The Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) works to improve services, supports, and policies for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families across Washington State. Through partnerships with community organizations, advocates, and policymakers, the Council continues to support initiatives that promote self-determination, inclusion, and independence.
In 2025, several key programs and initiatives helped strengthen advocacy, expand resources for families, and connect people across the state.
In summer 2025, the Council hosted the Bridge Forward Conference, a free virtual four-day event that brought together state and national leaders, people with disabilities, families, service providers, researchers, policymakers, and community partners. Participants explored the future of intellectual and developmental disability (IDD) and behavioral health (BH) supports in Washington.
The Informing Families program provides trusted information and connections to resources for families of people with developmental disabilities. In 2025, Informing Families coordinators and partners across the state supported thousands of individuals and families.
New initiatives in 2025 included a redesigned website that makes information easier to find, expanded support in Northeast Washington through a new regional coordinator, and updated materials to improve accuracy and accessibility.
Self Advocates in Leadership (SAIL) is a statewide group led by people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. SAIL members work together to raise awareness and speak up about issues that matter to the disability community.
Through the Advocacy Partnership Project (APP), the Council works with The Arc of Washington to help people with developmental disabilities, their families, and community members learn how to advocate for policies that impact their lives.
In 2025:
In 2026, the Council will continue its work through several major initiatives. These include the Council’s 50th Anniversary History and Visioning project, which will bring community members together in April to reflect on past progress and help shape the future of disability advocacy in Washington.
The Council will also release the draft 2026–2031 State Plan for public comment in spring 2026. This plan will guide the Council’s priorities and work over the next five years.
Together, these efforts support the Council’s mission to advance policies and programs that create meaningful, lasting change for people with developmental disabilities and their families across Washington.
