Advocacy and Governmental Affairs

A primary role of The Arc of Kitsap and Jefferson Counties is to serve as an advocate for improved quality of life for all individuals with developmental disabilities.

The Arc communicates with local, state, and national lawmakers so they can make informed decisions regarding the well being of Washington’s citizens with developmental disabilities. The Arc works diligently to preserve basic human rights and to assure that necessary programs and services are available.

Through individual, group, and systems advocacy, The Arc promotes opportunities for living, learning, playing and working in the community.

Keeping Informed
Read the latest National ARC governmental affairs information and Washington State governmental affairs information to stay informed on issues of concern. See the Arc website for information.

The ARC of Washington
The ARC of the United States

WA Advocacy Day Schedule 2007

Contacting Your Legislators

When and why you should contact a legislator or local official...
It's a good idea to know who to contact and how to contact your legislator or local officials. Click on the links below and you'll be presented with a list of all your state legislators in Kitsap and Jefferson Counties.

Budget issues affecting services for the developmentally disabled require our constant attention, and your help and support. Your voice matters!

As a member of The Arc of Kitsap and Jefferson Counties, we'll endeavor to keep you abreast of these issues as they arise. However, the issues won't go away just because we keep you informed. You need to join with us in keeping close contacts with those that have influence over the outcome of these issues.

State Government

Governor’s Office
http://www.governor.wa.gov/

23rd Legislative District
http://wsl.leg.wa.gov/common/maps/23dist.htm
Represents Kitsap County, including Bainbridge Island, Silverdale, Poulsbo, Kingston, and parts of Bremerton.

24th Legislative District
http://wsl.leg.wa.gov/common/maps/24dist.htm
Represents Clallam, Jefferson, and part of Grays Harbor Counties.

26th Legislative District
http://wsl.leg.wa.gov/common/maps/26dist.htm
Represents parts of Pierce and Kitsap Counties.
Major Cities: Port Orchard, Gig Harbor, Key Peninsula, parts of Tacoma and Bremerton

35th Legislative District
http://wsl.leg.wa.gov/common/maps/35dist.htm
Represents Mason and portions of Grays Harbor, Kitsap, and Thurston Counties

National Government

US Senators
http://murray.senate.gov/
http://cantwell.senate.gov/
United States Senate Home Page

US Representatives
http://www.house.gov/inslee/
http://www.house.gov/dicks/
United States House of Representatives Home Page

Office of the President
Whitehouse.gov

Support Advocacy
The rights of citizens with mental retardation are the same as everyone else's. But they are often unable to articulate their needs or insist that their rights be protected. Arc staff and volunteers make special efforts in advocacy situations. The Arc communicates with state and federal legislators regarding budgets, national issues, and legislation related to improving the lives of people with developmental disabilities.

For additional information on advocacy and governmental relations, contact:

The Executive Director of The ARC of Kitsap and Jefferson Counties at phone (360) 377-3473 or email at: nina@arckj.org