Supporting People with Disabilities in Seattle
This year marks 35 years since the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA) became law. Signed into law on July 26, 1990, the ADA is a major civil rights law that protects individuals with disabilities from discrimination. It helps make sure everyone has equal access to jobs, public spaces, transportation, and more.
July is also Disability Pride Month, first celebrated in 2015 to mark the 25th anniversary of the ADA. It’s a time to recognize the contributions, experiences, and strengths of people with disabilities—and to keep working toward a more inclusive future. As we celebrate this milestone, the City of Seattle remains committed to building a city where everyone can live with dignity, independence, and full access to community life.
Since the ADA was passed, Seattle has made progress in becoming more accessible. From adding curb ramps and accessible restrooms to enhancing city programs and services, we continue to work towards making Seattle a welcoming place for all.
At the Seattle Human Services Department, our Aging and Disability Services (ADS) team works with community partners to connect adults with disabilities and their families to the support they need. Three such ways include Community Living Connections, the FLASH Card, and the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging & Disability Services.
Share these three resources:
Community Living Connections
This free service connects people with disabilities—and their caregivers or family members—with trained professionals who can help find the right services and supports. Whether you need help now or are planning for the future, they can assist.
- Call: 1-844-348-5464
- Email: info@communitylivingconnections.org
- Visit: communitylivingconnections.org
FLASH Card (Fun Leisure Access Savings & Health)
The FLASH Card gives adults with disabilities in Seattle and King County discounts at local businesses, recreation centers, and events. It helps make it easier to enjoy fun and healthy activities in the community. Applying for a FLASH card is free. Applications are available online, or at a local community center or your local public library branch.
Advocacy and Resources
The Seattle-King County Advisory Council for Aging & Disability Services helps guide our work by advocating for policies, programs, and funding that support the needs of older adults and people with disabilities. Council members bring community voices to the table and help ensure services reflect lived experience. The Advisory Council also publishes AgeWise, an e-zine on Aging and Disability Services. ADS staff and community contributors share tools and tips to make daily life easier and more accessible. Learn more or get involved at agingkingcounty.org/advisory-council.