Thurston County highlights developmental disabilities awareness

The Thurston County Board of Health (BOH) issued a proclamation declaring March as National Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month, amid concerns regarding potential Medicaid cuts.

During the BOH meeting on Tuesday, March 11, Mark Moffet, the county's social services program manager, raised concerns about potential Medicaid cuts, noting the county receives a 50% match for programs supporting individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

“If those funds go away or get diminished, that's going to affect the workforce for our folks and we hate to see that,” Moffet said.

Moffet also presented the county's programs to foster employment and community inclusion for individuals with developmental disabilities.

"Our big program is employment, so we help people with developmental disabilities find employment," Moffet stated.

Moffet provided a brief overview of the department's initiatives, emphasizing its employment program, which contracts with five local agencies to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in finding jobs.

Moffet said the agencies provide on-the-job coaching and help clients explore their interests for a good job match.

In addition to employment support, the county offers community inclusion programs that encompass activities outside of work, such as volunteering and hobbies.

Moffet mentioned various activities, including movie nights, "dinner around the world," swimming, bowling, themed dances and karaoke.

"Community inclusion is anything outside of work because we know work is not our lives; we want to enjoy it as well,” Moffet said.

Pam Smelt, a county program client, shared her positive experiences about here job at Goodwill, where she has worked for several years.

"I like my work. … I like to stay active," Smelt shared.

The BOH encouraged all residents to participate in events recognizing Washington's diverse population.

According to the proclamation, approximately 83,000 adults and children in Washington have developmental disabilities, with many of them primarily supported by their families.

Washington leads the nation with 87% of individuals with developmental disabilities participating in county-managed integrated employment and day services, compared with 24% nationally.

The resolution formally proclaimed March 2025 as Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month in Thurston County.  It calls upon all residents, communities, state agencies and elected leaders to increase public awareness of these individuals' needs and potential, and recognize them as vital community members.