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WSCAP Newsletter December 17, 2024
📣The WSCAP Newsletter will be on hiatus through Tuesday, January 7, 2025📣
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🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀WSCAP WILL BE CLOSED FROM MONDAY, DECEMBER 23 THROUGH WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 1, 2025.
HAVE A HAPPY HOLIDAY!
🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀🎀
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Meghan Altimore Appointed Hopelink <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=2c1e7914ae&e=290850492e> CEO
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Hopelink <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=28b3a3ed26&e=290850492e> is proud to announce the appointment of Meghan Altimore as our
Chief Executive Officer.
The decision was made by Hopelink’s Board of Directors following a search led by a CEO Selection Committee. The Selection Committee included current and former Board members as well
as a staff advisor.
Meghan, was appointed Interim CEO in September after the passing of Hopelink CEO Geoff Crump.
Meghan brings over 20 years of leadership experience with Hopelink, playing a critical role driving the agency’s growth while ensuring its services’ quality. She’s credited with establishing
several of Hopelink’s services that north and east King County residents depend upon today, as well as leading the development of Hopelink’s Shoreline and Redmond Centers, standardizing
data stewardship practices, and spearheading the integration of trauma-informed practices across the organization.
“Meghan’s 20-year tenure with Hopelink shows a proven leader for profound changes, allowing Hopelink to grow and improve in powerful ways, developing operational and strategic expertise
with her deep commitment for community service to help Hopelink and partners increase resources for people experiencing poverty,” said Byron Shutz, Chair of Hopelink’s Board of Directors.
“While that impact is visible externally, those who have had the privilege to work alongside Meghan also recognize her thorough understanding of the ecosystem that Hopelink serves,
the use of data to drive decisions while always keeping Hopelink values and mission at the forefront, and advocating for systemic changes and partnerships to support our organization
and the community to help people exit poverty.”
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📣OCS Announces Second Cohort of Affordable Housing and Supportive Services Demonstration (AHSSD) Grant Recipients📣
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The Office of Community Services has announced a second cohort of Affordable Housing and Supportive Services Demonstration (AHSSD) grant recipients. This program addresses the dynamic
and multifaceted nature of poverty, homelessness, and housing instability by providing individuals and families with low incomes access to supportive services in affordable housing.
Please join us in congratulating the Washington Gorge Action Programs <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=62f5de1ab7&e=290850492e>
⭐WSCAP Learning Center now includes CAP Infinity 2.0 and CAP Infinity for Boards 2.0 (Basic and Intermediate)⭐
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Why there’s an ‘outrageous’ lack of drug detox beds for WA youths
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A common area at Tacoma Detoxification Center, which is run by the Metropolitan Development Council <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=1c65f5db33&e=
290850492e> . (Timm Dowling
The Mental Health Project is a Seattle Times initiative focused on covering mental and behavioral health issues. It is funded by Ballmer Group, a national organization focused on economic
mobility for children and families. Additional support is provided by City University of Seattle. The Seattle Times maintains editorial control over work produced by this team.
When Seattle parent Michelle discovered her teenage son was using fentanyl, she repeatedly hit the same roadblock: Treatment facilities wouldn’t admit him until he was sober.
But there was nowhere she could take him to help him through the agonizing process of detoxing — a five- to seven-day exercise of willpower that can set off bouts of vomiting, diarrhea
and insomnia and is safest and most comfortable when monitored by medical professionals.
She made the only move she could think of and drove her son 80 miles east to Cle Elum, a tiny town where she’d rented an Airbnb. There, away from dealers — and without medical supervision
— her 17-year-old descended into the throes of withdrawal.
Physically withdrawing from drugs is a critical and potentially dangerous moment in addiction recovery. But across Washington, only two detox beds are reserved for youths, The Seattle
Times has found.
“The only two youth beds are at Tacoma Detoxification Center, a 32-bed adult-focused detox center run by the Metropolitan Development Council in Tacoma. Although a handful of other detoxification
options are available — one residential program offers detox to youths admitted to long-term care, for instance — no other facilities set aside on-demand detox beds to ensure youths
always have a place to go.”
Continue reading…. <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=49cde15ff4&e=290850492e>
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FREE ONLINE THERAPY FOR SEATTLE TEENS, YOUNG ADULTS
Everyone needs someone to talk to now and again, but it can be difficult to navigate insurance and find the right mental health professional for you. Fortunately, Seattle residents ages
13 to 24 can now get online therapy and behavioral health support for absolutely FREE.
Seattle residents ages 13 to 24 can get FREE online therapy and virtual support from Talkspace <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=0738539775&e=2908
50492e> . Young people who sign up will get matched with a dedicated, Washington state-licensed provider and receive care through unlimited, asynchronous messaging therapy, as well as
one live video session per month. They will also get 24/7 access to Talkspace Go <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=e45035f6a5&e=290850492e>
, a self-guided mental health program for additional resources tailored to issues facing teens and young adults.
TO SIGN UP: Go to Talkspace Seattle <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=a10dd0cdaf&e=290850492e> .
MORE INFO: Read Seattle Expands Youth Mental Health Supports with Launch of Talkspace Virtual Therapy <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=3d7eedfe0b&
e=290850492e> .
FEDERAL STUDENT AID APPLICATIONS NOW ACCEPTED
WHEN: Applications due June 30, 2025.
WHAT: The Free Application for Federal Student Aid <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8bc52bffd3&e=290850492e> (FAFSA) is now open
for all students and families applying for the 2025–2026 school year. While the final FAFSA deadline isn’t until June 30, 2025, students should apply as early as possible because some
kinds of financial support are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis. Completing the FAFSA takes about an hour.
MORE INFO: Go to Filling Out the FAFSA Form <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=2e2c8e8c59&e=290850492e> or check out resources available
through the Washington Student Achievement Council <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8f81c548ad&e=290850492e> .
DISCOUNTED VANPOOL FARES
WHEN: Sign up before December 31, 2024, to receive reduced fare for a full year.
WHAT: Workers in King County who make $25/hr or less can now qualify for a reduced King County Metro Vanpool <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=9eb7
f51437&e=290850492e> fare of just $49/month. Vanpool members get use of a King County Metro vehicle and share driving responsibilities and coordinate routes, work hours and pick-up
locations for their commutes. Everything you need is included in your monthly fare, including insurance, fuel and tolls, maintenance, roadside assistance, and emergency rides home.
MORE INFO: Go to $49 Vanpool fare <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=bca5a7912e&e=290850492e> .
TO APPLY: Go to Take the first step <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=9d7eab608d&e=290850492e> .
Continue reading…. <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=67719122e5&e=290850492e>
Snohomish County awards money to improve warming, cooling centers
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The money for HVAC improvements will allow facilities to better serve as temporary shelters for weather-related events.
Snohomish County <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8bec5d4379&e=290850492e> is investing $1.5 million in federal funds to update
HVAC systems in community libraries and senior centers to support their facilities as warming, cooling or cleaner air centers.
With American Rescue Plan Act money, 22 locations across the county, including Everett Public Libraries, Sno-Isle Libraries, the Lake Ballinger Center and the Monroe Community Senior
Center, will get HVAC system improvements, the county announced Thursday.
“During weather-related events, we definitely see an increase in library use,” Everett Public Library Director Abigail Cooley said. “Having an updated HVAC system to keep our building
cooler in the summer and warmer in the winter will absolutely benefit the community.”
Climate change is fueling more severe weather. Extreme heat is the leading cause of death among all weather-related hazards in the country, according to the U.S. Department of Health
and Human Services.
In 2021, a heat dome claimed 138 lives in Washington, including 15 in Snohomish County. <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=7a57cd4d4e&e=290850492e>
Smoke from wildfires has also become an increasing hazard, and is the largest source of particle pollution in Washington, according to the state Department of Ecology.
HVAC improvements will vary by facility, with some recipients having major system upgrades and others using the financial support to purchase highly efficient air filters for wildfire
season, according to the county.
Most home filters have Minimum Efficiency Reporting Values of 1-4. Medium efficiency filters can have ratings from 5-12. Facilities receiving funding have the opportunity to purchase
high efficiency filters with a rating of 13, which can remove as much as 95% of particles passing through the air filtration system, according to the Environmental Protection Agency.
Updated HVAC systems will also support community members seeking warmth, as many did earlier this week when Everett-area overnight temperatures dropped below 34 degrees. The National
Weather Service predicts warmer temperatures the next few days, with a high of 53 for Everett on Friday. A storm system arriving this weekend could lead to minor flooding <https://wapartnership.us4.
list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=3fd40bbc3c&e=290850492e> in Snohomish, Skagit and Whatcom counties.
The Snohomish County Public Safety Hub <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=a31f511920&e=290850492e> keeps an updated list of warming,
cooling and cleaner air center locations.
“To effectively address emergent needs, we must be proactive in strengthening our community’s resilience,” county Department of Human Services Mary Jane Brell-Vujovic said in a press
release. “This is one important step in making sure all parts of the county are equipped to provide protection for individuals and families during extreme weather and air-quality events.”
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Opportunity Council secures $4M in county contracts to support homeless
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The Whatcom County Council approved roughly $4 million for Opportunity Council <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=20da4122f8&e=290850492e>
contracts for a variety of homelessness services in the community on Tuesday, Dec. 3. This included nearly $649,000 for 22 North, which faced increased public scrutiny earlier this
year after an attempt by council member Ben Elenbaas to defund the low-barrier housing facility <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=3cdcc3cd05&e=290
850492e> .
Elenbaas’s resolution came in the wake of at least eight people dying within the facility since February 2022, and dozens of criminal incidents investigated by police.
While the resolution was deemed unfeasible as written and spiked by the council <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=cce54bcb30&e=290850492e>
on July 30, the county has added a number of amendments to the new contract that are designed to increase reporting, accountability and tenant safety.
Elenbaas said although the resolution didn’t pass, the threat of defunding “got the outcome” that he wanted: better results. Nonetheless, he is not convinced the “Opportunity Council
has a culture of accountability and results with their current leadership.”
“I need to see better from their leadership before I have confidence the organization has made any significant changes for the betterment of our community,” Elenbaas told CDN ahead of
the vote.
Greg Winter, the executive director of the Opportunity Council, told Cascadia Daily News on Wednesday morning that he understands Elenbaas “continues to have concerns” and welcomes “the
opportunity to provide him with more information about the impact our work has on hundreds of lives every day.”
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Pierce County’s plan to tackle homelessness in 2025 includes $30M in spending, plans show
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As a new year approaches, Pierce County’s Human Services Department <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=162e1670a8&e=290850492e> is
planning how to address the homelessness crisis in 2025 with new emphasis on improving existing systems and tackling youth homelessness.
On Dec. 11, Human Services supervisor Devon Isakson gave a presentation to the Pierce County Council’s Select Committee on Homelessness outlining the department’s upcoming efforts to
mitigate homelessness in the region.
Isakson said the department is preparing to contract an estimated $33 million in services during 2025.
She said the total amount is a conservative estimate based on what has currently been budgeted and could be subject to change. She said there is speculation that state funding for the
programs could be reduced in the upcoming legislative session.
According to Human Services, the department is preparing to contract an estimated $3 million to $6 million in eviction-prevention services in 2025. A spokesperson for the department
told The News Tribune that as of Nov. 20 it had distributed $6,691,335 in 2024 to cover debt on rent and utilities.
Human Services has received more than $10.3 million in eviction-prevention assistance requests during 2024.
According to Isakson’s presentation, the county is expecting to contract about $4 million to $6 million to fund the region’s Continuum of Care (CoC). The U.S. Department of Housing and
Urban Development (HUD) awards money to coalitions that coordinate housing and services for homeless families and individuals. Those regional planning bodies are called Continuums of
Care.
There are more than 400 such organizations across the country competitively applying for billions in grant funding.
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Volunteer Spotlight: Christa Hanson
The heart of Byrd Barr Place <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=d63fe25ba4&e=290850492e> is our community. The volunteers who dedicate
their time and talent to supporting our missions are our lifeblood. One such volunteer is Christa Hanson, who volunteers in The Market. Christa sat down with us to share what makes
Byrd Barr Place special to her and her vision for a society that cares and loves like a family.
Tell us a bit about yourself and your background.
Originally, I am from Denmark, but I have been living happily in Seattle for 10 years. I am an educator, although I am now retired, and have time to volunteer in the community I live
in. I am so happy Byrd Barr Place is in my neighborhood and that I can volunteer here.
How long have you volunteered at Byrd Barr Place and what are your primary responsibilities?
I have been volunteering with Byrd Barr Place for about a year and a half, since June 2023, and I volunteer in The Market. Normally, I come in Tuesday mornings and start to get The Market
ready before we open at 11 am. I fill up shelves, organize produce, and welcome our guests, inviting them in to shop at our wonderful market.
Continue reading….. <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=1654afe0be&e=290850492e>
Hunger on edge
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Food bank visits in Western Washington jumped 25% this year, officials say, driven by stagnant wages, rising costs, and more families living on the financial edge <https://wapartnership.us4.list-mana
ge.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=0f33eba683&e=290850492e> .
Why it matters: The surge in food bank visits across Western Washington is part of a larger national trend <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=baff58
6f5d&e=290850492e> , highlighting the precarious financial footing of millions of Americans.
The big picture: Hunger relief organizations anticipated a surge in need during the pandemic but have been surprised to see it continue rising, said Food Lifeline <https://wapartnership.us4.list-mana
ge.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=3446d4769e&e=290850492e> spokesperson Mark Coleman.
By the numbers: Visits to more than 500 food banks and meal programs across 17 Western Washington counties climbed from 8 million in 2023 to 10 million this year, Food Lifeline spokesperson
Mark Coleman told Axios.
* Before the pandemic, Food Lifeline served about 800,000 people annually.
* During the pandemic, that number rose to 1.1 million and has continued increasing, reaching 1.5 million in 2023 and 1.7 million in 2024, Coleman said.
Zoom in: Since 2021, food costs in Western Washington have risen by 20%, making Seattle's food expenses the fourth highest in the nation, according to Food Lifeline.
* That, combined with a rising cost of living and stagnant wage growth <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=6cbd955b95&e=290850492e>
among low to middle income workers has put people in a difficult position, Coleman said.
Between the lines: Food insecurity is no longer limited to areas historically tied to need, like the Central District and Chinatown-International District, Coleman said.
* The West Seattle Food Bank has experienced a 30% increase in demand every year since 2020, development director Robbin Peterson told KING 5 <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=
acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=10eb2c8a86&e=290850492e> .
* "You think West Seattle and you think 'view homes', but some of our busiest locations are places you might not expect, like the Ballard Food Bank, Edmonds Food Bank, and Eastside areas
like Bellevue, Kirkland, and Redmond."
What's next: Food Lifeline has the goal of providing enough food for local food banks to create 164,000 meals daily for people next year while addressing the root causes of hunger, per
Coleman.
What to do: Volunteer <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=9434adadde&e=290850492e> or donate to either Food Lifeline or your local
food banks, said Coleman, and sign up for advocacy alerts <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=386bda1c26&e=290850492e> on issues affecting
food security.
Go deeper <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=31eba8079d&e=290850492e>
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Anti-Hunger and Anti-Poverty Leaders Denounce Scrooge-like Efforts to Deny Replacement SNAP Benefits to Victims of Theft, Call on Congress to Continue Policy That Keeps Food on the Table
Advocates Urge Congress to Extend Replacement Benefits
The Food Research & Action Center (FRAC) and the Coalition on Human Needs (CHN) are urging Congress to prioritize extending the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) replacement
benefits in the Farm Bill extension within the end-of-year spending package.
“As families gather to celebrate the holidays, Congress must act to protect our most vulnerable families from SNAP benefit theft,” said Crystal FitzSimons, FRAC’s interim president.
“It is unconscionable that some in Congress would stand in the way of providing SNAP replacement benefits to those who have been victims of fraud.”
Recent advances in SNAP card security, including the adoption of chip and tap technology, will significantly reduce the risk of benefit theft (known as skimming <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage
.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8248d380bd&e=290850492e> ) moving forward, but there is an urgent need to replace stolen benefits and make households whole in the meantime.
“At a moment when some lawmakers are wrongfully blaming SNAP participants for fraud or pointing fingers at states, it’s critical to remember that theft by skimming is neither the fault
of SNAP recipients nor due to state inaction,” said Deborah Weinstein, executive director of CHN.
Across the country, criminals are targeting outdated Electronic Benefit Transfer (EBT) technology to steal benefits from those who have the least. More than $150 million in SNAP benefits
have been stolen from at least 313,000 households <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=abea2ae6b4&e=290850492e> . The loss of these
benefits puts families at significant risk for hunger.
Research underscores the economic and health benefits of SNAP. Every dollar invested in SNAP generates $1.54 in economic activity during an economic downturn and supports local economies.
SNAP improves health outcomes, which lowers Medicaid costs associated with the negative impacts of food insecurity.
“We are grateful to the champions on the Agriculture Committee and in Congress who have tirelessly worked on this issue, but now is the time for all Members to come together and act.
Families harmed by benefit theft can’t wait,” added FitzSimons.
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Federal Clean Energy Tax Assistance Program (CETCAP)
Washington has launched a program to help organizations access key federal tax incentives from the Inflation Reduction Act, aimed at supporting clean energy projects. The federal Inflation
Reduction Act (IRA) extended and expanded important clean energy tax credits. This expansion included making these tax credits available to more entities, including organizations that
have not traditionally filed tax returns or had access to clean energy tax credits, also referred to as “direct pay” or “elective pay.” The Washington Department of Commerce, in partnership
with Lawyers for Good Government, is introducing Washington’s Clean Energy Tax Credit Assistance Program (CETCAP).
The CETCAP is designed for Washington community-based organizations, local government agencies, ports, housing authorities, tribes, and others with questions about eligibility and accessing
the tax credits.
This is a limited time program – please reach out today to learn more! If you are interested in leveraging this free technical and legal assistance, please complete the Requests for
Elective Pay Assistance Form <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8365604727&e=290850492e> and Lawyers for Good Government (L4GG) will
reach out directly.
L4GG will be developing more Washington-specific resources in the coming months. In the meantime, organizations can start learning about potential eligibility for your projects at L4GG’s
Clean Energy Tax Navigator <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=935f86c84e&e=290850492e> .
Resources
* Requests for Elective Pay Assistance Form <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=9265f79c94&e=290850492e>
* Clean Energy Tax Navigator <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=193e67f28c&e=290850492e>
* WA CETCAP Kickoff Webinar: Recording, slides, and training materials — Lawyers for Good Government <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=b9dfdca268&e
=290850492e>
Inside Pierce County’s <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=6b3181a042&e=290850492e> – Early Childhood Education Assistance Program
(ECEAP)
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a state-funded preschool that provides experiences geared to meet children's' individual needs. Join Pierce County Executive Bruce Dammeier as he tours an ECEAP classroom in Orting,
getting a firsthand look at how early learning is making a difference for local families.
<https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=4012db990f&e=290850492e>
The Impacts of Diaper Insecurity and Period Product Insecurity: Producing Evidence for the Future <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=a14da96061&e=29
0850492e>
Nearly half of families struggle to afford diapers, and 40 percent of menstruators with young children struggle to afford period products. It is critical to examine the health, social,
and economic impacts of diaper need and period poverty and connections to other policies supporting maternal, child, and women’s health; financial security and economic opportunity
programs; and the reach of basic needs banks. This year, the Urban Institute and the National Diaper Bank Network (NDBN) began a five-year research collaboration to plan and execute
a research agenda that leverages existing data and explores these intersections, producing evidence that will inform policies and efforts that address access to essential needs. During
this hybrid event, Urban and the NDBN will share more about this new collaboration and highlight recent policies and research around diaper insecurity and period product insecurity.
There will also be a moderated panel of experts that will explore the importance of examining the impacts of basic material needs on health and financial well-being and implications
for social and economic policies and programs.
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⬇️Click image to view entire booklet⬇️
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Washington State Digital Equity Forum
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Digital Equity Forum Invites Diverse Voices to Join
We invite you to apply for the Digital Equity Forum (DEF), a council whose input will help shape policies and programs aimed at promoting access to digital technologies and resources
for all Washingtonians. Digital equity means making sure everyone has fair and equal access to technology, including the internet, devices, and the skills to use them. As our world
becomes more digital, it’s important for us to work together to close the gaps that prevent people from fully participating in society such as accessing health resources, pursuing civic
engagement, and accessing education and job opportunities.
We are inviting passionate individuals with diverse life experiences, perspectives, and backgrounds to apply for DEF. We believe that every unique voice matters!
We are especially eager to hear from individuals whose experiences highlight the barriers to digital access that many face today. This includes, but is not limited to, individuals from
low-income households, people with disabilities, seniors, racial and ethnic minorities, rural residents, veterans, and those who have experienced housing instability or foster care.
We encourage you to apply & share this opportunity widely!
* What: Digital Equity Forum Application Open
* Why Apply: Joining DEF is a chance to help create meaningful changes in our state. Your voice can help ensure that everyone benefits from digital technology, regardless of their circumstances.
* When: The application deadline for this round is December 31, 2024. The application process will reopen again on February 1, 2025
* Where: To apply or for more information visit: http://digitalequityforum.wa.gov <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=ae425e409b&e=290850492e>
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Survey: Please share your input
Help shape a new study about alternative methods for calculating AMI in Washington state
The Department of Commerce Housing Division is conducting a study to evaluate the potential impacts of alternative methods for calculating Area Median Income (AMI).
Income limits based on AMI are used to determine eligibility for many housing assistance programs as well as rent limits for some income-restricted affordable housing. The method or
the geographic area used for calculating AMI can impact who qualifies for affordable housing and how much rent can be charged.
Commerce has contracted with BERK Consulting to conduct this study. To inform this work, we're collecting information from stakeholders about the following:
* Benefits and drawbacks of the current AMI calculation method.
* Potential impacts of changes to AMI calculation methods on efforts to meet the affordable housing needs of Washington residents.
Please complete our stakeholder survey by Jan. 5, 2025
We want to hear from anyone whose life or work is impacted by AMI and associated income limits. This might include, but is not limited to:
* Local planners
* Housing assistance program managers
* Service providers
* Developers and managers of affordable housing
* Advocates
* Persons who have experienced housing insecurity
COMPLETE SURVEY <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=41ed9d01fa&e=290850492e>
<https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8e6452ec70&e=290850492e>
Attendance at NCAP's Management & Leadership Training Conference Considered an Allowable Use of DOE Training & Technical Assistance Funds
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The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is encouraging Grantees and Subgrantees, and Weatherization Training Centers staff and contractors to attend
NCAP’s 2025 Management and Leadership Training Conference (MLTC) <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=3942b26005&e=290850492e> in New
Orleans. Attendance at this event is considered an allowable use of DOE training and technical assistance (T&TA) funds. Conference sessions include a multi-day track of training in
building non-federal partnerships to enhance the impact of WAP. Click here <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8afd66f2ac&e=290850492e>
to read the full WAP Memorandum.
<https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=60143eae31&e=290850492e>
2025 Management &Leadership Training Conference
Communities Rising: Taking Action for a Just Future
NCAP invites you to join us for our 2025 Management and Leadership Training Conference <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=2a74af3dd7&e=290850492e>
(MLTC) <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=574192790c&e=290850492e> , taking place January 29th – 31st, 2025, (Pre-Conference: Jan.
28th) in New Orleans, LA! NCAP’s MLTC is targeted to board and staff leaders at Community Action Agencies. The 2025 MLTC will feature intensive training, structured roundtable discussions,
and networking opportunities. Whether you’ve been leading and managing for years, or you’re looking forward to that promotion into management, you’ll become your best at MLTC!
* Register Here <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=9f3282436c&e=290850492e>
* Registration Guide <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=f6538db8c3&e=290850492e>
* Draft Agenda <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=ba5244ac08&e=290850492e>
REGISTRATION RATES
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Per our cancellation policy, cancellation requests received in writing to registration@communityactionpartnership.com <mailto:registration@communityactionpartnership.com> by 5 pm ET
Friday, January 10 will incur a $130 cancellation fee. Refund requests after this time will not be accepted. No-shows will be required to pay the full registration fee.
NCAP’s 2025 Management and Leadership Training Conference will be held at the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, located within a mile of the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and the Aquarium
of the Americas. The hotel offers fine dining, a cocktail lounge, and a Health Club that includes weight training equipment, outdoor pools, saunas and more.
Click here <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=991386cc6b&e=290850492e> to book a room.
2025 Innovations and Solutions for Ending Unsheltered Homelessness
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Registration is open for the 2025 Innovations and Solutions for Ending Unsheltered Homelessness <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=806276d29a&e=2908
50492e> Conference. The conference will take place from February 26 – 28, 2025 in Los Angeles, CA.
Learn More and Register Today <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=41a8f438c3&e=290850492e>
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Registration for LIHEAP Action Day is Now Open!
Register Now <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=9228b63453&e=290850492e>
Join us for LIHEAP Action Day on March 5, 2025, and the Advocacy Boot Camp and State Team Meetings on March 4, 2025. Don’t miss this opportunity to make your voice heard and advocate
for energy affordability.
Advocacy Boot Camp and State Team Meetings
Date: March 4, 2025
Time: 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM ET
What is LIHEAP Action Day?
LIHEAP Action Day is an advocacy event where participants meet with members of Congress to highlight the importance of energy assistance programs and ensure families in need have access
to essential services year-round. Advocates from 45 states attended in 2024, participating in 300+ meetings with Congress.
As a NEUAC member, your voice is crucial in shaping policy on energy assistance and energy affordability.
Registration Fees
NEUAC Members & Sponsor Organizations
Free for 2 attendees
Additional registrations at Standard rates
Discount code needed. Use code: comp25
Standard (Nonprofit, Government, Tribes)
$150 per attendee
Standard (Utilities, Corporations, Trade Associations)
$250 per attendee
Contact NEUAC for a discount code if your organization is bringing a customer or client who has received LIHEAP.
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Save the Date!
The 2025 CAPLAW National Training Conference will take place at the Sheraton Copley in Boston, MA. Join us May 28-30 to learn, be inspired, and connect with others in the Community Action
Network!
Registration Opens in February!
Learn More! <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=dd3c7ce007&e=290850492e>
Workshop tracks include:
Governance
Finance
Human Resources
Programs
Specialized
Who should attend:
CAA staff + board
Other federal grantees
Attorneys
Financial consultants
Federal + state officials
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Developmental Disabilities Administration
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Save The Date: 2025 Community Summit
DSHS Developmental Disabilities Administration is proud to announce Community Summit 2025. The Community Summit continues a long tradition of conferences that have focused on expanding
access to supported employment, supported living and assistive technology. The Summit is a two-day conference that brings together individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities,
self-advocates, families, friends, partners and allies to work together toward building more inclusive communities.
When: June 3 - 4, 2025
Where: Wenatchee Convention Center. <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=8e775e3520&e=290850492e>
Planning will begin soon! To stay up to date, please visit us at the Community Summit Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/thecommunitysummit/. <https://wapartnership.us4.list-manage.com/track/c
lick?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=b72549fcef&e=290850492e> The community Summit website will be launching soon at https://www.gowise.org/wise-events/the-community-summit/. <https://wapartnership.u
s4.list-manage.com/track/click?u=acf3cee5bbda818ebd4ce40eb&id=d33375b9c4&e=290850492e>
If you have questions about Community Summit 2025 or want to know how you can be involved, please contact Community Summit steering committee coordinator Ron Bryan at Ronald.Bryan@dshs.wa.gov
<mailto:Ronald.Bryan@dshs.wa.gov> .
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Washington State Community Action Partnership · PO Box 7130 · Olympia, WA 98507-7130 · USA
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