Community Support, Networks, and Information

Stay connected to timely and accurate information about services, events and peer connections in Whatcom County with these programs:

Parent Coalition
The Parent Coalition provides leadership support for a broad-based coalition of individuals with developmental disabilities and their parents/guardians. It enables them to become effective and involved in accessing community services.
More info:  
The Arc of Whatcom County
http://arcwhatcom.org/wp/programs/parent-coalition/  | (360)715-0170

Parent to Parent
Parent to Parent provides emotional support and information to families of children with special needs or disabilities. Program supports include creating parent matches with trained “helping parents”, support meetings, social and networking events, and a quarterly newsletter.

More info:  
The Arc of Whatcom County
http://arcwhatcom.org/wp/parent-to-parent/  | (360)715-0170

Youth Self Advocacy Project
The Youth Self Advocacy Project helps young adults with developmental disabilities identify and communicate their needs and interests and become strong self-advocates. Program support includes monthly meetings, an annual community project, and outreach to school districts and other partners.

More info:  
The Arc of Whatcom County
http://arcwhatcom.org/wp/programs/self-advocacy/  | https://www.facebook.com/WhatcomCountySelfAdvocacy/  | (360)715-0170

Single Entry Access to Services (SEAS)
Single Entry Access to Services (SEAS) is part of Whatcom Taking Action. The SEAS line is an access point for help with resources and service navigation for kids ages birth through 21 who have  or may have special needs. A SEAS Navigator will listen and help families connect with services that best meet their needs.

More info:
Whatcom Taking Action
https://whatcomtakingaction.org/ | (360) 715-7485

Become a Qualified Service Provider
We contract with qualified providers for services using Department of Social & Health Services and Developmental Disabilities Administration funds. To become a qualified provider you must:

• Meet requirements of Provider Qualifications for Employment and Day Program Services outlined in DSHS/DDA Policy 6.13 and Whatcom County guidelines.
• Meet requirements of the Whatcom County Quality Assurance and Evaluation Tool.
• Complete an onsite monitoring visit every 2 years.

To inquire about becoming a qualified provider, contact Jessica Lee, Developmental Disabilities Program Specialist, at jllee@co.whatcom.wa.us or (360) 778-6047.