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Developmental Disabilities Newsletter
JUNE 2026 EDITION
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Congratulations to all our young people graduating from Transition Programs across Snohomish County!
June is a month filled with celebrations recognizing the hard work and accomplishments of our young people. To our young adults completing their school programs this year, we honor you, your families, and the communities that have supported you throughout your educational journey.
As you move forward, we’re excited to see the paths you choose and hope to see you engaged in Individual Employment and Community Inclusion Services as you take your next steps into adulthood. Wishing each of you a bright and fulfilling future!
Currently Accepting Job Foundation and School to Work Applications
Attention 2028 Grads – Job Foundation is a program designed to help students and their team seamlessly move into their final year in Transition. A job coach will observe the student through a discovery process and compile the information in a report that is shared with the student’s team. The report includes recommendations including actionable next steps needed for success. Job Foundation is available to students in their second to last year of Transition (ages 19 to 20 years old) and who are eligible with Developmental Disabilities Community Services (DDCS). Students who participate in Job Foundation can segue into School to Work (S2W) in their final year of Transition.
Attention 2027 Grads – Applications for School to Work (S2W) are now open. This is an opportunity for your student to access the vital resources they will need once they graduate. The S2W team will help explore opportunities for employment and the goal is to be employed before the student graduates, creating a smooth transition from “School to Work”. Students who want to work, are enrolled in Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), have SSI, have selected a first and second Employment Provider of their choice (aligned with current provider capacity) and are 20-22 years old will qualify. This team provides a network of people who are invested is the student success and who will provide ongoing support during school and after graduation as long as needed. Please note, if you have participated in Job Foundation, you do not need to fill out a separate application for S2W. If you completed a Job Foundation application but were unable to participate due to not meeting the eligibility criteria with DDA but have since become eligible before your third year of Transition, you do not need to fill out another application.
Pride Month 2026
Pride Month honors the impact that lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, asexual, and other LGBTQIA+ individuals have had on history locally, nationally, and internationally.
Pride Month traces its roots to the Stonewall uprising that took place in New York City in June of 1969 – an event widely recognized as a catalyst for the modern LGBTQIA+ rights movement. This event led to the first Pride marches in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, and San Francisco in 1970, establishing the foundation for the Pride Month celebrations that continue to this day.
Pride Month is both a remembrance of history and a celebration of resilience and progress. In Snohomish County, Pride Month is an opportunity to show commitment to inclusion, belonging, and equitable access for LGBTQIA+ residents.
Read the Snohomish County Council Resolution
Juneteenth in Snohomish County
Juneteenth National Independence Day – also known as “Juneteenth,” “Freedom Day,” and “Emancipation Day” – is an annual celebration marking the end of slavery in the United States. The holiday began in Galveston, Texas, in the late 1800s and is the longest‑running African American holiday in the nation.
Juneteenth is commonly celebrated with community gatherings, food, music, cultural events, and opportunities to learn and reflect together.
In Snohomish County, Juneteenth 2026 is a time to honor the strength, resilience, and contributions of Black community members, past and present. It is also a moment for our county to reaffirm its commitment to equity, belonging, and the ongoing work of ensuring that every resident can thrive.
All Snohomish County offices will be closed on Friday, June 19, 2026, in observance of the holiday.
View the NAACP Snohomish County Juneteenth Event
Washington for All – Where everyone has access to the resources they need to thrive
The Governor’s Office of Equity offers a collaborative site across Washington State agencies and community organizations to be your number one stop for resources that serve everyone in Washington state.
Visit the Washington For All website
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).
“Story of Us” Korean American Youth Story sharing Workshop for High School Students
Korean Community Service Center (KCSC) serves as a bridge for Korean immigrants and the wider Asian community to access services and supports to thrive in community. This summer KCSC is offering a workshop for high school students to connect, express themselves, and to build community through storytelling and other activities.
See flyer for more information
Register for the international event here
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Helpful Websites
Click on the links below to view websites.
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NAACP Snohomish County Juneteenth Community Celebration Event
Sensory Days at The Museum of Flight
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When: Sunday, June 14, 2026 from 8:00 am to 10:00 am, Thursday, September 17, 2026, from 5:30 pm to 7:30 pm, and Saturday, December 19, 2026, from 8:00 am to 10:00 am
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Where: Museum of Flight (9404 E Marginal Way, Seattle, WA. 98108-4097)
- Free Admission with pre-registration
- Sensory Days are for adults and families of children, teenagers and young adults with disabilities including intellectual disabilities, autism, sensory processing disorders and other cognitive disabilities. Guests will get access to the Museum, during off-hours*, where they can explore and self-guide through the galleries with adjusted light and sound for the best possible experience. To enhance the experience, we often provide hands-on, family activities for Sensory Day participants. Find us in the Alaska Airlines Aerospace Education Center in the Great Gallery.
- Sensory Days are intended as a positive and meaningful experience for families visiting The Museum of Flight.
- Get additional information here
- Register for Sensory Days at the Museum of Flight here
“Story of Us” Korean American Youth Story sharing Workshop for High School Students
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When: July 23-25, 2026 (English) or July 30-August 1, 2026 (Korean)
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Time: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm – Lunch is provided
- Where: Lynnwood Neighborhood Center (19509 64th Ave W, Lynnwood, WA. 98036)
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Informational Meeting: Thursday, June 18, 2026 at 10:00 am or Thursday, July 9, 2026 at 10:00 am
- See flyer for more information
- Register for the international event here
Disability Pride in the Park - Potluck Picnic
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When: Thursday, July 30, 2026
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Time: 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
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Where: Senator Henry M Jackson Park (3302 18th St, Everett, WA. 98201) - West entrance near playground, Bus #4 or #29
- Learn about Disability Pride History from Leigh Spruce from the Arc of Snohomish County
- Paint Pride Rocks and Play Games
- Bring your own lunch or bring a potluck dish to share with others!
- Get additional information here
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Register here - Register by July 24, 2026
Arc at M-Bar-C Ranch
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When: Saturday, August 8, 2026
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Time: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm
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Where: M-Bar-C Ranch (5264 S Shore Meadow Road, Freeland, WA. 98249)
- Join the Arc of Snohomish County for a day of old-fashion family fun on Whidbey Island!
- Activities: Western dress-up, playtime in the old western village, games and crafts, assisted horse rides, hot dog lunch.
- Get additional information here
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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
- May 7 – Conversation Games
- June 11 – Summer Connection
- 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
Trade School Guide for Students with Disabilities
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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:
- Learn more about Dementia Friends WA
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)
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Zooming Advocates - Independence
- Monday, July 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
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Zooming Advocates - Travel Access Needs
- Monday, August 3, 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 - Lead the Way Speaking Up
- Monday, September 14, 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
- Self-Advocacy & Leadership Workshop via Zoom
- Thursday, July 9, 2026, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
- Topic: Own My Story
- Get additional information here
- Registration Required - register here
- Self-Advocacy & Leadership Workshop via Zoom
- Thursday, July 23, 2026, 5:00 pm – 7:00 pm
- Topic: My Choices, My Power
- Get additional information here
- Registration Required - register here
- 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
- How to Make a Budget and Save – Tuesday, May 5, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom – register here
- How to Apply for a Northwest Access Fund Loan – Thursday, May 14, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom – register here
- How to Build Credit, Manage Debt & Identify Scams – Tuesday, May 19, 2026 at 12:00 pm via Zoom – register here
- How to Apply for SSI/SSDI Benefits for Adults – Tuesday, May 26, 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)
- Emergency Preparedness
- Wednesday, June 17, 2026, 11:30 am to 12:30 pm
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Social Skills and Healthy Friendships
- Monday, June 22, 2026, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
- Get additional information here
- Register here
- Cycling for Everyone
- Tuesday, July 2, 2026, 11:00 am to 1:00 pm
- IN-PERSON EVENT - Ebey Waterfront Trail (1404 First St., Marysville, WA 98270)
- Get additional information here
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Register here - REGISTRATION IS REQUIRED
- Registration closes June 26, 2026
- 2026 Legislative Candidates Form
- Thursday, September 10, 2026, 6:30 pm to 8:00 pm
- IN-PERSON EVENT – Everett Station (Weyerhaeuser Room – 3201 Smith Ave., (4th floor), Everett, WA. 98201)
- Get additional information 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.
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.
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.
Washington Residents Can Add Developmental Disability Designation to Driver License or ID
Washington residents now have the option to add a developmental disability designation to their driver license or ID card, a voluntary step designed to improve communication and safety during interactions with first responders.
The designation can be added to the Department of Licensing (DOL) system and, if the individual chooses, printed directly on the physical card. Law enforcement can view the designation through the DOL system, while medical personnel can only see it if it appears on the card itself.
Individuals or families may request the designation if they believe it will help first responders better understand communication needs or behaviors during emergencies or stressful situations. No medical documentation is required.
Residents can add or remove the designation by submitting a request form by mail or by visiting a driver licensing office. If the symbol is printed on the card, DOL will issue a new card once the request is processed.
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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
To be removed from this distribution list, please email ddinfo@snoco.org and include your full name and email address.
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