Melanie Baker, appointed to the Washington State Developmental Disabilities Council (DDC) in 2023, represents Washington’s seventh legislative district. As an advocate for people with disabilities, Melanie is dedicated to improving access to services and resources across the state. Her passion for advocacy and commitment to her community have shaped her work on the Council.

“One of the things I’ve really enjoyed is working on the Dan Thompson Advisory Committee. I got to be part of a team that reviewed and scored applications to help decide how to spend money to support people with disabilities. It felt good to do something new and to know that I was making a difference. In April 2024, I went to Washington, D.C., with other Council members. It was exciting to be in the nation’s capital, and while we were there, I got to meet with Senator Maria Cantwell. We talked to her about important issues for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. It made me proud to share our work and help make sure our voices are heard.”