DDAC6.9.26 - Laserfiche WebLink

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PRIORITIES The following priorities were selected by the Kittitas County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee. These five priorities will be utilized,not only for the DDAC,but also for funding and programmatic decisions during the biennium. Requests for funding and programs beyond the employment support services will,ideally,align with these areas. EMPLOYMENT There is a need in Kittitas County for more employers willing to employ people with intellectual and developmental disabilities,as well as a need for more qualified job coaches. Only 36.5%of survey respondents in Kittitas County report having enough supports to work or volunteer in the community,compared with 61%statewide and 64%nationally. Our goal is that there are sufficient vendors staffed with job coaches and enough willing employers to meet the employment needs of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. HOUSING AND SUPPORTED LIVING Housing and supported living is a major concern for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Many people face uncertain futures as their parents age,supports are needed in order to be able to live as independently as possible,and people with disabilities are affected by the lack of affordable housing in Kittitas County. Our goal is that people have the opportunity and supports needed to choose their living situation. ACTIVITIES AND RECREATION There is a strong need for more recreational and social activities that are inclusive of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Current activities are limited and people often face barriers in accessing them. Our goal is that there are accessible,affordable,and supported options for people to socialize and be involved in the community. TRANSPORTATION While transportation options are numerous for a small rural community,people with disabilities often face significant barriers to accessing transportation. Most rely on their friends and family members for transportation. Transportation was cited as one of the primary barriers to doing things in the community. Our goal is that there are options for accessible and affordable transportation besides relying on friends and family. COMMUNICATION People with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families face a complex system of services that can be very difficult to navigate. Improving the language we use to talk about these services can help people navigate the system easier. Our goal is that communication about resources and services is inclusive of all abilities.