be showing a variety of films and joined by a select panel of filmmakers.
- Event Location: HCC Longhouse
- To register, please call 360-716-2600 or email: info@hibulbculturalcenter.org
-
Click here for more information
Fall Harvest Party
- Wednesday, November 20th, 2024
- Presented by CFI: Center for Independence - Marysville Office
- Call or Email Jesse to join/RSVP: (360) 393-3890 / jesseg@cfinorth.org
|
|
Club Independence
- Meets the first Wednesday of the month from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm via Zoom
- A monthly group that The Arc of Snohomish County facilitates and is a place for young adult self-advocates to discuss topics for successful independent
- For information contact Brandi Piecora - Brandi@arcsno.org/425-258-2459 x113
-
Click here to learn more about Club Independence
Transition Clubs
- The Arc of Snohomish County facilitates monthly clubs in partnership with local school districts and community.
- Transition Clubs use the Charting the Life Course Tools and Philosophy in order to teach participants and practice the skills for Self-Determination, Self- Awareness and Self-Advocacy.
- If you are interested in partnering with The Arc for the 2024/2025 school year, please contact: Jessie Moore - Jessie@arcsno.org/425-258-2459 x109
-
Click here to learn more about Transition Club
|
|
Edmonds College: Pursuit Lab – College and Career Prep for Students with Disabilities
- The Pursuit Lab is a pre-employment transition service for students transitioning out of high school or looking for jobs/careers
Trade School Guide for Students with Disabilities
|
|
Partners4Housing
- Offers free webinars to learn about Roommate Matching Pool, online Residential Assessment and Consulting Services
- Next webinar - Thursday, November 14, 2024, 10:00 am PST/1:00 pm EST
-
Click here to register for webinar
-
Click here to get a free Residential Assessment
-
Click here to learn more
Benefits and Housing Review
- Thanks to a generous grant from the Dan Thompson Memorial Fund and contracted through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), our $500 review is free to Washington State residents for a limited time!
- Intended for individuals with IDD 16 and older.
- Submit your no-cost reviews by this December so you can be provided with your consultation before the grant runs out in June 2025.
-
Click here to learn more
Tacoma Housing Authority - Section 8 Choice Voucher Waiting List OPENING November 14, 2024
-
Good news! The Tacoma Housing Authority is opening its Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher waiting list on November 14th! That makes seven open lists in Washington State alone. If there are any in Washington you haven't yet applied for, make yourself a plan to apply for each one and then track the progress of those applications. Receiving one of these vouchers could be an integral piece of your family's overall housing plans.
-
Click here to see all the waiting lists available from Affordable Housing Online, and let us know if you need help navigating the site or understanding the application process. Receiving a Section 8 Housing Choice Voucher is crucial for many families and self-advocates in supporting their dreams for the future.
Housing Options, Disability Services and Benefits - Virtual Event
- Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Presented by the Arc of Snohomish County and Partners4Housing
- Topics include: DDA Waiver Services, Vouchers & Section 8, Housing Models, Housing Services Planning
-
Click here for Zoom link
-
Click here for more information
|
|
Washington Medical Legal Partnership/Seattle Children’s Hospital: Your child with Disabilities is Turning 18
- On-Demand classes for parents and caregivers of youths in their late teens who will need ongoing support as adults or help with legal decision making. Classes include Supported decision-making; Durable power of attorney; Legal guardianship; and Conservatorship.
-
Click here to access videos (also available in Spanish and Vietnamese).
-
Click here to view PDF of presentations
Dementia Friends WA
- Dementia Friends is a global movement changing the way people think, act, and talk about dementia.
- We offer free, 60-minute information sessions to anyone in the community who would like to attend.
- At these sessions, we share information about dementia, communication tips, ways to take action, resources and support that are available.
- We have adapted versions of our materials, and one adaptation is for the IDD community. The focus is dementia and IDD.
- Local Dementia Friends WA - IDD Events:
- Virtual - Zoom: November 4, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Dementia Friends Information Session. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
- Virtual - Zoom: November 4, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm. Dementia Friends CHAMPION training - For new Volunteers, must attend a Dementia Friends Information Session first. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
- Virtual - Zoom: November 19, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm. Dementia Friends Information Session. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
- Virtual - Zoom: November 19, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm. Dementia Friends CHAMPION training - For new Volunteers, must attend a Dementia Friends Information Session first. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
- Virtual - Zoom: December 2, 2024 from 10:00 am to 11:00 am. Dementia Friends Information Session. Click here to register.
- Virtual - Zoom: December 4, 2024 from 1:00 pm to 2:45 pm. Dementia Friends CHAMPION training - for new Volunteers. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
- Virtual - Zoom: December 5, 2024 from 11:30 am to 12:00 pm. Interested Volunteer Overview. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
-
Click here to view the whole list of Dementia Friend WA - IDD - November 2024 Events
-
Click here to learn more about Dementia Friends WA
|
|
-
Self-Advocates: Zoom at Noon - Self Determination and Independence
- November 7, 2024, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
- Presented by the Arc
-
Click here for more information
-
Self-Advocates: Zoom at Noon - People First of Snohomish County combined event
- November 21, 2024, 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm
- Presented by the Arc
-
Click here for more information
|
|
Northwest Access Fund: Navigating SSI Applications
- Bring your questions! Monthly classes are led by a Certified Benefits Planner and provide an overview of the SSI application process. Get tips and strategies for the application and redetermination process and leave with a clear idea of the next steps to take.
- These classes are recorded and shared with the people who registered.
- Over Age 18 Initial Application & Age 18 Redeterminations
- CLASSES ARE HELD EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
-
Click here for more information
Outreach Materials for those Facing Barriers
- The Supplemental Security Income (SSI) program offers monthly financial assistance to individuals aged 65 or older, or those with disabilities or blindness, who have limited income and resources. SSI aids in covering essential expenses such as rent, food, clothing, and medicine. In 2024, the basic monthly payments are $943 for individuals and $1,415 for couples.
-
Click here to learn more about SSI eligibility and how to apply
-
Click here to explore Outreach Materials for People Facing Barriers resources
-
Click here to visit the SSI website
Guidance for Helping Others Apply for Social Security
-
Did you Know? Social Security provides information for those who are helping young adults, and their families navigate the Social Security Application process? Whether you help a family member or friend or help someone through a group or organization, there is a Third-Party Disability Application Video Series for you. These videos offer detailed guidance for people who help claimants file a disability application, whether online or with paper forms. Specifically, the series focuses on the required forms and steps needed to file a complete third-party disability application.
-
The four-part video series includes:
-
Video 1: “Helping Others Apply for Social Security Disability Insurance Benefits”
- Video 2: “The Application Package” - The application package for filing a disability application online on someone’s behalf.
- Video 3: “Additional Information & Forms” - Additional information and forms for filing a disability application online on someone’s behalf.
- Video 4: “Tips & Best Practices” - Tips and best practices for filing a disability application online on someone’s behalf.
|
|
Arc of Snohomish Events (virtual setting)
- Housing Options, Disability Services and Benefits - Virtual Event
- Wednesday, November 20, 2024, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm
- Presented by the Arc of Snohomish County and Partners4Housing
- Topics include: DDA Waiver Services, Vouchers & Section 8, Housing Models, Housing Services Planning
-
Click here for Zoom link
-
Click here for more information
-
Click here to view Arc's Event Calendar
Wise Webinar Series (virtual setting)
|
|
Transition Supports and Services: Summary for Students, Families and Caregivers
- The Office of the Superintendent of Public Instruction developed a resource is to support students and families to learn more about how the Individualized Education Program (IEP) Transition Plan and aligned High School and Beyond Plan (HSBP) support a student to be ready for their goals for post-secondary goals. Employment providers, community members, and other agency providers can benefit in their work with supporting students and families.
-
Click here to learn more
Job Foundation Application: Accepting 2027 Grad Cohort Applications Now!
-
Click Here to learn more about Job Foundation and how it works.
School to Work Application: Accepting 2026 Grad Cohort Applications Now!
-
Click Here to learn more about School to Work and how it works.
- Please note, if you have participated in Job Foundation, you do not need to fill out a separate application for School to Work. If you completed a Job Foundation application but were unable to participate due to not meeting the eligibility criteria with DDA (Developmental Disabilities Administration) but have since become eligible before your third year of Transition, you do not need to fill out another application.
|
|
Everett Transit Free Youth Transit Pass
- For those 18 years and under
-
Click here to get your free Transit Pass
SNOTRAC
|
|
Click on the links below to quickly access one of the many helpful DD webpages!
|
|
|
If you have any questions, comments, concerns or topic/content ideas for this Developmental Disabilities Newsletter, please email us at ddinfo@snoco.org
|
|
|
|
|
