Voices for I/DD

PEACE NW believes that strong communities are built when every voice is heard including those of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (I/DD) and their families.

While our organization does not lobby, we are deeply committed to educating, informing, and empowering individuals and families to understand and participate in the public policy process that impacts their lives.

What We Do

Education & Awareness:
We share information about current issues, policies, and legislative proposals that affect individuals with I/DD and their families. Our goal is to help you understand how decisions are made and how those decisions impact disability services and supports.

Connection & Empowerment:
We help families and self-advocates learn how to communicate effectively with elected officials, tell their stories, and participate in public meetings or advocacy events.

Community Engagement:
Each year, we connect families to opportunities such as Advocacy Days, public hearings, and our biannual Candidates Forum — where community members can meet local leaders and learn about their positions on disability-related issues.

Why It Matters

Public policy shapes the systems that provide services, education, employment, and inclusion for people with disabilities. By understanding how these systems work and by participating in the process, families and individuals can help create positive change in their communities.

Get Involved!

Sign up for Updates!

☕ Join the conversation at PEACE NW’s Legislative Coffee Chats – a space to talk about life with disabilities, your experiences, challenges, and hopes for better disability services in our community.”

To find your district visit https://app.leg.wa.gov/districtfinder

17th LD - November 17th, 2025 10:30am

Location: Compass Coffee (1700 Main Street #130 Washougal, WA. 98671)

Sen Harris, Rep Stuebe, Rep Waters

Register Here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/zkuk2q6

18th LD - December 10, 2025 4:30pm

Location: Creed Coffee Co. (10718 NW Lakeshore Ave. Vancouver, WA. 98685)

Sen Cortes, Rep McClintock, Rep Ley

Register Here: https://lp.constantcontactpages.com/ev/reg/qkvk9vm

20th LD - December 16th, 2025 1:00pm

Location: Seasons Coffee (115 Main St Ridgefield, WA. 98642)

Sen Braun, Rep Abbarno, Rep Orcutt