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Developmental Disabilities Newsletter
OCTOBER 2025 EDITION
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October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month
October 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), a milestone that highlights decades of progress in building inclusive workplaces across the nation. What began in 1945 as a week dedicated to raising awareness about employment for people with physical disabilities has evolved into a month-long, nationwide campaign celebrating the broad talents and contributions of workers with all types of disabilities. This year’s theme, “Celebrating Value and Talent,” underscores the importance of ensuring that all individuals – regardless of ability – have the opportunity to thrive in meaningful, competitive employment.
Here in Snohomish County, we remain committed to that mission. Through partnerships with the Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS), the Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR), and 13 local Career Path providers, over 800 individuals with developmental disabilities are employed in more than 550 businesses across the region. These jobs reflect a wide range of skills, from media and clerical work to hospitality and healthcare roles. As we recognize NDEAM this October, we celebrate the abilities, dedication, and impact of these workers – and renew our commitment to fostering inclusive workplaces where everyone has access to good jobs, respect, and opportunity year-round.
Read the Proclamation from Snohomish County Executive, Dave Somers.
Read the Resolution from Snohomish County Council.
Learn more about National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM).
In recognition of National Disability Employment Awareness Month (NDEAM), the Snohomish County Human Services Developmental Disabilities team had hosted a special display in the first-floor lobby of the West Administration Building at 3000 Rockefeller Ave, Everett, WA. While the display has now been taken down, we appreciate everyone who took the time to visit and learn more about NDEAM throughout October. Below is a look at this year’s display.
Expanding Access to Person Centered Planning in Snohomish County
After a short pause, Person Centered Planning (PCP) is once again available in Snohomish County. Earlier this year we shared that Total Living Concept (TLC) had concluded their work with us, and we are grateful for the many years they supported our community. The pause in referrals gave us time to complete the transition, and we are excited to announce a new partnership with Service Alternatives to coordinate planning. This change expands the pool of facilitators, increasing our capacity and making planning available to more people. With this transition complete, we want to highlight what PCP is and how it works.
PCP is a guided discussion that helps people with developmental or intellectual disabilities focus on their strengths, interests, and goals. With the support of a trained facilitator and a group of trusted people chosen by the individual, the process is creative and engaging, using visuals and graphics to make the person’s priorities and next steps clear and accessible. The outcome is a plan that reflects what matters most to the person and outlines meaningful steps forward.
Planning can be especially helpful during key points in life, such as taking part in high school transition programs, experiencing a period of extended unemployment, preparing for retirement, or exploring new ways to connect with the community. These moments often raise questions, and planning helps sort through them while opening up new possibilities.
This service is available at no cost to Snohomish County residents who are enrolled with the Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS) (formally Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)). A referral from a support person such as an Employment Provider, Educator, or DDCS Case Resource Manager is required and must be approved by Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities. For those outside the county, check with your county program or your DDCS Case Manager to learn how to access planning services in your area.
For more information, or to submit a referral, visit snohomishcountywa.gov/5931/Person-Centered-Planning. If you know someone who may benefit from Person Centered Planning, now is the perfect time to get started.
Join the Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board!
Are you passionate about helping to create a community where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families are respected, valued, and fully engaged? Snohomish County’s Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board is now accepting applications for new members.
As a board member, you will:
- Learn about issues related to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
- Share ideas about what makes our community a great place to live.
- Connect with others who are excited about making a difference and change in the community.
- Provide recommendations on how County money could be spent.
- Share ideas on County Programs that support individuals and families with developmental disabilities.
The Board meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm (meetings are hybrid – attend in Everett or join via Zoom).
Additional Opportunities to Celebrate and Grow in October
ADHD Awareness Month
October 2025 marks ADHD Awareness Month, dedicated to increasing understanding and support for individuals living with Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder. This year’s theme, “The Many Faces of ADHD,” highlights the diverse ways ADHD can present, encouraging greater awareness, acceptance, and celebration of the unique experiences of those affected.
For more information and resources, visit ADHD Awareness Month.
Disability History and Awareness Month
In 2008, Washington State legislature passed a law declaring October as Disability History Month in public schools and institutions of higher education. 1 out of 5 people in the United States has a disability and learning about the history and contributions of those with disabilities matters. What matters even more is that this is taught through the perspectives of disabled individuals.
There are free resources available to support learning, including the One Out of Five: Disability History and Pride Project. This resource is designed to celebrate the history and identities within this large and diverse community. One Out of Five was designed by the Washington State Governor’s Office of the Education Ombuds (OEO) in partnership with two local educators, Adina Rosenberg and Sarah Arvey, as a guide for schools to address Disability History Month. For more information and resources, visit One Out of Five: Disability History and Pride Project.
Domestic Violence Awareness Month
October is recognized nationwide as Domestic Violence Awareness Month (DVAM), first established by Congress in 1989 and held annually to raise awareness about domestic violence. Domestic violence is prevalent in every community and affects all people regardless of age, socio-economic status, sexual orientation, gender, race, or nationality (National Child Traumatic Stress Network). The 2025 national theme, “With Survivors, Always,” emphasizes centering survivor voices and strengthening support systems.
In Snohomish County, local organizations actively participated in DVAM through various events and initiatives. Domestic Violence Services of Snohomish County (DVS) hosted a Domestic Violence Resource Fair on Wednesday, October 8, at Comeford Park in Marysville, featuring community resources and food trucks. The community also showed support by taking part in Purple Thursday, wearing purple every Thursday in October to stand with survivors.
If you or someone you know is experiencing domestic violence, help is available 24/7 through the DVS hotline at 425-25-ABUSE (425-252-2873). Together, we continue working toward a future free from abuse.
For more information and resources, visit Domestic Violence Awareness Month.
Down Syndrome Awareness Month
October is National Down Syndrome Awareness Month, a time dedicated to promoting understanding, inclusion, and appreciation for individuals with Down syndrome. This month is an opportunity to celebrate the unique talents, perspectives, and contributions of people with Down syndrome while raising awareness about the challenges they may face. It’s also a time to honor the families, advocates, and communities who champion inclusivity every day.
Through local events, national campaigns, and the sharing of personal stories, Down Syndrome Awareness Month encourages us all to foster a more accepting and supportive world. By learning, listening, and advocating, we help ensure that individuals with Down syndrome are not only seen – but truly valued and included in every part of society.
For more information and resources, visit National Down Syndrome Society.
Filipino American History Month (FAHM)
October is Filipino American History Month (FAHM), a time to honor the rich history, culture, and lasting contributions of Filipino Americans across the United States. The commemoration marks the arrival of the first Filipinos in America in October 1587 and highlights over four centuries of Filipino presence, resilience, and impact.
Established by the Filipino American National Historical Society in 1992 and officially recognized by Congress in 2009, FAHM is more than a celebration – it’s an opportunity to learn, reflect, and uplift the voices and stories that have often been left out of mainstream history. This month, we recognize the achievements of Filipino Americans across generations and commit to continuing the work of visibility, equity, and representation.
For more information and resources, visit Fililino American National Historical Society.
International Dyslexia Awareness Month
October is Dyslexia Awareness Month, a time dedicated to “Different Minds, Epic Stories” –celebrating the unique narratives of individuals with dyslexia. This month, we aim to reframe dyslexia as a strength and ensure everyone has the tools to thrive. Dyslexia affects millions of people, and with the right support, those with dyslexia can unlock incredible potential in learning and creativity. Join the Go Red for Dyslexia campaign by wearing red throughout October to show solidarity and help end the stigma surrounding dyslexia.
For more information and resources, explore dyslexia resources here.
LGBTQ+ History Month
October is LGBTQ+ History Month – a time to honor the trailblazers, movements, and moments that have shaped LGBTQ+ rights and visibility in the U.S. First celebrated in 1994, the month was founded by Rodney Wilson, Missouri’s first openly gay public school teacher, to recognize and elevate the contributions of LGBTQ+ individuals throughout history.
What began as Lesbian and Gay History Month has since grown into a broader celebration of the diverse identities within the LGBTQ+ community. This month invites us to learn from the past, reflect on progress, and continue advocating for equality and representation in every space.
Learn more about LGBTQ+ history in Washington State.
Access more resource on LGBTQ+ History Month.
Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead)
Beginning the evening of October 31st through November 2nd, Día de Los Muertos a vibrant Mexican holiday that honors and celebrates deceased loved ones. It combines indigenous traditions with colorful altars, marigold flowers, sugar skulls, and offerings to welcome the spirits back for a joyful reunion. Read more about Día de Los Muertos.
Local Día de Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) events to attend:
- Saturday, November 1st, 2025 from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm
- Lynnwood Library, 19200 44th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036.
- Free community event - all ages welcome.
- Learn more about the event details.
- Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm
- Marysville Opera House, 1225 3rd St, Marysville, WA 98270
- Free family event
- Learn more about the event details.
- Friday, November 7, 2025 from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm.
- Edmonds Waterfront Center, 220 Railroad Ave, Edmonds, WA. 98020
- Family-friendly event is open to all ages
- Learn more about the event and to purchase tickets.
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Helpful Websites
Click on the links below to view websites.
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Community Resource Fair
- Wednesday, October 22, 2024, 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
- Carnegie Resource Center: 3001 Oakes Ave., Everett, WA. 98201
- Hosted by Molina Healthcare
- Connect, learn, and explore - discover local programs and resources designed to support our community!
- Free and open to the public
- Click the following links to learn more: English flier / Spanish flier
Transition Services and School to Work
- Wednesday, October 22, 2024, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
- Presented by Jen Chong Jewell, Transition Resource Coordinator - Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities and The Arc of Snohomish County
- Topics: Life after high school for students with disabilities; School based Transition Programs for ages 18-22; Planning for future employment; Outreach, Job Foundation, and School to Work; Role of disability systems and employment support
- Learn more about event
- Zoom registration link
Spooktacular Harvest Fest
- Monday, October 27, 2025 from 2:00 pm to 6:00 pm
- 502 State Ave., Suite 102. Marysville, WA. 98270
- Presented by CFI: Center for Independence - Marysville Office
- RSVP by October 23, 2025
- Call or Email Jesse to join/RSVP: (360) 393-3890 / jesseg@cfinorth.org
Día de Los Muertos 2025 - Lynnwood Library
- Saturday, November 1st, 2025 from 11:30 am to 4:00 pm at the Lynnwood Library (19200 44th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA 98036)
- Hosted by the WAGRO Foundation, Lynnwood Library, City of Lynnwood, Verdant Health Commission, Community Foundation of Snohomish County, and The Fat Brush: Art Workshop
- Free community event - all ages welcome.
- Learn more about the event details.
Día de Los Muertos 2025 - Marysville Opera House
- Sunday, November 2, 2025 from 12:00 pm to 3:00 pm at the Marysville Opera House (1225 3rd St, Marysville, WA 98270)
- Hosted by Keep Dreams Alive Foundation and the City of Marysville
- Free family event
- Learn more about the event details.
Día de Los Muertos 2025 - Edmonds Waterfront Center
- Friday, November 7, 2024 from 6:00 pm to 8:30 pm at the Edmonds Waterfront Center (220 Railroad Avenue #Box 717, Edmonds, WA 98020)
- Hosted by the Latino Educational Training Institute and the Edmonds Waterfront Center
- Come experience the colorful altars, lively music, traditional dances, and delicious food that make this celebration so special.
- Learn more about the event and to purchase tickets.
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Club Independence
- Meets the first Wednesday of the month from 6:30 pm to 7:30 pm via Zoom, September to June.
- 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
- 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 tool 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
- Learn more about Transition Club
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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
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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.
- Access videos of the presentations (also available in Spanish and Vietnamese)
- Watch the presentation videos (available in English, Spanish and Vietnamese)
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.
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Upcoming Events:
- In-Person: November 5, 2025 from 12:30 pm to 2:00 pm at the Carl Gibson Center (3025 Lombard Ave., Everett, WA. 98201). Dementia Friends Information Session. Questions: Email dementiafriendswa@uw.edu.
- Collaborating for a Dementia-Friendly Washington: Building Momentum
- A gathering to promote the growth of dementia-friendly communities in our state
- Monday, October 27, 2025 from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm at Tukwila Community Center (12424 42nd Ave S., Tukwila, WA. 98168)
- View the flyer here
- Explore the Fall 2025 events
- Learn more about Dementia Friends WA
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Zooming Advocates - Companionship
- Monday, November 3, 2025, 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- Presented by the Arc of Snohomish County
- Get additional information here
- For questions or to ask for accommodations contact: Leigh Spruce Leigh@arcsno.org / 425-258-2459 Ext 103
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Zooming Advocates - 2025 Reflections
- Monday, December 1, 2025, 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm
- Presented by the Arc of Snohomish County
- Get additional information here
- For questions or to ask for accommodations contact: Leigh Spruce Leigh@arcsno.org / 425-258-2459 Ext 103
- Join the Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board!
- The Board meets on the 4th Tuesday of each month, 3:30 pm to 5:30 pm (meetings are hybrid – attend in Everett or join via Zoom).
- Are you passionate about helping to create a community where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families are respected, valued, and fully engaged? Snohomish County’s Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board is now accepting applications for new members.
- As a board member, you will:
- Learn about issues related to people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families.
- Share ideas about what makes our community a great place to live.
- Connect with others who are excited about making a difference and change in the community.
- Provide recommendations on how County money could be spent.
- Share ideas on County Programs that support individuals and families with developmental disabilities.
- Apply online: https://snohomishcountywa.gov/3339/Apply
- For questions or accommodations, please contact: Trisa Harris - 425-388-7332, Trisa.Harris@snoco.org or ddinfo@snoco.org
- Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board Recruitment Flier: English / Spanish
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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.
- CLASSES ARE HELD EVERY THIRD WEDNESDAY OF THE MONTH
- How to Apply for SSI/SSDI Benefits for Adults - Tuesday, October 21, 2025 at 12:00 pm via Zoom - register here
- How to Make a Budget and Save - Tuesday, November 4, 2025 at 12:00 pm via Zoom - register here
- Navigating SSI Applications: Youth ages 18 and Over - Wednesday, November 5, 2025 at 12:00 pm via Zoom - register here
- How to Build Credit & Manage Debt - Tuesday, November 18, 2025 at 12:00 pm via Zoom - register here
- Find more information here
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 2025, the basic monthly payments are $967 for individuals and $1,450 for couples.
Guidance for Helping Others Apply for Social Security
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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.
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The four-part video series includes:
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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.
- Watch the videos and explore more information
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Arc of Snohomish Events (virtual setting)
- Transition Services and School to Work
- Wednesday, October 22, 2024, 11:00 am - 12:30 pm
- Presented by Jen Chong Jewell, Transition Resource Coordinator - Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities
- Topics: Life after high school for students with disabilities; School based Transition Programs for ages 18-22; Planning for future employment; Outreach, Job Foundation, and School to Work; Role of disability systems and employment support
- Get additional information here
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Zoom registration link
- Fall 2025 SpEd Space
- Wednesday, November 12, 2025, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Wednesday, December 10, 2025, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Housing Workshop: Freedom through connection, the power of remote support
- Thursday, November 20, 2025, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm
- Presented by SafeinHome
- Get additional information here
- View Arc's Event Calendar
The Ride Ahead Educational Webinar Series
- Disability and Dating 101
- Friday, October 24, 4:00 pm
- Presenters: Evan Sweeney and Bianca I Laureano
- This webinar is open to anyone 16 and older, and will be the first of a two-part series on the topic of disability, dating, and sexual heath.
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Find details and register through the event page
- Dating, Romance, and Sexual Health
- Thursday, November 6, 3:30 pm
- Presenters: Bianca I Laureano, Bethany Stevens, Cherry Kaufman, and Rise Osby
- This webinar is open to anyone 18 and older, and will be the second of a two-part series on the topic of disability, dating, and sexual heath.
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Find details and register through the event page
- Explore the full webinar series
Wise Webinar Series (virtual setting and geared towards Employment
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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.
- Find more information here
Job Foundation Application: Accepting 2027 Grad Cohort Applications Now!
School to Work Application: Accepting 2026 Grad Cohort Applications Now!
- 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 Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS) (formally Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA)) but have since become eligible before your third year of Transition, you do not need to fill out another application.
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Everett Transit Free Youth Transit Pass
SNOTRAC
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Click on the links below to quickly access one of the many helpful DD webpages!
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If you have any questions, comments, concerns or topic/content ideas for this Developmental Disabilities Newsletter, please email us at ddinfo@snoco.org
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