Community partners participate in Yakima Valley event
About a dozen organizations and programs participated in the Yakima Valley School’s Community Resource Event on April 10, including supported employment programs, state operated community residential programs, advocacy groups and other resources that are designed for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities.
“It’s really exciting to hear people talk about what can be happening,” said Becky Scholl, who is with the Friends of Yakima School.
Her daughter Shannon, who proudly wore a medal from the Special Olympics booth at the event, is one of certified living facility’s 54 residents. Scholl said she enjoyed learning about options that are in the community to enhance her daughter’s experiences.
In her role with Friends of Yakima School, Scholl was also able to talk to people who are interested in using the facility for respite or nursing care.
“This has been a wonderful place for us,” she said.
The event was sponsored by the Department of Social and Health Services’ Developmental Disabilities Administration. It included participation from the Developmental Disabilities Ombuds, Yakima County Human Services, Community Living Services, various DDA programs and others.
Yakima Valley School superintendent Tammy Winegar described it as successful and energetic. She said it was popular with Yakima Valley families and staff members alike.
“We hope to make this an annual event,” she added.