Breaking down barriers and building connections: Experience the power of community
t The Arc of Grays Harbor, we strongly believe in the value of inclusion within our community. We offer Community Engagement and Community Respite services to clients with developmental disabilities who have an appropriate waiver from the Developmental Disabilities Administration.
Community Engagement
Our Community Engagement program is designed to help individuals achieve their personal goals by encouraging self-determination and self-direction, increasing their ability to be involved and included in their community, and helping them develop social networks and connections. We offer a 1:1 provider-to-client ratio, providing tailored services that meet each individual's unique needs and goals. Our program helps increase access to informal community supports, which is essential in promoting inclusion within the community.
Community Respite
Our Community Respite services provide a much-needed break for caregivers of individuals with intellectual/developmental disabilities while also giving clients the opportunity to participate in fun activities with others in a community setting. This service is designed to offer respite in a community setting and is available to those with an approved DDA waiver. We understand the importance of having time to recharge, which is why we offer this service to those in need. To access Community Engagement or Respite services, individuals must reach out to their DDA case manager.
Our Values
At The Arc of Grays Harbor, we understand that every individual has unique needs and goals. That is why we provide tailored resources and services to help our clients achieve their full potential. Our Community Engagement and Community Respite services are just two examples of the many services we offer to support our clients and promote inclusion within our community. We believe that everyone deserves to feel valued and included, and we strive to make that a reality for all those we serve.
Interested in Comunity Engagement or Respite?
To access Community Engagement or Respite services, individuals must reach out to their DDA case manager. If you have questions about our program please call 360-537-7000.
Community Engagement Manager
Amber is the Community Engagement Manager at The Arc of Grays Harbor. She oversees our Community Engagement and Community Respite programs and also works with clients on a 1:1 basis. She is focused on helping clients achieve their goals and engage in the community.
Community Engagement Manager, Pacific County Parent to Parent Coordinator
Amber Cook is the Community Engagement Manager at The Arc, having joined in 2017. With her background in the Human Service field and being a mother of a child with intellectual and developmental disabilities, Amber brings a wealth of relevant experience to her role. Her primary responsibility is ensuring that the Community Engagement Program runs smoothly, supporting clients in achieving their personal goals, and preventing social isolation. Amber’s favorite part of the job is seeing the growth of services in the community and witnessing the progress of clients’ support systems over the years. She is passionate about providing the best support to those in need and making a positive impact in their lives.
Community Engagement Guide
Community Engagement Guide with The Arc of Grays Harbor.
Hispanic/Latino Coordinator, Multicultural Parent to Parent Coordinator
Meet Estela Aguilar, our multicultural Parent Coordinator for Grays Harbor and Pacific Counties, who offers Spanish-language support and resources for families with children with disabilities. Her knowledge of various cultural backgrounds allows her to provide tailored support for diverse families. Estela also provides disability application assistance, Community Engagement Services, and information and referrals in both English and Spanish.
Meet Jo Wilde, a Community Guide at The Arc. Jo joined our team in 2022 and brings with her a wealth of caregiving experience as a certified HCA. She holds a 2-year degree in Human Services and is a Generalist. As a Community Guide, Jo spends her time with our Community Engagement clients, helping them achieve their goals and prevent social isolation. Jo’s favorite part of her job is planning and executing fun activities that bring joy to our clients. She enjoys getting to know the people we serve and helping them live their best lives.
Community Engagement Guide with The Arc of Grays Harbor