Asotin-Garfield County Employment 4 All Holds Resource Fairs To Support High School Students With Disabilities | Local

CLARKSTON – Jonathan Chase, a professional musician and passionate advocate, speaker and mentor for young adults on the Autism Spectrum, will speak and perform for educators, students, and their families on March 27 and March 28. Following the presentation, vendors and representatives from local agencies will provide resources related to FREE career readiness services from the Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation (DVR) and Washington State Developmental Disabilities Administration. This event is sponsored by DVR’s School to Work program, whose mission is “JOBS BY JUNE,” assisting students in finding paid employment before they graduate from high school.

March 27: Asotin-Anatone Jr./Sr. High School Gym at 10 a.m.

March 27: Clarkston High School Library at 2 p.m.

March 28: Pomeroy Jr./Sr. High School Gym at 9:30 a.m.

Featured speaker Jonathan Chase was diagnosed with Asperger’s at 14 and has dedicated his career to promoting awareness and support for individuals with disabilities. Since 2008, he has worked with agencies, nonprofits, and families to foster understanding and inclusion. Beyond advocacy, Jonathan is also a talented musician who has collaborated with renowned bassist and former TED speaker Victor Wooten, using music as a platform for connection and empowerment. His unique perspective and inspiring journey will offer valuable insights to students, parents, and educators alike.

Determining eligibility for Developmental Disabilities Waiver Services is a first step toward gaining critical supports well before high school. Families with students with developmental disabilities age 3 and up may apply to access services through the Developmental Disabilities Administration at: https://asotingarfieldemployment4all.org/how-to-apply-for-dda-services/.

If families are unable to attend but would like information about their student’s eligibility, contact Jennifer at the Washington State Division of Vocational Rehabilitation via email,  jennifer.smith1@dshs.wa.gov, or call 509780.7687. Information regardingaccess to services for adults 21+ with disabilities is also available. Visit https://asotingarfieldemployment4all.org/bridging-the-gap-disability-resource-fair/ for more information.

The Resource Fair is a collaborative effort between Asotin-Garfield County Employment 4 All, the Washington State Department of Social & Health Services Division of Vocational Rehabilitation, Developmental Disabilities Administration and WorkSource.