HomeMy WebLinkAbout2021-2023 Kittitas County Developmental Disabilities FINAL
KITTITAS COUNTY
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES PLAN
“We value every individual as a contributing member of our community.”
2021-2023
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS .................................................................................................. 1
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ................................................................................................. 2
BACKGROUND ........................................................................................................... 3
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE (DDAC) ................................................... 4
KITTITAS COUNTY PROFILE ........................................................................................... 7
PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES ........................................................................................... 8
KITTITAS COUNTY DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES PROGRAM .................................................... 13
OTHER DISABILITIES SERVICES IN KITTITAS COUNTY ............................................................. 17
ASSETS, GAPS, OPPORTUNTIES, CHALLENGES .................................................................... 18
PRIORITIES ............................................................................................................. 20
IMPLEMENTATION: GOALS, STRATEGIES, OBJECTIVES, ACTIVITIES ............................................. 21
REFERENCES ........................................................................................................... 25
APPENDIX A: ELIGIBILITY FOR DDA SERVICES ...................................................................... 26
APPENDIX B: KITTITAS COUNTY SERVICES ......................................................................... 29
Pictured on cover page (left to right): StreetKat (performer), Devin Beach, Harry Engel, K.B. Shinn,
and Jacqueline Robinson.
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ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The 2021-2023 Kittitas County Developmental Disabilities Plan was developed by members of the
Kittitas County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee (DDAC), in partnership with Kasey
Knutson, the Developmental Disabilities Coordinator at the Kittitas County Public Health Department,
and Robin Read, Community Consultant.
DDAC Members 2017-2021
Toby Allphin
Devin Beach
Kathaleen Briggs Early
Shannon Garoutte
Deborah Kirby
Nancy Lillquist
Sarah Oliason
Anne Pflug
Charli Sorenson
Carla Thomas
John Ufkes
Brett Wachsmith
APPROVAL
The DDAC approved the final plan on September 14, 2021 and recommended adoption of the plan to
the Kittitas County Board of Commissioners.
ADOPTION
The Kittitas County Board of Commissioners adopted the plan on , 2021.
Brett Wachsmith, Chair
Laura Osiadacz, Commissioner
Cory Wright, Commissioner
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BACKGROUND
Per Washington Administrative Code 388-850-020, each county shall submit a written plan for
developmental disabilities services to the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services,
Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA), every two years in alignment with the state’s fiscal
biennium.
According to county guidelines from DDA, the biennial
developmental disabilities plan is intended to be
developed by the county developmental disabilities
advisory board and it aims to:
1. Encourage and support the ability of communities
to include people with developmental disabilities.
2. Influence the direction of local developmental
disabilities services.
3. Help determine the direction of contracted
services with input from persons with disabilities,
families, and the community.
Furthermore, the guidelines state that plans should set
program priorities, objectives, and tasks that inform and
facilitate the allocation of resources in alignment with the program mission and values.
In Kittitas County, the Developmental Disabilities Plan reflects the priorities of the Developmental
Disabilities Advisory Committee and is used to guide the distribution of both state and local funding
sources.
Developmental Disabilities Definition
Developmental Disabilities are a
diverse group of chronic conditions
due to mental/neurological or physical
impairments or a combination of both.
In general, developmental disabilities
cause individuals difficulties in certain
areas of life, such as language,
mobility, learning, self-help, or
independent living.
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DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADVISORY COMMITTEE
The Washington State Developmental Disabilities
Administration requires developmental disability
boards to exist as part of the county contracts that
provide funding for employment and other support
services for people with developmental disabilities.
Kittitas County’s Developmental Disabilities Advisory
Committee (DDAC) is responsible for developing the
biennial plan and making recommendations to the
county about developmental disabilities services and
funding. It consists of nine1 community members
who serve three-year terms (except for the County
Commissioner Chair who is ad-hoc) who are
committed to supporting opportunities for each
Kittitas County citizen with developmental
disabilities to realize his/her personal goals as full
participants in the community. Committee members
are people with developmental disabilities, or
parents of; policymakers; and invested community
members who aim to bring the voices of people with
developmental disabilities (DD) to the community.
1 At the time of publication of this document, three positions on the DDAC are vacant.
Revised Code of Washington (RCW)
The RCW provides authority to county
governing authorities to establish a
“developmental disability board to plan
services for persons with developmental
disabilities, to provide directly or indirectly a
continuum of care and services to persons
with developmental disabilities within the
county or counties served by the community
board. … Members appointed to the board
shall include but not be limited to
representatives of public, private, or
voluntary agencies, representatives of local
governmental units, and citizens
knowledgeable about developmental
disabilities or interested in services to
persons with developmental disabilities in the
community.”
Brett Wachsmith, Chair
“I serve on DDAC as a liaison to
the Board of Commissioners.
I’m proud of what has been
accomplished and I am eager to
see this committee tackle the
upcoming goals.”
Nancy Lillquist
“My role is to be a liaison
between the DDAC and the
Ellensburg City Council - to
inform the Council of DDAC
activities, and to let the DDAC
know of City initiatives that
may be relevant to the DDAC's
work.”
Shannon Garoutte
“I worked for people with
different abilities for many
years and saw the struggles
they had to deal with on a daily
basis. I also saw all that they
had to offer to me on a
personal level and to the
community. I wanted to give
back to them.”
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Toby Allphin
“I am on the committee as a
parent of a son with special
needs. We feel very good that
we live in a country that
cares.”
Kathaleen Briggs Early
“I’m on the board because I
want to serve our community
at-large, and especially those
who are more likely to be
underserved and
underrepresented.”
Devin Beach
“Too often, structural and/or
attitudinal barriers silence the
voices of the Developmental
Disability community. As a
multiple-disabled woman, my
goal is to educate and
empower the community to
accept, include and empower
individuals with developmental
disabilities.”
Auggie, Honorary Member
“I’m a 4-year-old Australian
Cattle Dog mix and Devin’s
service dog. I started coming to
board meetings with Devin a
few years ago. I stay very
focused in board meetings but
when I’m off-duty, I like to
clown around to make my
human friends smile –
especially since the pandemic
began.”
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During the 2017-2019 planning process, DDAC developed a vision, mission, and guiding principles to
help guide their efforts and recommendations to the county.
Vision
All people with developmental disabilities will have the opportunity to reach their full potential,
achieve their dreams, live fulfilled lives, and be contributing members of our community.
Mission
To foster an inclusive environment that supports citizens with developmental disabilities and their
families to participate in and contribute to all aspects of the community
Guiding Principles
INCLUSION is the ability to be present and included in our neighborhoods, schools, community
groups, religious spaces and recreational activities. Inclusion offers us opportunities to meet
others, participate in community life, and feel welcome.
POWER AND CHOICE mean recognizing what we want and how to achieve it. Power is having the
ability to direct or influence our own lives. Choice is the opportunity to make decisions that are
right for us and includes the opportunity to succeed or fail.
HEALTH AND SAFETY mean the ability to live and work in a safe place, to have access to quality
health care, and to learn what we need to do to take care of our health and safety needs.
COMPETENCE is learning to do things that make our lives better and being supported to do things
for ourselves. It includes communicating effectively with those who provide us with supports and
being able to direct those supports.
CONTRIBUTION is feeling good about ourselves, being valued and well regarded by others, and
being recognized for what we contribute to our community.
RELATIONSHIPS offer a sense of belonging, continuity, intimacy and give meaning to life.
Connection to others provides support and opens doors to new opportunities and experiences.
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KITTITAS COUNTY PROFILE
Kittitas County is in the center of Washington State on the east side of the Cascade Mountains. The
county is surrounded by several mountain passes (Blewett, Snoqualmie, Manastash) and is nearly 2
hours away from the largest urban area in the state (Seattle.) Other larger cities nearby include
Yakima (45 minutes away) and Wenatchee (1.5 hours away.) In other words, there are multiple
geographic barriers to accessing a comprehensive range of services.
With a population of about 48,140 people and about half living in unincorporate d areas, there is one
primary care physician per 1,890 residents, one mental health provider per 560 residents, and one
dentist per 2,280 residents.2 (University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, n.d.) These ratios
would be even worse taking into account only those providers who accept Medicaid as insurance.
Access to medical, dental, and mental health care is made more difficult by the shortage of providers
in addition to the fact that one in every ten adults lacks health insurance. (University of Wisconsin
Population Health Institute, n.d.)
Residents of Kittitas County experience higher rates of physical inactivity, adult smoking, excessive
drinking, mental distress, child mortality, and sexually transmitted infections compared to Washington
State as a whole. Residents have less access to healthy food sources and exercise opportunities and
lower rates of vaccination for flu and COVID-19. However, there are lower rates of low birthweight
babies, diabetes, HIV, alcohol-impaired driving deaths, teen births, and preventable hospital stays.
(University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute, n.d.)
Unemployment rates are 5.5%3, twelve percent of children live in poverty, income inequality is high,
and the median household income is significantly lower than Washington State as a whole. Severe
housing problems are prevalent as well: significantly fewer people own homes, and 20% of households
spend 50% or more of their income on housing4. However, violent crime is significantly lower than
Washington State, and high school graduation rates are higher. (University of Wisconsin Population
Health Institute, n.d.)
2 Compared to Washington State ratios of 1:1180 primary care, 1:250 mental health, and 1:1200 dentists.
3 Compared to 4.3% for Washington State as a whole.
4 Compared to 14% for Washington State as a whole.
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PEOPLE WITH DISABILITIES
According to the U.S. Census Bureau, nearly 13% of the population, both in Kittitas County
(approximately 5,800 people), and nationwide is disabled. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019) In Washington
State, 72% of DDA clients live with their parents or relatives. Nine percent live in their own homes, 8%
are in supported living environments, and about 3.5% live in adult family homes. (Washington State
Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2020)
EMPLOYMENT & INCOME
In the United States, about 24% of people 16 and over with a disability are employed compared to over
67% of people without a disability. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019) In Washington State, nearly 37% of
people with disabilities are employed compared to 76% of people without disabilities. (Washington
State Division of Vocational Rehabiltation, 2017) About 57% of people with disabilities are not in the
labor force (compared to 19% of people without disabilities), however many of those who are
unemployed or out of the labor force report some type of barrier to employment, such as lack of
education or training, lack of transportation, and the need for job accommodations. (Washington State
Division of Vocational Rehabiltation, 2017)
(Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabiltation, 2017)
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People with disabilities are less likely to work in a for-profit setting, a private company, or local
government; and more likely to work for private non-profits, state and federal government, or be self-
employed. They are also less likely to work in management, business, science, and arts occupations,
and more likely to work in service; sales and office; natural resources, construction, and maintenances;
or production, transportation, and material moving occupations. (U.S. Census Bureau, 2019)
(U.S. Census Bureau, 2019)
The median annual earnings of people with disabilities is $24,106, compared to $36,066 for people
without disabilities. People with disabilities are also significantly more likel y to living in poverty with
32.4% living below 150% of the poverty level, compared to only 17.8% of people without disabilities.
(U.S. Census Bureau, 2019)
The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically affected employment opportunities in Washington State,
especially for people with developmental disabilities. After several years of maintaining about 65% of
working age adults with developmental disabilities who received supportive employment services who
earned a wage, this percentage dropped to 44% by July of 2020. (Washington State Developmental
Disabilities Administration, 2021) In 2019, 4% of people receiving supportive employment services
earned subminimum wage and 24% were job seeking with no wages reported. The higher the acuity
level, the lower percentage of people receiving minimum wage or self -employed. (Washington State
Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2020)
22.4
13.1
10.7 9.9 9.8
6.3 5.7
5.5 5.4 5
2.3 2.1
1.7
23.2
11
11.6 10.1 9.6
6.6
4.8
5.4 6.6
4.6
2.6 1.8
2
0
5
10
15
20
25
Percent of Employed Population 16 and over, by Industry
With a Disability No Disability
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Kittitas County Employment Support Clients, 2020
Acuity
Level
Total
clients
No
hours/wages
reported
Hours/wages
reported Minimum wage earned
Average
hours worked
per month
High Acuity
Clients 10 5 (50%) 5 (50%) 3
(80% of those working) 6
Medium
Acuity 24 6 (25%) 18 (75%) 6
(33% of those working) 27
Low Acuity 6 0 (0%) 6 (100%) 3
(50% of those working) 33
TOTAL 40 11 (27.5%) 29 (72.5%) 12
(30% of those working)
EDUCATION
Just over 14% of students enrolled in school districts in Washington State had a disability during the
2020-2021 school year. Fewer Washington State students with disabilities met grade level standards
compared to students without disabilities (English Language Arts 21% vs. 66%, Math 16% vs. 54%,
Science 17% vs. 51%). Sixty-four and a half percent of students with disabilities graduated in four
years, compared to 85.5% of students without disabilities. About 22% of students with disabilities
continue with their high school education after four years, and over 13% drop out (compared to 6% and
over 8% for students without disabilities, respectively.) Students with disabilities also have lower rates
of regular attendance (83% vs. 90%), significantly lower rat es of kindergarten readiness (22% vs. 55%),
and higher rates of suspension and expulsion (6% vs. 2%). (Washington State Office of Superintendent
of Public Instruction, 2018-2021)
Acuity
According to Washington Administrative Code 388-828-9200, acuity is defined by an algorithm that
determines the level of employment support a DDA client can receive. The algorithm considers the
following factors in determining acuity:
• Activities of daily living
• Behavioral support
• Interpersonal support
• Environmental support
• Level of monitoring
• Employment support
• Speed of completing tasks
• Quality of completing tasks
• Medical support
• Seizure support
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Students
with
disabilities
Students
without
disabilities
Students
with
disabilities
Students
without
disabilities
Students
with
disabilities
Students
without
disabilities
% enrolled (2020-2021)15%85%13%87%16%84%
% met grade level standards-ELA
(2018-2019)16%64%13%58%20%66%
% met grade level standards-Math
(2018-2019)11%39%9%50%12%51%
% met grade level standards-
Science (2018-2019)Not Available 59%17%47%Not Available 46%
% graduated in 4 years (2020)Not Available 88%88%93%Not Available 79%
% continuing after 4 years (2020)Not Available 10%6%4%Not Available 3%
% dropping out (2020)Not Available 2%6%3%Not Available 18%
% with fewer than 2 absences per
month on average (2020)85%91%86%93%81%93%
% entered kindergarten ready in
6 areas of development and
learning (2019-2020)
Not Available 57%5%50%Not Available 61%
% excluded due to behavioral
violation (suspension or expulsion)Not Available Not Available 4%1%Not Available Not Available
Kittitas
EDUCATION REPORT CARD
Better than state Same as state Worse than state
Cle Elum-RoslynEllensburg
Students
with
disabilities
Students
without
disabilities
Students
with
disabilities
Students
without
disabilities
Students
with
disabilities
Students
without
disabilities
% enrolled (2020-2021)21%80%5%95%15%85%
% met grade level standards-ELA
(2018-2019)Not Available 58%Not Available 55%23%73%
% met grade level standards-Math
(2018-2019)Not Available 32%Not Available 64%23%49%
% met grade level standards-
Science (2018-2019)Not Available 36%Not Available Not Available Not Available 63%
% graduated in 4 years (2020)Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available
% continuing after 4 years (2020)Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available
% dropping out (2020)Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available
% with fewer than 2 absences per
month on average (2020)Not Available 88%Not Available Not Available 86%88%
% entered kindergarten ready in
6 areas of development and
learning (2019-2020)
Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available 63%
% excluded due to behavioral
violation (suspension or expulsion)Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available Not Available
Easton Damman Thorp
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SERVICES
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Developmental Disabilities
Administration (DDA) provides funding to counties for employment and other support services for
people with developmental disabilities. Eligibility for services is determined by DDA and is based on
Washington State residency, evidence of a qualifying developmental disability 5 that began before age
18, and evidence of substantial limitations. DDA’s caseload has increased by an average of 3% per year
over the past few years and their budget has grown an average of 15.3% each biennium for the past
decade (from $1.91 billion in 2011-2013 to $3.76 billion in 2019-2021.) (Washington State
Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2020) In 2020, Washington State had more than 14,000
people with developmental disabilities who qualified for services but didn’t receive them due to lack of
state funding (no-paid services caseload). That’s about 29% of all people on the DDA caseload.
(Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2020)
There are 33 children and 174 adults in Kittitas County currently enrolled in DDA. Fifty -four individuals
are on the no-paid caseload, or 26%. In 2019, Kittitas County served 70 individual s in employment
services (2 in group supported employment and 36 in individual employment) and community inclusion
services (35).6 (Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2020)
The average number of days per week that Washington State individuals in supported living programs
accessed community-based activities dropped from nearly 5 days per week in 2017 -2019 to around 3-
3.5 days per week in 2020 (Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2021), likely
because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
5 The Revised Code of Washington 71A.10.020(5) defines a developmental disability as: “a disability attributable to
intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or another neurological or other condition of an individual
found by the secretary to be closely related to an intellectual disability or to require treatment similar to that
required for individuals with intellectual disabilities, which originates before the individual attains age eighteen,
which has continued or can be expected to continue indefinitely, and which constitutes a substantial limitation to
the individual.”
6 See next section “Kittitas County Developmental Disabilities Program” for definitions and descriptions of each
service/program. Pages 12-13.
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KITTITAS COUNTY DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES PROGRAM
The Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, Developmental Disabilities
Administration (DDA) provides funding to counties for employment and other support services for
people with developmental disabilities. Eligibility for services is determined by DDA and is based on
Washington State residency, evidence of a qualifying developmental disabil ity7 that began before age
18, and evidence of substantial limitations (see more detailed information about eligibility for DDA
services in Appendix A). The funding varies based on availability, number of people receiving services,
and the needs of each individual and is intended to help people keep a job or gain skills for obtaining
employment. Kittitas County has received an average of around $600,000 per year for the past 5 years
from DDA.
Additionally, per Revised Code of Washington 71.20.110, counties are required to annually budget and
levy a property tax for developmental disabilities or mental health services. In Kittitas County, this tax
is split equally between developmental disabiliti es and mental health services. Commonly referred to
as “millage”, the county has discretion on how these funds are spent. The developmental disabilities
program has received around $100,000 annually from this tax over the past 2 years.
Kittitas County’s developmental disabilities (DD) program is overseen by the Kittitas County Public
Health Department through a qualified and experienced DD Coordinator. The county publishes an open
Request for Qualifications (RFQ) to solicit qualified employment support providers. Responses to the
RFQ are reviewed thoroughly by the DD Coordinator and DDA staff, and if qualifications are met, the
provider is placed on a list of available employment services providers for clients to choose from when
they qualify for services. A Request for Proposals (RFP) is also published to solicit proposals from local
agencies who propose to provide indirect services related to community information and education,
training, and/or other activities that will benefit people living with developmental disabilities, their
families, and/or service providers. The proposals are reviewed by the DD Coordinator and the
Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee, who make funding recommendations for approval by
the Kittitas County Board of Commissioners.
DD services funded by DDA fall into two major categories: Consumer Support Services and Additional
Consumer Services, each of which contain several different specific services that can be provided.
Each type of service as well as the targeted outcomes for that service are described below.
Approximately 5% of the Additional Consumer Services funding is set aside each year for emerging
needs that may come about during the biennium, such as new trainings or sponsorships.
7 The Revised Code of Washington 71A.10.020(5) defines a developmental disability as: “a disability attributable to
intellectual disability, cerebral palsy, epilepsy, autism, or another neurological or other condition of an individual
found by the secretary to be closely related to an intellectual disability or to require treatment similar to that
required for individuals with intellectual disabilities, which originates before the individual attains age eighteen,
which has continued or can be expected to continue indefinitely, and which constitutes a substantial limitation to
the individual.”
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CONSUMER SUPPORT SERV ICES
INDIVIDUAL SUPPORTED EMPLOYMENT
Individual Supported Employment (ISE) services are part of
an individual’s pathway to employment and are tailored to
individual needs, interests, and abilities. They are
intended to promote career development. These are
individualized services necessary to help persons with
developmental disabilities obtain and continue integrated
employment at or above the state’s minimum wage in the
general workforce. Supported employment occurs in a
variety of typical, integrated workplace environments.
Supports can be provided to the client, employers, and/or
coworkers through activities such as on-the-job training, job
restructuring, and technical assistance to employers and
coworkers. In Washington State, clients receiving ISE received an
average of 2.5 support hours per week, worked an average of 10
hours per week, and earned an average of $138.00 per week in
2019. (Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration, 2020)
2021-2023 Targeted Outcomes for ISE
• Increase the percentage of ISE clients reporting hours/wages from 72.5% (2020) to 80%
by June 30, 2023.
• Increase the percentage of working ISE clients who make at least minimum wage from
41% (2020) to 100% by June 30, 2023.
• Increase the average hours per month worked by employed high acuity clients from 6
(2020) to 10 by June 30, 2023.
COMMUNITY INCLUSION
Community Inclusion (CI) services are designed to promote
individualized skill development, independent living, and
community integration for individuals to learn how to
engage in their local community actively and freely.
Service providers assist individuals in participating in
activities that provide opportunities to develop
relationships and to learn, practice, and apply skills that
result in greater independence and community inclusion.
Examples of community access services may be aiding in
obtaining membership or participating in community
organizations, training for volunteer work, and support in
building relationships.
2021-2023 Targeted Outcomes for CI
• Increase the percentage of clients participating
in volunteer work from 3% (2020) to 10% by June
30, 2023.
• Ensure that at least 50% of clients participating in volunteer work can do so for at least
20 hours per month on average.
2020
Number of Individuals
Receiving Service 40
Organizations
Providing Service
Elmview
Entrust
Amount of Funding $227,869
2020
Number of Individuals
Receiving Service 34
Organizations
Providing Service
Elmview
Entrust
Amount of Funding $121,713
Individual Supported
Employment services are
for working-age adults.
Community Inclusion
Services are for adults
who are not in the
workforce, mostly
seniors.
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ADDITIONAL CONSUMER SERVICES
COMMUNITY INFORMATION AND EDUCATION
These services are intended to inform and/or educate the
public about developmental disabilities and related
services. This may include
information and referral
services; activities aimed
at promoting public
awareness and
involvement; and
community consultation,
capacity building and
organization activities.
Kittitas County reaches 450+ people per year on average
with these services.
TRAINING
There are two types of training that can be funded: Staff
Training and Board
Training.
• Staff Training includes
costs incurred by the
program for the
planned, structured
activities for the
purpose of providing,
or improving, or
enhancing job-related
knowledge and skills of staff, providers, volunteers, or interning
students in the provision of developmental disability services.
• Board Training includes costs incurred by the program for planned, structured activities designed to
provide, improve, or enhance program-related skills of board or advisory committee members.
OTHER ACTIVITIES
Other activities can fund a variety of different projects. There was no funding designated for Other
Activities in 2020.
• Infrastructure projects: Projects in support of clients not of working age. Examples include
planning services like benefits planning and generic job development.
• Start-up projects: Projects that directly benefit the agency. Examples include equipment purchases
and agency administrative support.
• Partnership projects: Collaborative partnerships with school districts, employment providers,
families, employers, and other community collaborators needed to provide employment supports
and services to young adults to become employed.
2020
Organization Yakima Valley
Memorial
Services
Early
intervention
services
Funding $2,106
Organization Kittitas Valley
Opportunities
Services Parent and
family support
Funding $15,000
Organization WISE
Services Training
Funding $15,550
Organization Robin Read
Consulting
Services Facilitation and
planning
Funding $919
Community Information
and Education primarily
serves young children
(birth to pre-K), school
age children, and their
families.
Training is designated
for organizations and
their staff who provide
DDA-funded services as
well as the
Developmental
Disabilities Advisory
Committee.
16
2021-2023 Targeted Outcomes
• Identify children with developmental disabilities by administering the Ages and Stages
Questionnaire to at least 20 children in Kittitas County per year.
• Conduct at least 35 parent support meetings per year.
• Complete at least 16 hours per year of professional development for service provider
staff or boards/advisory committees.
• Utilize at least 5% of available funding to assist with activities that address emerging
needs.
• Develop priorities, goals, and strategies for the DDAC and the next biennial plan by
June 30, 2023.
17
OTHER DISABILITIES SERVICES IN KITTITAS COUNTY
While the services funded through the Kittitas County government focus on employment supports,
community inclusion, early intervention, and family supports; the overarching service system provides
more comprehensive opportunities for support. The graphic below, created by the Developmental
Disabilities Advisory Committee, displays the complexity of the service system in Kittitas County. A
detailed list of these services can be found in Appendix B.
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ASSETS, GAPS, OPPORTUNTIES, CHALLENGES
The Developmental Disabilities Advisory Committee has conducted an analysis of services in Kittitas
County based on available information. Assets are strengths in our community that may be able to be
built upon. Gaps are areas where the county is not meeting the need of people with developmental
disabilities. Opportunities are potential actions that could be taken to improve services. Finally,
challenges are areas that may need additional resources to solve.
ASSETS
• Dedicated and committed DDAC
• A community that cares about and embraces people with developmental disabilities
• Professionals with valuable training and people with lived experience
• Local policy makers who value community input
• A strong network of social support for parents of people with disabilities
GAPS
• Few qualified service providers
• Lack of vocational/trade education and job training programs that align with area employers
• Limited number of continuous community employment and transition placements
• Social skills curriculum for students in special education does not address sex education,
dating, bullying, social anxiety, depression, and substance abuse
• No mental health court program
• No one tenth of one percent sales tax for mental health and substance use disorder treatments
• Limited opportunities for respite care
• Lack of awareness about the issues faced by people with developmental disabilities by policy
makers, law enforcement, and the public
• Services that are culturally appropriate
• Lack of adequate transportation to access services, jobs, and the community
OPPORTUNITIES
• Resources and opportunities for joint programs with Central Washington University and their
students
• Central Washington University and the agriculture industry are underutilized for employment
opportunities.
• Increased momentum to pass the one tenth of one percent sales tax for mental health and
substance use disorder treatments
• Building alliances between existing nonprofit agencies and private citizens to create more
housing options
• Involve people with developmental disabilities in DDAC and other related activities
• Increase awareness and opportunities for advocacy
• Improve how people with disabilities can access information about services
• Build momentum for a mental health court program
• Increase engagement and education with law enforcement agencies
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CHALLENGES
• Many children with developmental disabilities live in single parent families further limiting the
time and resources these families must seek and use existing services
• A greater number of Hispanic children and families are entering the service system and w ill
continue to do so, creating access and culturally appropriate practice challenges for the
service system.
• Most adult persons with cognitive disabilities in Kittitas County live with their families rather
than independently or in supported residential placements. As baby boomer parents age,
community responsibility for vulnerable adults will increase.
• People with developmental disabilities are often not involved in decisions that affect them
• It’s difficult and complicated to know what services are avail able and how to access them
• High rate of no-paid case load
• Interactions with law enforcement often have poor outcomes
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PRIORITIES
The following priorities were selected by the Kittitas County Developmental Disabilities Advisory
Committee through a process that included facilitated brainstorming, affinity diagramming,
prioritization, goal setting, and action planning . These four 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. Additionally,
the DDAC identified a core value of ensuring the inclusion and involvement of people with DD and
their families in addressing these priorities.
POLICY MAKER ENGAGEMENT
Policy makers at the state or local levels often do not have much knowledge or awareness about t he
issues faced by people with developmental disabilities and often people with DD don’t have a seat at
the table discussion issues that affect them. To bring the voices of people with DD and increase
knowledge and awareness, our goal is to serve as liaisons to policy makers to increase awareness
and facilitate solutions to the issues faced by people with DD. The goal will be accomplished
through strategies involving policy makers at the city, county, and state levels.
COMMUNITY INCLUSIVITY AND ACCEPTA NCE
People with DD often remain invisible to the general community which can lead to discrimination,
conflict, and even violence. Our goal is to help our community be more inclusive and accepting of
people with DD through public events and communications.
RESOURCE AND SERVICE EDUCATION
Even in a small rural community such as Kittitas County, it can be difficult to know what resources and
services are available. To make this information and the resources more accessible, we aim to
education families, individuals, and the public about services available for people with DD. We will
do this through improving and communicating current information about services.
CONFLICT REDUCTION AND IMPROVED COMMUNICATION
People with DD often find themselves in conflict with the public, law enforcement, or the courts due to
a lack of understanding and/or difficulties in communication. To reduce conflict and improve
communication with people with DD, we will collaborate with local law enforcement, improve
common language about people with DD, and advocate for the establishment of a mental health court
program.
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IMPLEMENTATION: GOALS, S TRATEGIES, OBJECTIVES, ACTIVITIES
A goal is what we aim to do to address our priorities. The strategies are how we will accomplish our
goal. The objectives provide measurable targets for strategy implementation. Finally, the activities,
timeline, and person responsible outline our action plan for making progress.
Goal I Serve as a liaison to policy makers to increase awareness and facilitate solutions to
the issues faced by people with DD.
Strategy A Make recommendations to BOCC about services, gaps in services, and budget for DD
services
Objectives
1. Present recommendations to the county DD coordinator about the county DD
budget by November of each year.
2. Complete a biannual DD plan that includes a picture of DD in Kittitas County, a
description of services, an analysis of gaps in services, and priority areas of
improvement every other year by June.
3. Provide feedback and recommendations to BOCC about DD issues as needed
and/or upon request.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Review and make recommendation on
county DD budget Annually in October DDAC
Establish a DD biennial plan subcommittee Every odd year in January DDAC
Review and update DD biennial plan Every odd year by May DDAC
Present plan to BOCC during special
meeting Every odd year by June DDAC
Identify other priority areas or emerging
issues to provide feedback on Annually in January DDAC
Strategy B Educate and inform other local policy makers about the issues faced by people with DD.
Objectives 1. Conduct a presentation to at least one other local policy maker group annually.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Create a standard, yet customizable
presentation or presentation outline By December 2021 DDAC or Subcontractor
Identify list of other policy maker groups to
present to By December 2021 DDAC
Prioritize groups and set up calendar of
presentations By January 2022 DDAC or Subcontractor
Schedule presentations By March 2022 DDAC or Subcontractor
Tailor and conduct presentations Annually, as scheduled DDAC or Subcontractor
Strategy C Advocate to the state legislature about issues affecting people with DD.
Objectives
1. Identify at least one priority issue each legislative session to advocate for or
against by January of each year.
2. Provide at least 3 different communications to legislators about the issue during
the legislative session.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Review and research list of legislative
priorities by state association Annually by December DD Coordinator
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Present legislative issues to DDAC for
prioritization Annually by January DD Coordinator
Select priority legislative issues Annually by January DDAC
Identify communication methods Annually by February DDAC
Finalize communication to legislators Annually by February DDAC or Subcontractor
Goal II Help the community be more inclusive to and accepting of people with DD.
Strategy A Support the annual Let It Shine event through promotion, outreach, planning and other
activities upon request.
Objectives
1. Assign at least 2 members of DDAC to participate in the planning committee for
the Let It Shine event by October of each year.
2. Promote the Let It Shine event through at least 10 different venues by April of
each year.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Nominate and finalize 2 members to
participate in planning Annually by December DDAC
Schedule monthly updates of event
planning and requests for assistance Monthly DD Coordinator
Create promotional plan Annually by February Event Planning Committee
Conduct promotion Annually in March DDAC
Attend event Annually in April DDAC
Strategy B Coordinate activities for DD awareness months, weeks, and days.
Objectives 1. Select at least one DD awareness date per year to participate in.
2. Conduct at least 2 activities for the DD awareness date annually.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Identify possible dates for DD awareness
activities By December annually DDAC
Finalize dates By December annually DDAC
Identify key partners By January annually DDAC
Establish subcommittee or subcontractor By January annually DDAC
Determine activities By February annually Subcommittee or
Subcontractor
Conduct/implement activities Annually DDAC or Subcontractor
Strategy C Connect Parent to Parent social media messages to other relevant social media outlets.
Objectives 1. Increase Parent to Parent social media connections by at least 3 annually.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Identify current Parent to Parent social
media connections By July 2022 DDAC
Create list of possible new connections By September 2022 DDAC
Prioritize new connections By October 2022 DDAC
Reach out and make connections By December 2022 DDAC
Strategy D Create and/or distribute short videos about people with DD and Disability 101.
Objectives 1. Distribute videos about people with DD through at least 3 different venues or
modes of communication annually.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Identify what videos currently exist By January 2023 DDAC
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Decide if additional, local videos are
needed By February 2023 DDAC
Identify venues of communication By March 2023 DDAC
Schedule and conduct screenings,
distribute By June 2023 DDAC
Goal III Educate families, individuals, and the general public about services available for
people with DD.
Strategy A Ensure resources for people with development disabilities and their support systems are
easily accessible and readily available.
Objectives
1. Ensure a list of resources is available through at least 3 different modes of
communication.
2. Ensure the list of resources is updated at least annually.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Connect with transition council about
current resource list By December 2021 DD Coordinator
Identify and fill gaps By March 2022 DDAC
Identify new venues to distribute
information By June 2022 DDAC
Schedule annual update of list By July 2022 DD Coordinator
Goal IV Help to reduce conflict and improve communication with people with DD.
Strategy A Support the process to create a mental health court program by advocating for the
inclusion and representation of people with DD.
Objectives 1. Ensure at least one representative of DDAC is included in conversations about a
mental health court program.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Identify representative By September 2021 DDAC
Include updates at least quarterly at DDAC
meetings Quarterly Representative
Conduct research on how these programs
affect people with DD By December 2021 Representative
Strategy B Provide community information on changing our language and the way we speak about
DD and people with DD.
Objectives 1. Provide messaging on DD language through at least 3 different venues, at least
twice per year.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Collect information and resources on
“changing our language and the way we
speak about DD and people with DD”
By October 2021 DDAC
Identify venues for distribution By November 2021 DDAC
Create primer/infographic By December 2021 DDAC or Subcontractor
Distribute/communicate Annually DDAC or Subcontractor
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Strategy C Collaborate with local law enforcement agencies to improve services and interactions
with people with DD.
Objectives 1. Establish collaboration with at least 60% of Kittitas County’s law enforcement
agencies.
ACTIVITIES TIMELINE PERSON RESPONSIBLE
Collect information about what (if
anything) local law enforcement does for
training and information about interacting
and providing services to people with DD
December 2022 DDAC
Research best practices and potential
funding opportunities for improving
services and interactions between law
enforcement and people with DD
March 2023 DDAC
Establish collaboration to improve
interactions with local law enforcement June 2023 DDAC
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REFERENCES
U.S. Census Bureau. (2019). Kittitas County Geography Profile. Retrieved July 25, 2021, from United
State Census Bureau: https://data.census.gov/cedsci/profile?g=0500000US53037
University of Wisconsin Population Health Institute. (n.d.). County Health Rankings & Roadmaps.
Retrieved July 23, 2021, from
https://www.countyhealthrankings.org/app/washington/2021/rankings/kittitas /county/outco
mes/overall/snapshot
Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration. (2020). Developmental Disabilities
Administration 2020 Caseload and Cost Report. Washington State Department of Social and
Health Services. Retrieved September 6, 2021, from
https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/DDA/dda/documents/2020%20DDA%20Caseload%
20and%20Cost%20Report.pdf
Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration. (2021). Strategic Plan Metrics 2021-2023.
Washington State Department of Social and Health Services. Retrieved July 25, 2021, from
https://www.dshs.wa.gov/data/metrics/DDA.pdf
Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabiltation. (2017). Disability & DVR Statistics Report.
Retrieved July 25, 2021, from
https://www.dshs.wa.gov/sites/default/files/dvr/pdf/2017%20Disability%20%26%20DVR%20Stat
istics%20Report.pdf
Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. (2018 -2021). Washington State Report
Card. Retrieved September 6, 2021, from https://washingtonstatereportca rd.ospi.k12.wa.us/
Washington State Office of Superintendent of Public Instruction. (2020). Washington State Report Card.
Retrieved September 6, 2021, from https://washingtonstatereportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us/
Washington State Office of Superintendent of Publi c Instruction. (2020-2021). Washington State Report
Card. Retrieved September 6, 2021, from https://washingtonstatereportcard.ospi.k12.wa.us/
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APPENDIX A: ELIGIBILITY FOR DDA SERVICES
Individuals who want to participate in Employment and Day Programs must be eligible to be on a
Waiver Program through DDA that provides employment funding. Funding for these services comes
through a federal program under Title XIX Medicaid called the Home a nd Community-Based Services
(HCBS) Waivers. The HCBS waivers allow the state to use Medicaid funding while “waiving” Medicaid
rules that require services to be provided in an institutional setting. The purpose of the waivers is to
provide integrated, community-based services to individuals with developmental disabilities. Waivers
Provide an alternative to institutional services. To assist consumers in selecting the right Waiver
Program, a description of the Waiver Programs and the services provided under each program is listed
on the following page.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR A WAIVER PROGRAM?
Eligibility for waiver services includes people with developmental disabilities who:
• Are clients of DSHS Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA),
• Meet disability criteria established by the Social Security Administration (SSA),
• Are eligible for Medicaid services in an institution,
• Have been determined to need home and community-based services in order to live in the
community, and
• Have an individual gross income that does not exceed 300 percent of the Supplement Security
Income benefit amount and individual resources that do not exceed $2,000 (Parental income is
not considered for children.)
TYPES OF WAIVER PROGRAMS
BASIC PLUS WAIVER
This waiver program is for people who live with their families, on their own, in an adult family home,
in another setting with assistance or an Adult Residential Care Assisted Living Facility (ARC) and are at
high risk of out of home placement. Services covered include the following:
• Hours per year available for Supported Employment or, Community Access, based on DDA
assessment and employment status.
• Up to $6,192 is available for any combination of Skilled Nursing (Nursing Delegation);
Community Guide; Environmental Accessibility; Adaptations; Specialized Medical
Equipment/Supplies; Occupational Therapy; Specialized Psychiatric Services; Physical Therapy;
Speech, Hearing and Language Services; Staff/Family Consultation and Training; Behavioral
Health Stabilization; and Transportation to a Waiver Service.
• Behavioral Health Stabilization Services
• Respite is based on assessed need.
• $6,000 per year available for Emergency Assistance.
CORE WAIVER
This waiver is intended for people who are at immediate risk of out of home placement and need up to
24-hour residential services. Services covered include: Residential Services, Behavior Support,
Therapies, Environmental Adaptations, Skilled Nursing, Employment services, Specialized Medical
Equipment and Supplies and more.
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COMMUNITY PROTECTION WAIVER
This waiver is for people who need 24-hour on-site awake staff supervision and therapies to maintain
their own and community safety. Services covered include: Residential Services, Behavior Support,
Therapies, Environmental Adaptations, Skilled Nursing, Employment services, Specialized Medical
Equipment and Supplies and more.
INDIVIDUAL & FAMILY SERVICES WAIVER (IFS)
This waiver became effective June 1, 2015, and offers support to clients living with a family member in
the community. The intent of this program is to provide support and services to family members,
centered on the needs of the client and the family. Services covered include the following:
• IFS funding levels range from $1,200 to $3,600, depending on assessed need (determined by
assessment).
• IFS services include Respite; Behavior Support and Consultation; Community Engagement;
Home and Vehicle Modifications; Peer Mentoring; Assistive Technology and Speech;
Occupational, and Physical Therapies; Person Centered Plan Facilitation; Specialized clothing
and nutrition; Skilled Nursing; and Transportation to a Waiver Service.
• IFS services can be used in any combination, not to exceed a client’s annual allocation.
CHILDREN’S INTENSIVE IN-HOME BEHAVIORAL SUPPORT (CIIBS)
This waiver combines wrap-around planning with positive behavior supports to empower families to
remain together. To be eligible for CIIBS, your child must be between the ages 8 through 20 years old
living with their family and are assessed at high or severe risk of out of home placement due to
challenging behaviors. Services covered are determined by the Individual Support Plan with an average
cost of service, including respite, of $4000 per month per client for any combination of the following
services: Skilled Nursing, Nurse Delegation and Behavior Support and Consultation; Environmental
Accessibility Adaptations; Assistive Technology; Therapeutic Equipment and Supplies; Specialized
Medical Equipment/Supplies; Specialized Nutrition and clothing; Vehicle Modifications; Occupational
Therapy; Specialized Psychiatric Services; Physical Therapy; Speech, Hearing and Language Services;
Staff/Family Consultation and Training; and Transportation.
ACCESSING WAIVER SERVICES
STEP 1
In order to access county funded services, individuals with developmental disabilities must be
determined eligible for services through the Developmental Disabilities Administration (DDA). To apply
for DDA services in our area eligibility paperwork can be requested from the following number, email
or web address:
Toll Free: 1-866-715-3646
Email: R1ServiceRequestB@dshs.wa.gov
Website: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/dda/service-and-information-request
STEP 2
Once an individual has been determined eligible for DDA services, and has been assigned to a Case
Resource Manager (CRM), a person-centered DDA assessment will be completed. The assessment
determines what services a person may be eligible for. If certain c riteria are met, a request to be
placed on a Waiver Program can be made. There are a variety of resources available through the
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Waiver Programs and the case resource manager will help guide a person in selecting the appropriate
Waiver Program that includes employment and day services.
STEP 3
After a person has been determined eligible for a waiver program that offers employment services;
their assigned case resource manager will provide information about local employment vendors. It is
recommended that the person seeking services and their family representatives take time to meet with
local providers to determine which provider is going to be the best fit. Once a person has selected their
employment provider, the employment provider will start the intake and discovery process to start
them on their pathway to employment.
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APPENDIX B : KITTITAS COUNTY SERVICES
B HEARD B STRONG B PROUD
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-607-4470
Website: https://www.facebook.com/BHeardBStrongBProud17/,
https://bheardbstrongbproud.wordpress.com/
CENTRAL W ASHINGTON DISABILITY RESOURCES
301 East 2nd Avenue
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-962-9620
Website: http://mycwdr.org
CHILDREN’S VILLAGE
3801 Kern Rd.
Yakima, WA 98902
Phone: 509-574-3200
Website: https://www.yakimachildrensvillage.org/our-services.asp
CHILDREN WITH SPECIAL HEALTHCARE NEEDS PROGRAM
Community Health of Central Washington
521 E Mountain View Ave
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-306-1740
Website: https://www.chcw.org/stepscyshcn-children-special-health-care/
CLE ELUM ROSLYN SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL PROGRAMS
2960 SR 903
Cle Elum, WA 98922
Phone: 509-649-4807
Website: https://www.cersd.org/page/special-programs
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES ADMINIS TRATION
100 East Jackson Avenue, Suite 100
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-925-0405
Website: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/dda
DIVISIO N OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
100 East Jackson Avenue, Suite 100
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-925-0408
Website: https://www.dshs.wa.gov/dvr
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EASTON SCHOOL DIST RICT SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
1893 Railroad Street/PO Box 8
Easton, WA 98925
Phone: 509-656-2317
Website: http://www.easton.wednet.edu
ELLENSBURG SCHOOL DISTRICT SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
1300 East 3rd Avenue
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-925-8117
Website: https://www.esd401.org/students-families/student-services/special-services
ELMVIEW
204 East 6th Avenue
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-925-6688
Website: https://www.elmview.org
ENTRUST COMMUNITY SERVICES
415 East Mt. View Avenue, Suite 301
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-925-6688
Website: https://www.elmview.org
HOPESOURCE -ELLENSBURG
700 E Mountain View, Suite 501
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-925-1448
Website: http://www.hopesource.us
HOPESOURCE -CLE ELUM
110 Pennsylvania Ave
Cle Elum, WA 98922
Phone: 509-674-2375
Website: http://www.hopesource.us
KITTITAS COUNTY DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES PROGRAM
Kittitas County Public Health Department
507 N. Nanum St. Suite 102
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-933-8233
Website: https://www.co.kittitas.wa.us/health/community/developmental-disabilities.aspx
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KITTITAS SCHOOL DISTR ICT SPECIAL EDUCATION SERVICES
7571 Kittitas Hwy
Kittitas, WA 98934
Phone 855-380-8843
Website: https://www.ksd403.org/page/special -education
PARENT TO PARENT AND PARENT COALITION
Kittitas Valley Opportunities
Phone: 509-929-7277
Website: https://kc-p2p.wixsite.com/home
SEEDLINGS CENTERS FOR EARLY LEARNING
220 East Helena Avenue
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-872-5132
Website: https://www.epicnet.org/
SOCIAL SECURITY ADMINISTRATION
801 Fruitvale Blvd.
Yakima, WA 98902
Phone: 800-772-1213
Website: https://www.ssa.gov/
SPIRIT THERAPEUTIC RIDING CENTER
1051 Sorenson Road
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-929-1401
Website: http://www.spirittrc.com/
TRELLIS CENTER
170 Bare Rd
Ellensburg, WA 98926
Phone: 509-968-4040
Website: http://www.thetrelliscenter.com/