Stay informed about social issues news and updates in Olympia, WA.
Michael Petty, a retired civil servant, continues to impact his community through volunteer work with the Olympia Host Lions Club and the Lions Low Vision Resource Center. Honored by AARP with the 2024 Washington State Andrus Award for Community Service, Petty's dedication includes various initiatives, such as building tiny homes and providing vision aids to those in need.
Vy Le, a 16-year-old student from Olympia High School, founded WhereWear to provide high-quality clothing to domestic violence shelters in Thurston County and beyond after witnessing the struggles of her cousin in a shelter. With support from various grants and mentorship programs, WhereWear expanded rapidly, donating over 7,000 clothing items across five states in its first year. This initiative not only addresses clothing needs for vulnerable populations but also showcases the power of youth-led community service projects.
The Dispute Resolution Center of Thurston County has expanded its housing-related conflict resolution services at no cost to residents in Thurston and south Mason counties, thanks to partnerships with local cities. The center offers mediation for issues like overdue rent, lease agreements, and neighborhood disputes, ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent access to these vital resources. To learn more, residents can visit their website or contact them directly.
The Thurston – Mason County Developmental Disabilities Resource and Transition Fair, scheduled for March 11, 2025, aims to support over 8 million Americans living with intellectual or developmental disabilities by providing essential resources and information. The event is open to I/DD students, families, educators, and community members, promoting awareness and inclusion during Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month. Attendees can access various services, including application assistance for Developmental Disabilities Administration benefits and sensory-friendly spaces for those needing a calming environment.
Más de 8 millones de estadounidenses viven con discapacidades intelectuales o del desarrollo (I/DD), y para ayudar a estas comunidades, la Feria de Recursos y Transición de Discapacidades del Desarrollo del Condado de Thurston-Mason se llevará a cabo el 11 de marzo de 2025. Este evento gratuito ofrecerá recursos y asistencia para estudiantes, familias y educadores, promoviendo la inclusión y el acceso a servicios vitales.
The article delves into Thurston County's early 20th-century Black history, highlighting the lives of Black settlers and families through federal census records and local documentation. It emphasizes the challenges faced due to discrimination while also showcasing the contributions of Black-owned businesses and community members. This exploration serves as a vital resource for understanding the often-overlooked narratives of Black residents in the region.
Peer Olympia is a vital resource in downtown Olympia, offering no-cost peer-driven support for individuals facing barriers related to affordable housing, addiction recovery, and mental health challenges. With a focus on lived experiences, the organization connects community members to essential services, fostering a supportive environment that prioritizes inclusivity and empowerment. Their volunteer-driven model not only addresses immediate needs but also champions long-term recovery and resilience in the community.
Sabrina White, a teacher at Hansen Elementary School, has established the nonprofit Raindrops to Polkadots to provide free clothing, school supplies, and food to youth in Thurston County. Originating from a personal desire to help her students in need, the initiative has grown significantly, supported by community donations and various events like clothing drives and a Prom Pop-Up Shop.
Thurston County Public Health and Social Services has released the final data for the 2024 Point-in-Time Count Homeless Census, revealing a total of 952 individuals experiencing homelessness on January 25, 2024. This marks an increase of 212 individuals from the previous year, highlighting the ongoing challenges within the community. The county is actively working to improve its Homeless Crisis Response System and develop a Local Homeless Housing Plan.
Thurston County's 2024 homeless census revealed 952 individuals experiencing homelessness, reflecting an increase of 212 from the previous year. The annual Point-In-Time Count, which is conducted every January, highlights ongoing challenges in addressing homelessness, particularly the lack of sufficient shelter beds to meet growing needs.