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Developmental Disabilities Newsletter
FEBRUARY 2026 EDITION
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26th Annual Transition Resource Fair
Join us for the 26th Annual Transition Resource Fair on March 10, 2026 at the Lynnwood Event Center. 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!
When: March 10, 2026
Time: 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Where: Lynnwood Event Center
3711 196th St SW
Lynnwood, WA 98036
*Please note the location has changed for this year!
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, 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm (meetings are hybrid – attend in Everett or join via Zoom).
Year of the Fire Horse
Lunar New year is widely celebrated in China and many other Asian countries. It is a time to honor ancestors, express love and gratitude, spend time with family, and enjoy traditional foods. Deeply rooted in history, Lunar New Year is the most important holiday for billions of people worldwide.
2026 is the Year of the Fire Horse and begins on February 17. Learn more about the meaning and cultural significance of the Fire Horse across a variety of cultures by visiting the Fire Horse cultural significance overview.
In Snohomish County, more than 117,000 residents identify as Asian American, and many observe Lunar New Year. While not all Asian Americans celebrate Lunar New Year, it holds deep cultural importance for many families and communities.
In Washington State, Governor Jay Inslee signed legislation in 2024 officially recognizing Lunar New Year as a legislative holiday. The bill’s sponsor, Representative My-Linh Thai (D-Bellevue), proposed the measure as part of an effort to promote inclusion of Asian Americans.
Washington joins Colorado and California in recognizing Lunar New Year as an official – but unpaid – holiday. In recent years, New York State and Philadelphia have also begun recognizing Lunar New Year as a public school holiday.
Here are some opportunities to celebrate the Luna New Year around Snohomish County:
Snohomish County Recognizes February as Black Heritage Month
Black Heritage Month is a time to recognize and honor the people, events, and lasting contributions of Black and African American individuals who have shaped our communities, nation, and world. More than 25,000 Black and African American residents live, work, and contribute to Snohomish County’s economy, arts and culture, science, and education every day.
Black and African American people with disabilities continue to shape American history and leadership, from early trailblazers to contemporary advocates who promote equity and inclusion. Past leaders such as Harriet Tubman, Sojourner Truth, Brad Lomax, and Johnnie Lacy paved the way for justice and inclusion. Today, leaders like Imani Barbarin, Andraea LaVant, and longtime disability justice activist Anita Cameron continue to advance understanding, equity, and representation for people with disabilities.
Learn more about these leaders and others by exploring Voices of Change: 10 Black Leaders with Disabilities.
To learn more about the work and legacy of Anita Cameron, visit We Were There Too: Blacks in the Disability Movement.
Read the Snohomish County Council Resolution recognizing Black Heritage Month to learn more about the County’s commitment to honoring Black history and contributions.
Snohomish County officially recognizes Black History Month throughout February, highlighting the importance of history, culture, and community engagement.
Legislative and Advocacy News
The Washington State Legislature is in 2026 regular short session. Lawmakers are actively moving legislation through committees as the state continues to face a budget shortfall. Here are some ways you can learn more about how this session could impact those with developmental disabilities and services.
- Check out the Arc of Washington Bill Tracker to view bills and hearings that may affect people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
- Check out the Arc of Washington’s Legislative Notebook. It includes public policy ideas that community members are working on and information to help you understand how health, education and social services affect people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD).
- Attend Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council Meetings. The Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) advocates for better services and supports for people with developmental disabilities and their families. Learn more here.
- Attend Snohomish County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board Meetings. This board provides recommendations to the County Developmental Disabilities team on how County funds are used and help shape programs that support individuals and families. The board is made up of 15 members, who serve three-year terms and may not serve more than three consecutive terms. Board members are appointed by the County Council on recommendation of the executive. Learn more here.
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The Arc of Washington State advocates for quality services and necessary funding to meet the needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families including birth to three services, special education, employment and residential supports, health care, transportation, respite and inclusion in the community.
- The Arc of Snohomish County is a family driven organization that recognizes each family is diverse and their supports and needs are unique. The Arc is an information hub for individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families and offers ongoing monthly support groups, parent meetings and information regarding community services and resources available in the community.
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The Arc of Snohomish County hosts the Parent Family Coalition. This is a membership-driven organization made up of families, siblings, foster parents, grandparents, kinships, individuals, guardians and other interested community members. The Coalition provides information and education about legislative policies, disseminates information and teaches families about the social service system, resources in their community, and how their participation in their local community builds integration and inclusion of all people with developmental disabilities. To get involved in the Parent Family Coalition, or to find out more about leadership training, reach out to Rachel Kube, Public Policy & Advocacy Coordinator at 425-258-2459 x107 or Rachel@arcsno.org.
Snohomish County Council: Page Program
The Snohomish County Council is accepting applications for its newly established Page Program. Each Council district will select two students (ages 14 – 17) to spend a week on campus learning about county government, meeting staff, and participating in mock hearings. Pages will serve 8:00 am to 3:00 pm and receive a $65 a day stipend.
Program Dates: April 27 – May 1, 2026
Requirements:
- Snohomish County resident
- Parent/guardian permission
- Teacher recommendation
- Provide a Social Security card
- Coordinate absences with school
Apply: Download the application at County Council Page Application.
Questions? Contact the Council office at (425) 388-3494 or contact.council@snoco.org.
Cold Weather Shelters Open Across Snohomish County
As temperatures drop, overnight cold weather shelters across Snohomish County are open to provide safe, warm places to stay when the forecast falls to 34°F or below between November 1 and March 31. The Snohomish County Public Safety Hub is updated daily to show which shelters are open each night. Shelters are operated by Everett Gospel Mission, LINC NW, and Volunteers of America Western Washington, with funding and coordination provided by Snohomish County. Host locations, often local faith communities, are located in Everett, Marysville, Monroe, Snohomish, and Lynnwood. In addition, Community Transit and Everett Transit offer free rides to and from shelters on nights they are open, and multiple libraries and senior centers throughout the county serve as daytime warming centers during normal business hours.
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Helpful Websites
Click on the links below to view websites.
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Front Door Events Hosted by Local School Districts:
- Monroe School District
- Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Everett Public Schools
- Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Luna New Year Events around Snohomish County
Black History Month Events around Snohomish County
Snohomish County Transition Resource Fair
When: March 10, 2026
Time: 3:00 pm to 7:00 pm
Where: Lynnwood Event Center
3711 196th St SW
Lynnwood, WA 98036
*Please note the location has changed for this year!
To learn more, please visit the Transition Resource Fair web page.
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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.
- January 8 – Clothing: Find your Style
- February 5 – Choices for Independence
- March 5 – Dating and Relationships
- April 2 – Guest host
- 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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DO-IT Scholars: Neuroscience for Neurodiverse Learners Program
- Neuroscience for Neurodiverse Learners (NNL) is an NSF-funded ITEST project that offers hands-on neuroscience experiences, networking, and resources for neurodivergent high school and early postsecondary students, while sharing research-based practices to support educators and strengthen pathways into STEM fields.
- Apply for our five-day summer program, August 10 – 14, 2026, at the University of Washington Seattle campus for students who identify as neurodivergent learners, from high school sophomores through college freshmen. Students will learn about neuroscience and neural engineering, neuroethics, and scientific communication, all while connecting with a supportive community.
- Applications are accepted throughout the school year for the upcoming summer. Priority for the upcoming summer is given to those that are submitted by March 31, 2026. Applications received after that time will be considered on a space-available basis.
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Visit the Neuroscience for Neurodiverse Learners website to learn more, attend an information session, or apply.
- Info Session Times:
- Thursday, February 26, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 5:45 pm
- Wednesday, March 11, 2026 from 3:00 pm to 3:45 pm
- Thursday, March 26, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 5:45 pm
- Join over Zoom for all Info Sessions
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 – Mill Creek YMCA: February 9, 2026 from 12:15 pm to 1:15 pm. To register or if you have any questions, email: dementiafriendswa@uw.edu
- Virtual: February 10, 2026 from 1:00 pm to 2:00 pm. Register by calling (509)777-1629
- Explore the Winter '26 Events
- Learn more about Dementia Friends WA
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- Leadership and Advocacy Workshop
- Saturday, February 21, 2026 from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm
- Virtual training on Zoom
- Get additional information here
- Register here
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Zooming Advocates - Self-Determination Luck
- Monday, March 2, 2026, 5:00 pm - 6:00 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
- Monday, April 6, 2026, 5:00 pm - 6:00 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, 4:00 pm to 6:00 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
- Working Lunch - Tuesday, February 10, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom - register here
- How to Apply for a Northwest Access Fund Loan – Thursday, February 5, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom – register here
- How to Apply for SSI/SSDI Benefits for Adults – Tuesday, February 17, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom – register here
- How to Build Credit & Manage Debt – Tuesday, February 24, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom – register here
- How to Make a Budget and Save – Tuesday, March 3, 2026 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 2026, the basic monthly payments are $994 for individuals and $1,491 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)
- Guardianship and Alternatives
- Monday, February 9, 2026, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
- Presentation by Heather Kolby, Attorney at Law; Courtney Criss, Attorney at Law and Jones & Ibrahim, PLLC
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Guardianship Periodic Reporting
- Wednesday, February 18, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
- Presentation by Denise Redinger, Attorney at Law and Redinger Law Offices, PLLC
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Accessible and Multigenerational Planning
- Thursday, February 19, 2026, 6:00 pm to 7:30 pm
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Support Decision Making
- Monday, February 23, 2026, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
- Presentation by Tim McCue, Self Advocacy Educator and Noah Seidel, Regional DD Ombuds
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- DDCS Adult Waiver Services
- Wednesday, March 18, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:30 pm
- Presentation by Grace Cruz, DDCS Case Resource Manager
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Special Education Space
- Wednesday, February 11, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Wednesday, March 11, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Tuesday, April 14, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Wednesday, May 14, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Wednesday, June 10, 2026, 11:00 am to 12:00 pm via Zoom
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- View Arc's Event Calendar
Wise Webinar Series (virtual setting and geared towards Employment
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Job Foundation Application: Accepting 2028 Grad Cohort Applications Now!
School to Work Application: Accepting 2027 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.
Front Door Events
- Monroe School District – Tuesday, February 24, 2026 from 6:00 pm to 8:00 pm
- Everett Public Schools – Thursday, May 14, 2026 from 5:00 pm to 7:30 pm
Empowering your Transition to Life After High School
The Washington State Rehabilitation Council has collaborated with the agencies named within this resource to support the development and publication of the Washington Transition Partnership Map. This resource provides a high-level summary to help individuals and families learn about and connect to transition services for which they may be eligible as students plan for their transition from high school. Additionally, it serves as a valuable tool for disability support resources and agencies to establish meaningful connections with transition services, thereby supporting individuals with disabilities in securing and maintaining employment. It is not intended to include all transition resources, many of which are available through local counties.
Project SEARCH Connects Education and Employment Opportunities for Local Transition Students
Transition students with Developmental Disabilities in the Everett and Edmonds School Districts are gaining new opportunities through the Project SEARCH program, which provides hands-on work experience at locations such as Providence Regional Medical Center Everett to help participants prepare for post-school employment. The initiative connects classroom learning with real-world job tasks – such as organizing linens for hospital floors – and supports individuals as they transition from school to the workforce. Programs like Project SEARCH help students build confidence, develop professional skills, and take meaningful steps toward independence and future careers.
Read more from the Everett Herald about how Project SEARCH is helping local Transition students prepare for meaningful careers.
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.
School-Based Behavioral Health Services
The Northwest Educational Service District (NWESD) is a licensed Behavioral Health Agency that provides school-based outpatient mental health treatment services in partnership with participating school districts. Services are accessible at specific locations and to the students directly served by that school. Student-clients receive a mental health assessment and individualized treatment to meet their mental health goals. Treatment is provided for most diagnoses including anxiety, depression, PTSD, ADHD and other common youth mental health conditions. Their therapists are trained in and utilize evidence-based treatment modalities appropriate for the student-clients. These services comply with applicable health care law. Students under 13 must have consent and participation in treatment by their parent/guardians. Students 13 and over may access services independently, however, coordination and participation with parents/guardians is always strongly encouraged. For more information contact Natalie Gustafson, ngustafson@nwesd.org or go here.
Mental Health Professionals are located in Arlington, Granite Falls (Telehealth), Lakewood, Marysville (Telehealth), Snohomish, Stanwood-Camano, Sultan. Contact your school district for more questions and/or if you don’t see your district listed.
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Everett Transit Free Youth Transit Pass
SNOTRAC
- Snotrac works with the public and decision-makers to create and connect affordable, age- and ability-friendly communities for all people.
- Learn more about Snotrac transportation services.
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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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