About the project

The GCDE will solicit proposals from active ACACs for projects to improve disability awareness and access for persons with disabilities, and will select projects for funding.

About the website

The Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues and Employment (GCDE) was given the task to develop the Accessible Community Advisory Committee (ACAC) website to provide the following information: guidance, technical assistance, reference materials, and resource identification for local governments, accessible community advisory committees and public accommodations; examples of best practices for local initiatives and activities to promote greater awareness of disability issues and access for persons with disabilities within the community; and a searchable listing of local public accommodations that have taken steps to be more disability friendly, including information on the specific access features provided.

About the GCDE

We promote equality, opportunity, independence and full participation in life for people with disabilities. Our members represent a wide range of constituent groups, geographical perspectives, ethnic origins and cultural heritage.

Together, we:

• Advise Governor Inslee, the legislature and state agencies on policies that affect people with disabilities.
• Monitor legislation to assure equal opportunity and access for employment, education, healthcare and public services. Promote understanding of the needs and potential of people with disabilities, offering information and awareness training to the public.
• Recognize employers who demonstrate leadership in employing people with disabilities.
• Provide training and technical assistance to the business community to promote employment opportunities and awareness of disability issues.
• Conduct our activities in barrier-free environments and use appropriate auxiliary aids and services to ensure effective communication.