Michael Adusah first joined the Human Services Department in March 2023. He’s a Senior Planner with the Aging and Disability Services division, working closely with an ADS advisory council that advocates for older adults and people with disabilities. Michael writes about that council’s work and why it’s so important — and rewarding.
What is your role at Seattle Human Services?
I serve as the Staff Liaison to the Seattle-King County Advisory Council on Aging and Disability Services. This is a group of distinguished volunteers appointed to serve as advocates for local, state, and national programs that improve the quality of life for older people and adults with disabilities.
I support the Council by coordinating meetings, helping guide policy and legislative conversations, and ensuring that the perspectives of older adults, people with disabilities, and caregivers are heard in decision making. A big part of my role is connecting community members, City departments, and regional partners so lived experience helps shape programs and policy.
What do you love about your job?
The people, without question. I get to work with Advisory Council members who bring incredible lived experience, insight, and a deep commitment to equity. It is rewarding to see their perspectives shape real conversations and decisions, including advocacy efforts that reach beyond our region. I also enjoy the variety. Every day looks a little different, and the work constantly pushes me to learn and grow.
How has your job changed in the last year?
My job has changed significantly in how we engage with government officials. We have to be more prepared than ever to educate policymakers, especially because we are navigating a shifting climate shaped by budget constraints and funding cuts. It has become increasingly important to explain why human services matter and how deeply these programs affect the most vulnerable people in our communities.
At the same time, my role requires meeting Advisory Council members where they are. Everyone comes in with different levels of experience engaging in policy and advocacy, and part of my responsibility is helping all Council members feel comfortable and confident when speaking with lawmakers. I also have to stay flexible and respond quickly to a constantly changing policy landscape at the local, state, and federal levels. There really is no status quo anymore.
What motivates you or keeps you going?
What keeps me going is knowing that the work we do has real consequences for real people. Much of our work supports individuals and families who are already navigating difficult systems, and I take that responsibility seriously. I am motivated by the opportunity to help make those systems clearer, more responsive, and more humane.
I am also motivated by the people I work with. Council members, colleagues, and community partners bring deep commitment to the table, which continually reinforces why this work matters. Even when the policy landscape feels uncertain or challenging, staying focused on the people we serve keeps me grounded and moving forward.