| | Cloudy Crystal Balls By Pamela Norr, Chief Executive Officer As much as I wish my crystal ball would work and show me what the future holds, experience reminds me that no such thing exists. What does guide me is the powerful impact the collective voice of our community can have. |
|  | Right now, advocacy is one of the most important actions we can take to ensure people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) are seen, heard, and supported. When we speak up together, we shape policies, strengthen services, and build a more inclusive Spokane and Washington State To understand how your voice can be better heard or matter, please contact The Arc’s advocacy team at advocacy@arc-spokane.org and invite your friends and family to sign up for our Community Connection newsletter here. Thank you for standing with us and for continuing to champion the rights and opportunities every person deserves. |
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| | Check Out This Month's Featured Stories Stay up-to-date with the latest advocacy, events, and general news from
The Arc of Spokane. Click here to read the full stories! |
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|  | Guide to WA Legislation Advocate Taylor Crisp shares the power of standing on the capitol steps for the Community Living Rally. Learn how the current WA State short legislative session impacts essential IDD services and how you can use your lived experience to strengthen our community. |
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 | Inclusive Fire Safety Spokane Fire Department Station 1 recently visited The Arc of Spokane to lead an inclusive fire safety training session for the Community Center. Learn how direct engagement with first responders builds a more inclusive and prepared community. |
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|  | Advocacy Days: Mid Session Update On January 12, the Washington State House of Representatives will be considering HB 1795, a bill addressing the restraint or isolation of students in public schools. Dana Fletcher spoke with SPS Superintendent Dr. Adam Swinyard about the district's policy on restraint and isolation. |
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 | Navigating the Future Transition and Young Adult Programs help individuals with IDD ages 14–30 navigate the move to adulthood. From paid internships with the RISE program to Adulting 101 life skills and inclusive socials, learn about the tools The Arc of Spokane provides for independence and self-advocacy. |
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| | Workshops, Events, & More Explore what’s happening this month! From advocacy workshops and educational sessions to support groups and inclusive community gatherings, there’s something for everyone. Stay connected, get involved, and find the support you need. Click here to view all upcoming events. |
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| Helping Parents Training Become a mentor and offer encouragement, guidance, and real-life insight to other parents and caregivers of individuals with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD). 📅 Date: Wednesday, March 11 & 18
⏰ Time: 1:00 pm - 2:30 pm
📍 Location: Virtual & Washington State Capitol Building
💸 Cost: Free |
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| Life After High School Join us for a 3-day workshop at The Arc of Spokane to help prepare students with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) and their families or caregivers for what comes next after graduation. 📅 Date: Wednesday, March 11, 18, & 25
⏰ Time: 5:30 pm - 7:30 pm
📍 Location: The Arc of Spokane
💸 Cost: $20 |
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| Protect Our Access to Housing! Make your voice heard during our Virtual Advocacy Day on February 11 at 10:00 a.m. This session focuses on protecting access to safe, affordable, and inclusive housing for the intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) community. 📅 Date: February 11, 2026
⏰ Time: 10 am
📍 Location: Virtual
💸 Cost: Free |
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| Neurodiversity Night at The Chiefs Join us for a sensory-friendly night at the arena as the Spokane Chiefs host Neurodiversity Night. This event features adjusted lighting and lower volume levels to create a comfortable environment for fans with sensory sensitivities. 📅 Date: Tuesday, February 10
⏰ Time: Doors Open at 6:00 pm
📍 Location: Spokane Arena, 720 W Mallon Ave
💸 Cost: $13 |
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| IDD Talk & Play Every Other Friday, join a welcoming space for parents, caregivers, and families of children with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) under the age of 12, where they can connect and build community. 📅 Date: February 13 & 27 (Every other Wednesday)
⏰ Time: 10:15 am - 11:15 am
📍 Location: 4211 East Colbert RoadColbert, WA, 99005
💸 Cost: Free |
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| IDD Parent & Caregiver Support Group Join us for a free, bi-weekly gathering designed for parents, guardians, and family members. This judgment-free space allows you to share practical ideas, talk openly about shared experiences, and build a reliable network of support. 📆 Date: February 2 & March 2 (Every other Monday)
⏰ Time: 5:30 PM – 6:30 PM
📍 Location: 2323 N. Discovery Pl., Spokane Valley, WA 99216
💸 Cost: Free |
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| | February's Activities At The Arc Activities at The Arc provides a dedicated social space where people with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) connect through shared interests. These sessions offer a clear way to build friendships and practice independence through structured group activities like art, baking, and community outings. Every session is designed to be affordable and easy to join with a flat $10 private-pay fee. |
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| Sage's Portal Outing Connect with fellow gamers at Sage’s Portal on January 13 for Pokémon and tabletop board games. Enjoy a welcoming, social environment perfect for strategy and fun. 📆 Date: Monday, February 2, 2026
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Drop off at The Community Center
💸 Cost: $10 |
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| Spark Central Outing Join us for an afternoon of crafting and board games at Spark Central. This community outing provides a space for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to practice new creative skills and connect with friends. 📆 Date: Monday, February 9, 2026
⏰ Time: 3:00 PM – 5:00 PM
📍 Location: Drop off at the Community Center
💸 Cost: Private pay only |
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| Dave & Buster's Outing Enjoy a fun afternoon of arcade games and social connection at Dave & Buster's. This outing provides a supported way for people with intellectual or developmental disabilities (IDD) to explore Spokane, hang out with peers, and share a high-energy experience in a welcoming group setting. 📅 Date: Monday, February 23
⏰ Time: 2:30 pm – 5:00 pm
📍 Location: Community Center (Drop-off/Pick-up)
💸 Cost: $10 (we suggest bringing $25 for games or snacks) |
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| | | | Parents may have questions and concerns as they learn about services that can help their child and family and often need time and support to navigate their own emotions and adjust to raising a child with special needs. Personal support from fellow parent can help with: - Emotional support for parents
- Information and referrals to community resources
- Connecting you to Trained Helping Parents
- Social and recreational events
- Current information on disabilities, medical conditions and community resources
- Training for parents who would like to become Volunteer Helping Parents
- Public awareness and outreach to the community regarding individuals with disabilities
Learn more about Parent to Parent resources here. |
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| | The Arc of Spokane
320 E. 2nd Ave. | Spokane, Washington 99202
(509) 328-6326 | info@arc-spokane.org |
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