Council proclaims October 2025 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month

The San Juan County Council on Oct. 7 adopted a proclamation recognizing October 2025 as National Disability Employment Awareness Month.

Jamie Mitchell, Human Services manager, described the county's contracts with Washington State's Developmental Disabilities Administration to provide individual employment and community inclusion services, and said the county typically supports about six residents with contracted services across the islands. Sherwood Community Services representatives described the nonprofit's decision to provide services in the county after a prior local provider left and emphasized long‑term supports to help people develop careers and independence. "Employment is one goal that we strive to accomplish," said Lance Morehouse, executive director of Sherwood Community Services, adding the organization focuses on supporting long‑term careers.

Council members read and adopted the proclamation noting the county's partnerships with state agencies and nonprofit contractors and encouraging employers and schools to support inclusion and opportunities for people with disabilities. The proclamation was entered into the minutes and staff and local media were thanked for outreach and coverage of client stories.