In 1990, the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council began funding leadership classes designed to educate people about service systems, strengthen advocacy skills, and develop new leaders within the developmental disabilities movement. Initially offered in partnership with the University of Washington’s UCEDD, the program brought participants from across the state together to learn about systems change, public policy, and self-advocacy. Over time, the Council recognized the importance of building stronger local networks so participants could continue their advocacy work within their own communities.

The Council responded by developing a “Local Leadership” model that funded community-based organizations to host regional trainings. This approach helped create core groups of advocates who could support one another, engage in legislative education activities in Olympia, and participate in Advocacy Days during the legislative session. By investing in leadership at the local level, the Council strengthened advocacy capacity across Washington State—laying important groundwork for future generations of self-advocates, family leaders, and community partners.