I would like to take a moment to express my gratitude for the opportunity to have served on the Developmental Disabilities Council from 2020 to 2024. I joined the council to help my daughter, who has developmental disabilities, and others like her. I did not like the direction of the state when I saw family and friends losing their opportunities in group employment. Needless to say, when I joined, I wanted to represent a voice that I thought was not being heard in Olympia. I appreciate the education I received on the state and federal partnerships and the complexity of laws and regulations designed to serve individuals with developmental disabilities. I also appreciate the Council's constant search for voices from all over the state and keeping those voices diverse to reflect our community as a whole at the state level. I had the opportunity to learn from others, professionals, parents, and self-advocates.

I was born with a developmental disability, and I appreciated the support and sense of belonging I felt from the staff and other Council Members. Working together to educate legislators and ourselves helped me to feel empowered to help make local changes. Due to family commitments, I am no longer on the council. Yet, the skills and knowledge I gained from this experience have helped me to support individuals and local advocacy efforts. I will be forever grateful for the experience and encourage others to consider joining the Developmental Disabilities Council.

Photo: Phil and his dog, Luke.