Breaking Barriers: The Intersection of Coaching, Accessibility, and Assistive Technology, Part 1

Breaking Barriers: The Intersection of Coaching, Accessibility, and Assistive Technology, Part 1

In our rapidly evolving world, the importance of accessibility cannot be overstated. Join us for an empowering two-part series where attendees will learn valuable insights and practical approaches to fostering accessibility and promoting a culture of inclusion. Using real-world examples, we will explore how coaching techniques can identify barriers and challenges to create actionable strategies for implementing accessible practices. Participants will have the opportunity to exchange insights, share experiences, and develop collaborative solutions. By the end of the series, attendees will emerge equipped with valuable knowledge and tangible strategies to advocate for accessibility.

Presenter: Kelly Kuehl, M.A., SLP-L, CPACC

Image: Smiling woman with long brown hair, dressed in a black top against a white background.

Kelly Kuehl, MA, SLP-L, CPACC brings over 18 years of dedicated experience supporting and advocating for inclusion. As a licensed Speech-Language Pathologist (SLP-L) and Certified Professional in Accessibility Core Competencies (CPACC), Kelly is committed to developing a deeper understanding of the multifaceted needs of individuals with diverse abilities.

Throughout her career, Kelly has championed an inclusive approach that bridges support systems including across home, school, vocational settings, and community involvement. She recognizes the importance of individualized support tailored to the unique motivations and aspirations of each person, fostering environments where individuals can thrive and reach their full potential.

Kelly’s passion for making a positive difference in the lives of others is evident in her compassionate approach and dedication to inclusion. Serving as board president of the Northwest Augmentative Communication Society (NWACS) and as a Foundation Trustee at Joya Child and Family Development Center, Kelly is actively involved in community advocacy efforts aimed at removing barriers for individuals with disabilities.

Kelly works at Providence St. Luke’s Medical Center in Spokane, WA. As Manager of Rehabilitation Services, she leads a dedicated team in providing comprehensive rehabilitation services to patients in an outpatient setting. In her free time, Kelly enjoys exploring the great outdoors, Oula dance fitness, and playing with her nephews. She is a dog mom and plant lover.

Project S.A.F.E.R. (Special Assistance for Emergency Response)

Project S.A.F.E.R. (Special Assistance for Emergency Response)

Join us to learn more about Clallam County and their creation of Project S.A.F.E.R. (Special Assistance for Emergency Response).  A community came together to strengthen encounters between community members with disabilities and people with access and functional needs, members of the police, fire, and emergency personnel.  Individuals, families, care providers, and community partners worked together to create inclusive and safer emergency encounters.  The committee created an informational event at their County Fair in 2023, along with new practices and tools.  Representatives from the committee will share their personal contributions and impact on Clallam County and making it SAFER for all.

Presenters:

Teresa Barrett and Nicholas Barrett

Panelists: Kelley Lawrence, Carina Robinson, Brian King, Monica Zumach and Pamela Hicks

Teresa Barrett

Terry Barrett has worked in education and caregiving with people who experience developmental disability. She is a parent and grandparent and values the health and well-being of families. As mom to Nicholas Barrett, Terry has had wonderful opportunities to learn and grow in awareness and understanding. 

Terry has lived on the Olympic Peninsula since 2013 with Nicholas. She completed a master’s in divinity and will complete a degree next year toward her goal as a New Thought minister. She is dedicated to inspiring a more peaceful way of living together.

Nicholas Barrett

Nicholas Barrett joined the wrestling team when he moved to Sequim in 2013. He loves to sing, learned to cook, and works at a company in Sequim that makes titanium bolts for the space program. He loves video games and planning for holidays. He’ll tell you what the weather is doing any day you ask. Nicholas advocates for himself and the life he wants and he brings out the best in others. 

Job Development – Are You Doing It Wrong?

Job Development – Are You Doing It Wrong?

Have you ever struggled to find the perfect job placement? Or, have you thought you found the perfect placement just for it all to fall apart? Join Jeff Akin, an employer and organizational leadership expert, as he describes the nuances of understanding employer’s needs and helping to ensure the work culture is supportive of the people working there. Don’t just find a job placement, use these tools to find a place where people can thrive.

Presenter: Jeff Akin

Image: Headshot of Jeff Akin, a white man with dark hair, receding hairline, salt and pepper beard wearing a blue and pink plaid shirt and smiling.

Jeff Akin is a 20-year veteran of both the public and private sectors. He has extensive experience in both media and entertainment, as well as over two decades in management and leadership. Jeff specializes in listening to others, helping them unleash their true potential, and giving feedback that is authentic yet kind.
Jeff began employing people with intellectual and developmental disabilities in 2018. Since then, he has been recognized for his success in creating work cultures that encourage and allow everyone to succeed and thrive.
This pro wrestling TV broadcaster turned executive leader and award-winning podcaster is never afraid to get his hands dirty when it comes to improving lives!

Learn From MY Story: Encouraging Self Advocacy, Advocacy, and Interdependence

Learn From MY Story: Encouraging Self Advocacy, Advocacy, and Interdependence

Jeff Grace has worked at the Washington State DDA for almost 40 years in a variety of roles.  In the past five years, he has finally gotten a chance to tell his story of a man who both experiences a disability and supports others through his job. He has worked with Chuck Goodwin to help others with Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities share their stories.  In this webinar, Jeff and Chuck will share what they have learned from individuals on promoting self advocacy & advocacy, the give and take of relationships, the importance of making contributions, Independence, and most importantly interdependence in achieving their dreams.

Presenters: Jeff Grace & Chuck Goodwin

Image: Jeff Grace, a white man with dark-rimmed glasses and gray hair wearing a light blue vest over a dark shirt, smiles.
Image: Chuck Goodwin, a white man with dark brown curly hair and beard, wearing a red Polo shirt, smiling and slightly squinting in the sun.