Self-Advocate Application for Advocacy Days

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Advocacy Day in Olympia Application

2027 Advocacy Day
Date: January 2027 (exact date TBD)
Olympia, WA

To apply for consideration of The Arc of Spokane's hosted trip to Advocacy Days in Olympia, Wash., please fill out the application below.

The Arc of Spokane, in partnership with Spokane County, will be leading a group of self-advocates to Olympia, Wash. in early 2026 to participate in the 2027 Washington State legislative session.

The Arc is seeking a group of self-advocates from Spokane and surrounding communities who are interested in sharing their perspectives and helping elected officials better understand the experiences of people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD). During the trip, participants will attend The Arc of Washington’s Advocacy Day events, join a rally at the State Capitol, and meet with Washington State Senators and Representatives to discuss issues that matter to them and the IDD community.

This unique opportunity for a small group with IDD will include transportation, lodging for one night, and meal expenses. Participants will also take part in two pre-trip educational sessions and one post-trip follow-up session designed to build advocacy skills and help participants prepare for the experience.

Whether you are new to advocacy or already have experience speaking up for yourself and others, we encourage you to apply!

Questions? Contact The Arc of Spokane at [email protected] or by calling 509-789-8797.

The application deadline is Friday, August 7, 2026.

First Name

Last Name

Age*

Email Address*

Phone*

Are you currently a client of The Arc of Spokane or received services from The Arc of Spokane within the past year?*

Why are you interested in attending Advocacy Day in Olympia?*

How confident are you when talking to an elected official about an issue that matters to you?*

Have you participated in advocacy activities before?*

How familiar are you with government and public policy?*

What issue is most important to you? (primary)*

If other, please explain.

What issue is most important to you? (secondary)*

If other, please explain.

What supports or accommodations would help you participate successfully in this experience?*

Please list any accessibility supports, accommodations, service devices, or assistance you use that we should be aware of:*

Would you need a support person or caregiver to participate?*

Yes No

If yes, would your support person attend with you?

Yes No

Are you comfortable participating in an overnight trip to Olympia?*

Yes No

If selected, are you willing to participate in pre-trip training activities and post-trip follow up activities?*

Yes No

We hope to create a diverse group of self-advocates with different experiences and perspectives. Is there anything about your lived experience that you would like us to consider when selecting participants? (optional)

Applicant's Signature*

Parent/Guardian's Signature (if applicable)

Applicant's Signature Date*

Parent/Guardian's Signature Date

APPLY