The Pierce County Developmental Disabilities Board assists and advises Pierce County Human Services on services to individuals with developmental disabilities, the development of the Five-Year Plan, agency operations conducted under the Plan, including the selection of the Developmental Disabilities Coordinator, evaluation of ongoing programs, and the selection of contractors.

Board members have a responsibility to receive and provide information related to Board activities involving stakeholders, such as parents, individuals with disabilities, agency staff, and other interested community members.

The Board serves as an advocacy body to promote the interest of persons with developmental disabilities residing in Pierce County.

The Board agenda and minutes are updated regularly.

It is the mission of the Pierce County Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board to influence the quality of supports to individuals with developmental disabilities to respect personal choice and diversity, ensure fundamental human rights and optimize individual strengths.

We envision a future where individuals with developmental disabilities have:

• power and choice in making decisions and directing their lives;
• relationships with people whom they love and care about and who love and care about them;
• recognition for what they can contribute to our community;
• active involvement in the communities where they live;
• opportunities to use all of their strengths and support for their areas of need; and
• opportunities to live healthy, safe, and enjoyable lives.

• holistic approaches to supports and services is vital;
• ideas, priorities, and solutions must be developed at the community level;
• services must be responsive, flexible, and tailored to meet changing needs throughout an individuals life;
• services must be barrier-free and accessible;
• every person in the community can make a contribution;
• every person must be treated with respect, compassion, and dignity;
• diversity enriches our community, and we must build upon this strength;
• each person's unique cultural, spiritual, and developmental needs must be respected;
• responsibility is shared in partnership with the community;
• an attitude of cooperation and collaboration must be demonstrated;
• services must be efficiently operated and proven effective for those served; and
• we are advocates for needed change.

Nominations for membership to the Board are solicited from throughout Pierce County to reflect the diversity of the community and various stakeholders. Examples include all geographic areas, minority populations, individuals with disabilities and their families, employers, and school districts. Nominations for appointment to the Board are forwarded to the Pierce County Executive for selection and appointment, subject to approval by the Pierce County Council. Membership on the Board shall be open to individuals residing within Pierce County.

Membership is not open to individuals who are employees of DSHS Division of Developmental Disabilities, agencies which provide case management services for clients served by County-funded programs, Developmental Disabilities Planning Council, or Pierce County Human Services. Membership is not open to individuals or members of their immediate families who are employed by agencies or organizations receiving financial assistance through the Pierce County Developmental Disabilities Program.

The Board shall consist of a maximum of 15 members, appointed by the Pierce County Executive and approved by the Pierce County Council. In the event membership falls to nine (9) members, nominations will be sought to increase the membership to the maximum level.

Board members shall be appointed for a term of three (3) years provided that no member shall be appointed to serve for more than two (2) consecutive three (3) year terms.

To apply for the Developmental Disabilities Advisory Board, please fill out the application form and mail to Developmental Disabilities, Pierce County Human Services, 3580 Pacific Avenue, Tacoma, WA 98418.

When vacancies on the board arise, applications will be considered.