Below is information on a great opportunity to make your voice heard on local services for children with special health care needs and/or disabilities.

Also, don't forget that March is Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Please contact Amy at The Arc: amym@arcwhatcom.org, 360-715-0170, ext. 309 if interested in hosting an awareness event at your school or business.

If you have questions or need assistance, please contact Monica: 360-715-0170, ext. 303 or monicab@arcwhatcom.org.

Sincerely,
The Arc of Whatcom Team

IMPORTANT FOCUS GROUP ON

WHATCOM COUNTY SERVICES

Does your child have special health care needs?

We need YOUR help!

PARENT AND CHILD FUN FOCUS GROUP

Saturday, March 8, 2014

The Arc's Dan Godwin Community Center

2602 McLeod Road, Bellingham

The focus group's goal is to find out from the experts, YOU, how healthcare and support services are working and how they can be improved.

Fun and interactive activities
Refreshments
Connect with other parents
Find out about services
Sign Up NOW...slots are filling fast!

Parents get a $25 Fred Meyer Gift Card for participating.

RSVP: ParTakingAction@gmail.com or 715-0170 ext.303

by Friday, March 7.

For more information, click here for the Focus Group Flyer.

SOCIAL SECURITY WORKSHOP

Monday, March 10

5:30pm - 7:30pm

St Lukes Health Education Center

3333 Squalicum Parkway

Presented by the Whatcom County Health Department, this free workshop is designed for families and caregivers of individuals with developmental disabilities.

Topics to include benefits and why you should apply, basic differences between disability benefits, how employment can work with benefits, work incentives and other resources, common pitfalls, reporting and other requirements.

About the presenter: Susan Harrell is with the Washington Initiative for Supported Employment (W.I.S.E.) and has worked with and on behalf of people with disabilities since 1985. Susan specializes in Social Security and Medical Benefits; Work Incentives; Individual Resource Development; Person-Centered Planning; and Policies and Regulations Related to the Self-Sufficiency of Individuals with Disabilities.

RSVP is requested. Please contact Vicki: vmcclure@co.whatcom.wa.us or (360) 676-6724 ext. 32014.

PLEASE NOTE: The information contained in this email is for informational purposes only and should be evaluated by each recipient for content accuracy and applicability. Some articles are provided only to educate about a variety of perspectives on issues. It is not intended to represent the viewpoint of The Arc of Whatcom County.