Developmental Disabilities

The Developmental Disabilities Program contracts with various agencies in the community to provide services for residents of Pierce County and their families. The program is responsible for:
  • County-wide information and education,
  • Early Supports for Infants and Toddlers (ESIT) with developmental delays from birth to three years, and
  • Employment and community access programs for adults 21 and older.
Primary funding for all services comes from the Washington State Department of Social and Health Services, the Department of Early Learning Supports for Infants and Toddlers Program, and School Districts.
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Early Supports for Infants and Toddlers
Early Supports for Infants and Toddlers (formerly known as Early Intervention) are designed to build upon family strengths by providing coordination, supports, resources, and services to enhance the development of children with developmental delays and disabilities through everyday learning opportunities. Services are individualized, and may include speech therapy, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and specialized instruction.

Contact person:
Brayde Willson, Early Intervention Specialist
253-798-3795
[email protected]

For Referrals:
Online Referral Form
Phone: 253-798-3790
Fax: 253-798-2818
[email protected]
Adult Services
Developmental Disabilities administers Employment and Community Inclusion Services to assist individuals with developmental disabilities in obtaining and maintaining employment. Through partnerships with Employment Service Vendors, participants are supported in achieving community employment that offers competitive wages, an integrated work environment, and the greatest opportunity for independence on the job. Support Services are individualized to meet each person's need on the job that are consistent with the participant's interest, skills, and employment goals.

Contact person:
Tara Zink, Employment Program Specialist
253-798-4386
[email protected]
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school teen
School to work:
Pierce County’s School to Work Program is designed to assist eligible transition students in obtaining paid employment prior to exiting school.

Contact person:
Sundus Ali, School to Work Program Specialist
253-798-4368
[email protected]
Information and Education Services
The Developmental Disabilities Program contracts with various agencies in the community to provide Information and Education Services for residents of Pierce County and their families.

Contact person:
Malissa Adame, Developmental Disabilities Supervisor
 253-798-4332
[email protected]
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