The Thurston County Advocacy Coalition of which Morningside is a member is made up of 15 service providers and advocacy groups. The Coalition sponsored a “Meet the Candidates” Forum on Tuesday October 9th at River Ridge Covenant Church. The event was designed for people with disabilities and their advocates to hear from the candidates and their view and support of individuals with disabilities in our community. Over 50 persons turned out to hear the 12 candidates running for public office in the 2nd, 20th, 22nd and 35th legislative districts as well as Thurston County Commissioner. We were pleased at the turnout and feel confident that these candidates that spoke to us knew the importance of community inclusion and services in the lives of our citizens with disabilities.

I want to thank our board member and client Lucas Doelman for preparing and presenting his talk on taking the dis out of disability and achieving hopes and dreams the same for all citizens in this country. Our own Lori Bates spoke of the importance of work and how she is included in the workplace by being a good team member and encouraging customers. She is the star of our video story found at    http://www.youtube.com/user/morningsideservices?feature=results%20main