March 6: Building a day in the life
March 20: Mapping your Community

Join together with others in these workshops designed to increase the ability of parents, caregivers and individuals with developmental disabilities to build on existing community resources and build a meaningful life.

Time: 8:30-9:00 registration and coffee
9:00-11:00 Workshop
Location: 1000 North Forest Street Whatcom County Annex Building

For more information or to register please contact Vicki McClure at (360) 676-6724 ext. 32243 vmcclure@whatcomcounty.us

Washington State Legislators continue to work towards agreement on a new budget.

The Senate has released its budget for proposal. There are some proposals included to eliminate or reduce services for individuals with developmental disabilities. Individuals can contact members of the Senate Ways and Means Committee to let them know how services impact their lives. The committee meets Friday, February 26th at 1:30 to finalize their budget.

To locate and contact your elected officials, read ADVOCATE below.

The Developmental Disabilities Life Opportunities Trust is holding an informational session in Mount Vernon on March 10.

This is a great opportunity to learn more about the Trust and get answers to any questions you might have.
The Life Opportunities Trust is a program created by the Washington State Legislature to help families and individuals set aside fund without putting benefits at risk. An informational meeting will be held on March 10, 2010 at the Cotton Tree Convention Center, Mt Vernon from 7:30 to 9:00 pm.

Current Trust holders are welcome to a Trust Holder meeting from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. To RSVP for the Trust Holder meetings or for more information, please contact Autumn Dryden by phone at 360.586.3563 or 800.634.4473 or by email to autumn.dryden@commerce.wa.gov.

Elder Services Providers 15th Annual Caregiver Conference

This event on Friday, March 12, is designed for professional and family caregivers.
This years conference will give tips and tools for preserving caregivers physical and mental health, for accessing community services and to meet other caregivers for socialization and mutual support.

The event is designed for anyone working with seniors or individuals with disabilities.
For more information about the conference, call 360- 715-6563

To find your senators' and representative's phone numbers, you may use a searchable online directory or call TOLL-FREE: 1-800-562-6000 & ask for your senators' and/or representative's phone number.

Remember that telephone calls are usually taken by a staff member, not the legislator. Ask to speak with the aide who handles the issue about which you wish to comment.