Tips for staying healthy during flu season!

January 5, 2023

It is “Flu Season”. Below is information from the Department of Health with tips for how you can stay healthy!  Department of Health offers regular updates on flu activity in Washington. Don’t forget to get a flu vaccine this season. See www.vaccinefinder.org or call the Help Me Grow Washington hotline at 1-800-322-2588 (language assistance available) to find a

Happy Human Rights Day!

December 10, 2022

December 10th marks Human Rights Day. This holiday celebrates the United Nation’s adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, which states the rights and freedoms that all people have. This year marks the 73nd anniversary of the document. The Universal Declaration of Human Rights is used around the world and is the most translated

Resources for reporting Abuse and Neglect

December 1, 2022

Abuse and neglect can happen to anybody. Sadly people with developmental disabilities are more likely to be abused then the general population. If you are someone you know is experiencing abuse or thinks that they are not being treated right there are ways you can report it Call 1-866-ENDHARM(1-866-363-4276) Report online- https://www.dshs.wa.gov/altsa/home-and-community-services/report-concerns-involving-vulnerable-adults To learn more about how

Exciting Works by Individuals with Disabilities

November 15, 2022

November is the best time to write and read books as it is National Novel Writing Month. If you want some recommendations from authors with disabilities look no further! · The Pretty One by Keah Brown: This book is about Keah’s life understanding the harsh realities of being disabled and black in a white, able-bodied

Remembering Lois Curtis

November 8, 2022

The DD Ombuds is sad to hear about the passing of Lois Curtis. Lois advocated for people with Intellectual and Developmental to live in the community and live the life they want. Her commitment to civil and disability rights has impacted many people. You can read more about Lois Here- https://www.aapd.com/press-releases/aapd-statement-on-the-passing-of-lois-curtis-lead-plaintiff-of-landmark-olmstead-decision/?fbclid=IwAR3EED3bzUPxK3Ao6z9UH7hNE3eh44U1I9MP5rr3F4IAUHESbNalhjCu9kw Below is an article

Happy National Disability Employment Awareness Month!

October 22, 2022

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month! Organizations around the Country are celebrating the work that people with disabilities participate in. The theme for this year is “America’s Recovery: Powered by Inclusion” The theme was chosen to highlight that people with disabilities are a part of the workforce that will be needed as the nation

Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month

September 15, 2022

September is Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month.   Just like everyone else, people with disabilities sometimes experience challenges with their mental health. However, this issue can be tackled by normalizing mental illness, providing people with mental health resources, and having a people first mindset.  One of the easiest and most impactful ways to prevent suicide is

New Youth Hospital Report

September 12, 2022

On Monday, September 12th, we will be publishing a systemic advocacy report, I Want to Go Home.  The report’s purpose is to share the stories of youth and their families who have been affected by being stuck in the hospital or have been sent to out-of-state placements.  Since youth and their families know their needs

Self Advocacy Resources

September 2, 2022

Did you know? There are a lot of national advocacy groups, and they make lots of cool things. They give out information that can help people with developmental disabilities to become better self advocates. This is a short list of websites where you can find that information. People First of Washington is the largest self

Be More Accessible on Social Media

August 18, 2022

Social Media is a great way to stay connected with friends and family. However, to many people with and without disabilities, social media is not accessible. To make the internet a more inclusive place, here are some little things you can do to make your social media more accessible. 1. Captions: Captions allow someone who