Walla Walla Valley Disability Network

12/16/2025

For the past several years, SOAR and the Walla Walla Valley Disability Network have proudly taken part in the Walla Walla Annual Parade of Lights, but this year felt truly extraordinary.

Each year, the parade brings us joy and a sense of connection. Last year, we celebrated a small but meaningful win when our float received a roof, keeping our participants warm and dry. This year, that foundation became something even brighter. With brand new décor and a fresh design, our float came alive: sparkling, shining, and reflecting the spirit of the people it carried. Six hours of planning and building went into creating it, and every moment was worth it.

This year, 26 participants, 7 staff, and 19 volunteers joined in the celebration. Some rode on the float, singing Christmas songs at the top of their lungs and calling out cheerful holiday greetings as they scanned the crowd for familiar faces. Others chose to walk alongside, wearing merry outfits, inflatable costumes, and contagious smiles, handing out candy to children lining the streets. Laughter echoed, hands waved, and joy flowed freely in every direction.

What stood out most was the energy. Our participants were more excited than ever, overflowing with confidence and pride as they invited the crowd to cheer, celebrate, and join in the fun. It was a powerful reminder of why we do this. The parade isn’t just about lights and music; it’s about visibility, belonging, and connection.

We started participating because we thought it would be fun, and it is. But it is also something much deeper. It’s a chance for our community to truly see individuals of all abilities shining together. It’s an opportunity to build awareness, foster inclusion, and show what’s possible when people are supported, celebrated, and given space to thrive.

Moments like these are made possible because of volunteers, donors, and community members who believe in the mission of the Walla Walla Valley Disability Network. When you invest your time, energy, or resources, you’re helping create experiences that build confidence, joy, and lifelong memories.

Together, we’re not just lighting up a parade; we’re lighting the way toward a more inclusive community for all.

12/10/2025

WWVDN has 2 Parent to Parent and Informing Families Coordinators (English & Spanish speaking) on staff ready to help you.

Here is a quick guide to help you understand the roles of three key programs that support families and individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities in Washington State. These programs offer specific supports and programs to help you and your loved ones navigate systems and services i...

11/29/2025

Thank you to everyone who makes SOAR the fantastic program it is - Tash, SOAR participants, volunteers, parents, caregivers, and this community.

SOAR, which stands for Social Opportunities and Recreation, is a program under the Walla Walla Valley Disability Network. The program hosted its fourth annual Friendsgiving event.

11/27/2025

From all of us to all of you - Happy Thanksgiving! May you be surrounded today by good food, love, and joy.

11/19/2025

Amazing what a difference assistive technology makes in the lives of people with disabilities!

Kevin Sullivan has a rare condition that requires him to receive care every morning, afternoon and night, but the Illinois man has found many ways to maintain his own independence.

11/05/2025

Join us Tuesday, Nov 11 at 4:00pm for Connect & Play. While parents relax, recharge, and learn about Assistive Technology, kids (**12 and under**) will be getting into the holiday spirit with cookie decorating and festive crafts. It’s the perfect midweek pick-me-up after a long day. Come and enjoy good company, sweet treats, and a fun way to connect with others who understand the journey. RSVP at https://www.wwvdn.org/news-events/upcoming-events.html/event/2025/11/11/connect-play-cookie-decorating-crafts/540406

** ages 13 and older check out our SOAR events at https://www.wwvdn.org/who-we-are/soar-social-opportunities-and-recreation.html

11/04/2025

Thank you caregivers.

November is National Family Caregivers Month! It is a time for us to acknowledge and honor the hard work of more than 50 million family caregivers across the country. We raise awareness of the need for greater support for those family caregivers.

Check out Unseen’s webpage on National Family Caregivers Month here: https://caregiverdoc.com/national-family-caregivers-month/ to learn more about who family caregivers, what they do, and how you can show your appreciation.

10/28/2025

Thank you MOD Pizza and everyone who ordered pizza in support of WWVDN on Friday, October 24 - together we raised awareness of disability & employment while raising funds to support the continued work of WWVDN.

10/24/2025

Mark your calendar and join us for our disability-friendly Harvest Party and Chili Cook Off on Wednesday, October 29 at the Center for Children & Families at 5:30 pm. RSVP at https://www.wwvdn.org/news-events/upcoming-events.html/event/2025/10/29/harvest-party-chili-cook-off/539651 We hope to see you there!

10/24/2025

Today's the day! Enjoy MOD Pizza and tell them you're supporting Walla Walla Valley Disability Network and they will donate 25% of their sales. If ordering online, use code MODGIVES25. Eat yummy pizza and support a great cause!

In person or online on Oct 24, 2025

10/19/2025

October is National Disability Employment Awareness Month. WWVDN will be at MOD Pizza from 3pm to 7pm with information and a display of people with disabilities who are working in our community. Enjoy pizza any time during Friday, Oct 24 and mention WWVDN at checkout or order online and use code MODGIVES25 at checkout and MOD will donate 25% of their sales to WWVDN in support of our mission of community inclusion and belonging. Are you hungry yet?

10/10/2025

The SmileMobile serves community members who have Medicaid coverage or no insurance. Children and adults are welcome. Give them a call and schedule your appointment today!