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EmpowerA newsletter by The Arc’s Parent Coalition & Parent to Parent of Whatcom County
August 2018
Empower: August 2018The Parent Coalition of Whatcom CountyPage 1
Healthy relationships can incorporate many different people in our lives: parents, siblings, teachers, mentors, peers, friends, supported living staff, vocational support, exercise coaches and so much more! One kind of relationship that is not discussed as frequently as others is intimate relationships. People with disabilities may face a challenge and discrimination of receiving information that they cannot have intimate relationships. This can result in lack of information and resources about basic needs and safety, such as body ownership and awareness as well as being able to fully understand and advocate for consent. In fact, there are many self-advocates that have a healthy and happy intimate relationship with a spouse or romantic partner. Members of the program Self-Advocacy have been discussing healthy relationships and expressed interest in wanting to continue learning more, especially in relation to sexuality and intimacy. As there are many wonderful local organizations and resources, the group welcomed in community professionals. In May, Blanca Ortega from Domestic Violence and Sexual Assault Services of Whatcom County (DVSAS) presented at the meeting. Through her presentations advocates were able to define differences between healthy and unhealthy relationships and how to recognize if a relationship is not healthy. In June, we had a workshop on intimacy and consent with Tracy Dahlstedt-Rienstra, M.Ed., Health Educator, Peer Sexual Health Education (PSHE) coordinator for Prevention
& Wellness Services, WWU. The meeting focused on the meaning of consent and communication; how to communicate and understand consent, and how to respond appropriately. Members are also empowered with knowledge on how to connect with these community advocates, seek additional information and resources, and how to ask for support.
“I love the fact that I learned about resources to look up when I need to and to go to whenever I want.” - Laura
“I like to stay healthy.” - Amy
“I learned what consent really means and how to approach it. I thought I knew what consent meant, but I didn’t.” - Ty
“I learned a lot from the DVSAS presentation and WWU last month (June). Both of those places are there to answer questions and for you to know you’re OK if you have a concern. They are always there for you to go to and are an advocate for you.” - Terri
What is our Self Advocacy Program?
Self-Advocacy, a program of The Arc of Whatcom County, focuses on various aspects of self-advocacy. Through group meetings, individual skill building, involvement in legislative advocacy, and providing outreach and awareness in our community self-advocates are able to practice their skills and abilities to speak up for themselves and others who may need support. Meetings are typically on the first Thursday of the month from 4:30p-6:30p. The next meeting is Thursday, September 6 from 4:30-6:30pm (No meeting in August) at The Arc’s Dan Godwin Community Center at 2602 McLeod Road, Bellingham. Visit http://arcwhatcom.org/wp/programs/self-advocacy/, call 360-715-0170 or email [email protected]
Self Advocacy Update: Relationships
Parent Coalition
Empower: August 2018The Parent Coalition of Whatcom CountyPage 2
Stay connected for updates through The Arc of Washington at http://www.arcwa.org/ and The Arc of the US at https://www.thearc.org/ For more information about Legislative Advocacy and how to get involved, contact Parent Coalition at [email protected]
This is Brian, Brian experiences I/DD and lives with his family
If Brian moves to Fircrest one of our state’s 4 Residential Habilitation Centers (RHC) it will cost $292,000* a year to support him. Brian will be in a segregated setting, 4 to 5 hours away from his family.
If Brian moves to a Supported Living Com-munity it will cost $125,000* per year to support him. Due to high staff turnover chances are Brian’s behaviors will increase, his happiness will decrease and his family will still be filling in the holes where his needs are not being met.
This is Brian living at home with his family. His mom Sandy, had to quit her job to care for Brian several years ago. While Brian lives at home with his family, he only receives $14,500* worth of support per year.
#Equity #Family
#Community “I vote DD” is an educational outreach effort created by the Washington State Parent & Family Coalitions. The purpose is to educate the community and decision makers about the issues impacting individuals with Intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families. “I Vote DD” tells the community that our issues are important and influences the way we vote as individuals. The # signify the importance of EQUITY OF SERVICES FOR INDIVIDUALS ACROSS SETTINGS, equity for individuals living with their families and equity for services provided in the community.
#Equity # Family #Community
*Based on average funding per person throughout Washington state as of October 2017
The Parent Coalition of Whatcom CountyPage 3
Parent to Parent
Swim Social6:30 - 7:30 pm, Saturday, July 28
Arne Hanna Aquatic Center, 1114 Potter St.
Come join us for some family fun splashing around! Children under the age of 7 must be in the pool with an adult. If you need an extra pair of helping hands to assist you in the pool, please call our office at (360) 715-0170 ext 302 or email [email protected]
Empower: August 2018
Our New Super Sitter Graduates!
Parent to Parent trained 9 youth who became our graduated Super Sitter Class of 2018. The Super Sitters undergo a detailed training, including CPR/First Aid Certification, gain knowledge about basic babysitting skills, and also learn about caring for children with developmental differences. We would like to thank Liza Bancroft for teaching our class sign language and give a big thank you to Duane Korthuis for providing our CPR/First Aid training. To find out more about how Super Sitters can support you, please contact us at (360) 715-0170 ext 302 or [email protected]
Summer Evening BBQWe had a successful Parent to Parent Summer Evening BBQ! 84 people attended and had a fun evening at Bloedel Donovan Park on Saturday, July 14th. Parents were able to share food, stories, and socialize while children were entertained by our trained Super Sitters. The children spent their time playing in our Sensory Pool, enjoying coloring activities, temporary tattoos and face paint.
We would like to thank Inner Child Studio for bringing Legos and games for the kids. We deeply appreciate Joelle Brown, Makenna Padgett, Maureen & Tony Pecaric, Dave Umbaugh, Kristi Iskovic and our Helping Parents for volunteering their time to make our BBQ a success. We could not have done it without you! This event was generously co-sponsored by Bellingham Parks & Recreation.
Parent Support MeetingsParents and caregivers are welcome to join our confidential support meetings. Have a snack and connect with others. Free childcare is available during our meetings, provided by our trained Super Sitters.
*NO AUGUST MEETING*
• September Meeting:
Monday, September 10, 7-8:30pm
• October Support Meeting
Monday, October 8, 7-8:30pm
Meetings located by The Arc of Whatcom County, 2602 McLeod Rd., unless otherwise noted. For interpretation services, please contact us 1 week prior. To RSVP for childcare, contact us by the Friday prior to the meeting at (360) 715-0170 ext 302 or email [email protected]
Community Events
Empower: August 2018The Parent Coalition of Whatcom CountyPage 4
S.P.I.N. Dance **Please note NO JULY DANCE
6 - 8pm, Monday, Aug 20 Theme: Popsicle Social6 - 8pm, Monday, Sept. 17 Theme: Sports Night
Bellingham Senior Center, 315 Halleck St.At the SPIN Dances, you can always count on lively music provided by local bands or DJ’s, a healthy snack at intermission, and FANTASTIC company!Call Amanda: (360) 778-7000 or visit http://www.maxhigbee.org/spin-dances.html
Autism 200 Series7-8:30pm, Thursday, August 16
Autism 207: Transition to Adulthood: Behavioral Support for Adults
7-8:30pm, Thursday, September 20Autism 208: Hiding in Plain Sight: Girls With Autism
Spectrum Disorder
Autism 200 is a series of 90-minute classes for parents and caregivers of children with autism who wish to better understand autism spectrum disorder. Sign up for the livestream at http://www.seattlechildrens.org/classes-community/current-class-offerings/autism-200-series/
Square Pegs Adult AutisticMeetup Group
11 - 2pm, Sunday, July 2211 - 2pm, Sunday, August 26
Community Food Co-op Connections Building405 E Holly St, Bellingham
Square Pegs is a peer-support and social group for adults (18+) who identify as being on the autism spectrum or as having Asperger’s syndrome.
Questions? Contact Kenn at [email protected] https://www.meetup.com/Squarepegs/ and look for “Bellingham Meeting”
Infants & Childrens Council Parent & Provider Networking Social
4-6pm, Tuesday, July 31Boundary Bay Brewing Co. Outdoor Stage
1107 Railroad Avenue, BellinghamJoin us for an informal networking gathering. Enjoy a cool beverage and the music of Out of the Ashes--a live interactive music experience for people of all abilities.For more information, contact Kristin Clements at (360) 671-3660, ext. 105, or Monica Burke at (360) 715-0170, ext. 303.
FACES Northwest Car Wash12 - 2pm, Monday, August 6thTerra Organic & Natural Foods
Parking Lot 1530 Cornwall Ave., Bellingham
Support FACES Northwest by stopping by and getting your car washed! Donations accepted.
Visit www.facesnorthwest.com
Bacon & Kegs FestivalFundraiser to Support
Whatcom Center for Early LearningSunday, August 26
11-3:30pm (all ages)5:30-9pm (21 and over)
Deport Market Square, Bellingham
The festival will feature beer and cider from PNW breweries, bacon-inspired foods from local vendors and live music from Baby Cakes, Lost at Last and Lindsay Street. The mid-day, all ages session from 11:00am-3:30pm will include a photo booth, games and activities (including a Pig-Out tournament), and live music. The evening session (21 and over) will be from 5:30-9:00pm, and will feature live music by Baby Cakes.VIP ticket holders receive exclusive access to the evening session an hour before general admission, additional tasting tickets and a VIP-only lounge located near the stage.Tickets are on sale now through Whatcom Center for Early Learning’s website: http://www.wcel.net.
Empower: August 2018The Parent Coalition of Whatcom CountyPage 5
Free Access PassThe National Park Service is offering a free pass to federal recreation sites for people with disabilities who present documentation of disability status and ask for the free Access Pass. This life-long pass provides that person, along with three other adults, free admission to federal recreation sites around the country. For more details, visit www.nps.gov/findapark/passes.htm.
Washington State Parks also offer pass programs that reduce or waive camping, moorage and watercraft launch fees for limited-income senior citizens, disabled veterans, foster parents and people with disabilities. For more info, visit www.discoverpass.wa.gov/131/Exemptions.
Regional Reduced Fare Permit The Regional Reduced Fare Permit (RRFP) is an ID card that entitles you to discount fares on 15 transportation systems throughout the Puget Sound region. This permit entitles you to ride the regular buses at a discounted fare. The permit is also valid on the Washington State Ferries. One personal care attendant (PCA) can ride for free with a reduced-fare passenger; the PCA must get on and off with the reduced-fare passenger. The reduced-fare passenger
must have an RRFP with ‘‘PCA’’ on the card. https://www.soundtransit.org/Fares-and-Passes/Types-of-fares/Regional-Reduced-Fare-Permit
Challenge Air Fly Day9am - 4pm, Saturday, August 18
Seattle/Everett, WAPaine Field Airport
Challenge Air builds self-esteem and confidence of children and youth with specials needs, through the experience of flight. Visit https://www.challengeair.com to register or learn more.
Rascal Rodeo2 - 3pm, Wednesday, August 15th,
Grandstand Arena, Lynden, WAAdmission: FREE
Rascal Rodeo provides modified rodeos for people with special needs of all ages throughout the Pacific Northwest, giving those who are sometimes told “no” the opportunity to be the stars of the show. The purpose of Rascal Rodeo is to show the special needs community they are loved, cared for, accepted and can do things many say they cannot.Participants of all ages are encouraged to register for this free event to learn the different aspects of a rodeo in a safe and laid back atmosphere. Many abilities unknown to the participants, parents, and caregivers are revealed during this time of being cowboys and cowgirls. Lots of happy tears are shed at these events, especially for the parents who have never seen their child of any age so happy. Rascal Rodeo invites you to get involved by volunteering, donating, or registering your loved one with special needs. No rodeo experience is necessary.
Volunteers are needed from 1-3:30pm the day of the event. To participate or volunteer, visit www.rascalrodeo.org or call (509) 528-5947. Preregistration is encouraged!
Sponsored by Coppinger Carter P.S Attorneys
DSHS Town Hall Meeting1pm, Wednesday, July 25
Whatcom Middle School, 810 Halleck St, Bellingham
Meet DSHS Secretary Cheryl Strange, who wants to know what DSHS is doing well, what we can do better, and what is important to you as we work together to transform lives.
RSVP at https://www.surveymonkey.com/r/PCYV23X
Empower: August 2018The Parent Coalition of Whatcom County
The Buddy Walk 2018 will mark the 15th year of Buddy Walk® in Whatcom County! The event is a highlight for the Down syndrome Outreach community, bringing together members, friends and family to walk and celebrate with each other. The annual Buddy Walk® in Whatcom County has grown over the years from a grass-roots event with a handful of families to a ‘full-on’ celebration with live music, activities, games and the 2/3-mile walk through Bellingham’s downtown streets. This year, food trucks will be available for particpants to purchase lunch. Last year, over 450 community members participated! DsO reaches over 90 individuals & families in our community with direct support and services, accessing support meetings, receiving information and education through our lending library, and connecting and networking with other parents.
Through the support of sponsorships & your donations, The Buddy Walk is happening on Sunday, October 7! The Arc of Whatcom County and Down syndrome Outreach of Whatcom County have the shared goal of helping to improve the lives and opportunities of people who have Down Syndrome. Since 2001, DsO has maintained an advisory committee, coordinated events for families, and supported newly diagnosed families with resources and information. Jessika Houston, DsO Coordinator, works to support the community’s expanding needs, facilitated a statewide-webinar on the Down syndrome Information Act, connecting with physicians and midwives to ensure that they and families have access to accurate and up-to-date resources in delivering a diagnosis of Down syndrome. Our ongoing challenge is sustainable funding to ensure families are served. The Arc receives funding for Parent to Parent to provide parent support services to parents of children with special health care needs, developmental disabilities, and developmental delays. We receive funding for the Parent Coalition to provide community information, education, and referrals to individuals with developmental disabilities, their families/caregivers, and the general public.
Although we have written many grants and sought out foundation support, disability-specific funding has been limited and extremely restricted. As the DsO community continues to raise funds above those in support of Buddy Walk, the additional dollars can continue to sustain education, advocacy and community events. DsO has provides new baby kits to parents of babies born with Down syndrome. DsO hosts community events including the Spring Fling picnic, summer park gatherings, new family reception and Buddy Walk. Our hope & plan is that increased giving can be used to organize community events, including childcare, so that parents are able to connect and support one another. Coordinating volunteers, securing accessible locations for gatherings, reviewing and collating new materials, all require savvy know-how to meet the unique needs of DsO families.
When I look back at the past year, I’m reminded of the challenges we’ve faced together. We rebounded from a break-in and burglary at the Dan Godwin Center. We made difficult decisions in laying off staff and reducing our personnel as resources become scarce. Our ability to recover from challenging circumstances demonstrates the commitment of our members, board, and staff of The Arc. Members who attended the Arc’s annual pizza party/meeting voted enthusiastically for events that unite and support across all I/DD families. We celebrate the accomplishments of the Down syndrome community in kicking-off a spring campaign for the Buddy Walk. This generosity helps to provide a welcoming event for individuals with Down syndrome as well as build awareness in the community for understanding and inclusion. Thank you to each of you partnering in our success!
Beverly Porter Executive Director
The Arc of Whatcom County
Buddy Walk Letter from our Executive Director
Page 6
The Parent CoalitionThe Arc of Whatcom County provides leadership support for individuals with developmental disabilities and their parents/guardians. The goal of the Parent Coalition is to enable persons with developmental disabilities and their parents/guardians to become effective and involved in accessing services.
The Parent Coalition newsletteris published monthly by:
The Arc of Whatcom CountyDan Godwin Community Center
2602 McLeod Road Bellingham, WA 98225
(360) 715-0170www.arcwhatcom.org
SUMMER OFFICE HOURS: 10am-1pm Mon-Thurs
Newsletter Production Staff:Melissa Abraham, Karlene Umbaugh,
Monica Burke, Mt. Baker High School students and volunteers
Executive Director: Beverly PorterProgram Director: Monica BurkeCare & Resource Coordinator:
Mary Jo DurborowDsO & Self Advocacy: Jessika HoustonP2P Coordinator: Karlene Umbaugh
P2P Parent Assistant: Melissa AbrahamPadres a Padres: Marta Mejia
Board of DirectorsEmily Shiels, President;
Susan Larson, Vice President; Dale Whipple, Secretary; Michelle Karaffa, Barbara Roxas, Luke Phifer
Stay ConnectedOnline Community Calendar: Visit The Arc’s website at www.arcwhatcom.org and click on Events.Facebook: Visit our FB page: www.facebook.com/ArcWhatcom for the latest information and events.E-alerts: The Parent Coalition emails updates on legislation, workshops and upcoming activities. To sign up, visit www.arcwhatcom.org or email [email protected].
The Parent Coalition is funded by grants from the Developmental Disabilities Program of Whatcom County,
the United Way and your generous donations.
PARTNER AGENCY
Empower: August 2018The Parent Coalition of Whatcom CountyPage 7
Buddy Walk Celebrates 15 years!Noon-3pm, Sunday, October 7th
Depot Market Square, BellinghamVisit www.arcwhatcom.org for details
Registration Opens July 23 https://give.classy.org/2018whatcomcountybuddywalk
Register by Sept. 14th to guarantee your 2018 Buddy Walk T-Shirt!*Registrations received and paid in full by September 14th are guaranteed a T-shirt, lower registration price, and are eligible for early T-shirt pick up between October 3 - 5 (10am - 2pm). Register by completing the registration form. Forms are available to print at www.arcwhatcom.org. To easily register online and start your fundraising page for the event, you can go to https://give.classy.org/2018whatcomcountybuddywalk .
Please note: Scholarships are available to cover the cost of registration. If you would like to apply for a scholarship, please visit www.arcwhatcom.org and print off a paper copy of the registration form, or pick one up from our office. To receive a scholarship, you must apply by September 14th. Please fill out the registration form with all of your team member and participant information. Scholarship requests will be reviewed following September 14th and you will be notified by the end of September.
Ways you can continue to help….
1. Become a sponsor or connect with businesses for sponsorship opportunities.
2. Make a cash donation to Down syndrome Outreach:
• https://give.classy.org/2018whatcomcountybuddywalk
• Donate through The Arc’s website at arcwhatcom.org. Please note on your donation that the funds are in support of Buddy Walk.
3. Join our Planning Committee: August 1 & September 5, 5:30 - 7pm
Meetings located at Arc of Whatcom County, 2602 McLeod Rd.
4. Volunteers are needed on the day of the event to help set up, give directions, hand out info, and more. Email [email protected].
5. Unable to make it to the Buddy Walk? You can simply make a charitable donation to help support DsO by clicking on the “Donate To This Event” on the Classy registration page and searching for the name of the individual or team you would like to support.
Whether you have Down syndrome, know someone who does, or just want to show your support, your participation and generosity are greatly appreciated! Anyone can be a buddy!
Down syndrome Outreach is a program of The Arc of Whatcom County a 501(c)3 Organization (Federal Tax ID #311579359).For more information about registration, volunteering, sponsorship, or general questions, contact 360-715-0170 ext 200 or [email protected]. This event is being held in an accessible location and sign language interpretation is provided.
Event CalendarJuly25 Wednesday, 1pmDSHS Secretary Town Hall see page 5 for more details
28 Saturday, 6:30 - 7:30pmSwim Social!see page 3 for more details
31 Tuesday, 4 - 6pmICC Parent & Provider Networking see page 4 for more details
August**Please note there will be no Self Advocacy or Parent to Parent Meetings in August. Meetings will resume in September.
1 Wednesday, 5:30 - 7pmBuddy Walk Planning Committeesee page 7 for more details
4 Saturday, 11 - 3pmBellingham Kids Fest Downer Fields, 1114 Potter St.
6 Monday, 12 - 2pmFACES Northwest Car Washsee page 4 for more details
15 Wednesday, 2 - 3pmRascal Rodeo1775 Front St, Lyndensee page 5 for more details
16 Thursday, 7 - 8:30pmAutism 200 Seriessee page 4 for more details
18 Saturday, 9am - 4pmChallenge Air Fly Daysee page 5 for more details
20 Monday, 6 - 8pmSPIN DANCETheme: Popsicle Socialsee page 4 for more details
26 Sunday, 11am - 9pmBacon & Kegs WCEL FundraiserDepot Market Squaresee page 4 for more details
September5 Wednesday, 5:30 - 7pmBuddy Walk Planning Committeesee page 7 for more details
6 Thursday, 4:30 - 6:30pmSelf Advocacy Meeting see page 1 for more details
10 Monday, 7 - 8:30pmParent Support Meetingsee page 3 for more details
14 Friday Pre-Registration forBuddy Walk Endssee page 7 for more details
15 Saturday, 10am - 2pmIEP Parent Partner Workshopsee left sidebar for more details
17 Monday, 6 - 8pmSPIN DANCETheme: Sports Night see page 4 for more details
20 Thursday, 7 - 8:30pmAutism 200 Seriessee page 4 for more details
October7 Sunday, 12 - 3pmBuddy WalkDeport Market Squaresee page 6-7 for more details
8 Monday, 7-8:30pmParent Support Meetingsee page 3 for more details
16 Tuesday, 6:30-8:30pmParent Coalition Workshop“Ask the Advocate”Topic: Housing
Jessika Houston, our Self Advocacy and Down syndrome Outreach Coordinator will be on extended family leave beginning in August. Please see below on how to contact each program.
Self [email protected](360) 715-0170
Down syndrome Outreach:[email protected](360) 715-0170 ext 304
2018 Buddy [email protected](360) 715-0170 ext 200
Advanced HelpingParent Training:
IEP Parent Partners ProgramHosted by:
Parent Coalition and Parent to ParentSaturday, September 15
10am-2pmThe Arc’s Dan Godwin
Community Center2602 McLeod Road, Bellingham
• Do you want to learn more about IEPs and special education?
• Are you interested in helping other families prepare for and navigate the IEP process?
• The IEP Parent Partners Program is a program that trains and matches an IEP Parent Partner with a parent wanting support at their child’s IEP meeting.
Contact Monica at (360) 715-0170 ext 303 or [email protected]
As part of the board of directors’ further evaluation of costs and to maintain funding targeted towards advocacy and service support, the Arc of Whatcom County will no longer be issuing vouchers for Value Village.
