Image shows a hand under three people. Click to hear our core beliefs.

Our Beliefs

People with all kinds of (dis) ABILITIES have the right to be equal and respected citizens in our communities. We have the right to work, live, have fun, make friends, take risks, and learn to speak up for ourselves. People have the right to make their OWN informed choices.

“Changes I Want to See”

Image shows an X over an institution.

CLOSING INSTITUTIONS

BELIEF STATEMENT:
We believe that no person should be segregated from our communities. We believe that appropriate funding to support enhancing community services must be provided.

That is why we want institutions closed. We object to anyone controlling anyone else’s life. We will pledge our support and help to those people who move out to find friends, supports, and resources in their new homes.

Image shows a megaphone.

SELF-ADVOCACY

BELIEF STATEMENT:
We believe that all people have the right to speak up and speak out for themselves.

That is why we want to speak out for ourselves and be heard in all aspects of our lives. What we say needs to be valued and respected whether we use our voices, assistive technology, sign language, or body movements.

“Respectful Language”


Image shows person with a briefcase walking up stairs.

EMPLOYMENT

BELIEF STATEMENT:
We believe that all people have the right to have a job that provides a living wage, opportunity for advancement, and personal fulfillment.

That is why we want jobs that:

  • complement our abilities;
  • provide equal opportunities for competitive wages, benefits and retirement;
  • incorporate choice and change;
  • focus on career advancement;
  • and increase quality of life.
Image shows person considering their own choices.

BELIEF STATEMENT:
We believe that all people have the right to make the decisions that affect and direct their lives.

To support us leading the process, we need equal access to information, resources, facts and supports. The significant people in our lives, such as family, guardians, case managers, co-workers, friends, bosses, and personal support staff should assist us in a self-directed process to form these decisions.

DDA client rights were established in 2020. You can OPEN A PRINT VERSION HERE, or listen to it here:

Videos on DDA Client Rights

Overview

Personal Power

Making Choices

Planning

Discharge and Termination of Services

Information, Grievances and Appeals

Image shows people standing together.

BELIEF STATEMENT:
We believe it is our human right to be included equally in our community without limitations.

  • Inclusion means that everyone is valued, respected, and included in their communities in ways that are meaningful to them.
  • Inclusion is more than access to buildings and bathrooms and buses.
  • Real inclusion means that people with disabilities have equal access to information and support to understand and use it in their own lives. We each have an important role to play to make inclusion a priority and a reality in our community.

Image shows person in wheelchair boarding a bus.

BELIEF STATEMENT:
We believe that all people have the right to get where they need or want to go.

We deserve equal opportunities to utilize public transportation for work, medical needs, education, recreation, family and community activities. Transportation helps to make and keep us independent.

We are stronger together.

Visit the websites of our other disability-led partners by clicking on the logos below:

Link to The Washington Law Help dot org website. Link to The Informing Families dot org website.


People First of Washington
P.O. Box 11953
Olympia, WA 98508

253-999-7222
krista@pfow.org

People First of Washington logo. Click to go to the home page.

Privacy   --   Legal

Financials

Access the People First Zoom Room here:

people first zoom room logo and link.

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