Intent

When communities of people, grouped together by age, location, or another characteristic, are not allowed to participate in government actions or decision-making, the outcomes are usually processes, policies, and procedures that make it more difficult for them to be successful. Washington state is becoming a government that does things with people instead of to them, truly a government of, by, and for the people. This toolkit was created to help agencies collaborate with community members in a way that is not harmful. It provides standards for Washington state agency interactions with community members. This toolkit includes templates, checklists, references and links to external supporting resources, and real-world scenarios on how to make community participation in statutory and non-statutory workgroups inclusive, validating, and empowering. 

As you implement the standards in this toolkit, keep in mind the intent: “People with direct lived experience are experts in their own lives and must lead decision making that affects them. Policy development must start in these communities to make sure the intent matches the final impact. People with direct lived experience must have the accommodations they need to effectively advocate for themselves.” (Source: Nothing About Us Without Us Coalition).

Note: this toolkit has been designed for state agency staff to be applied in situations where an agency is overseeing a statutory entity such as an official workgroup or committee. Over time additional tools may be added to address other forms of engagement such as informal community meetings, written communication, surveys, or outreach regarding services and programs. Apply the best practices found in this toolkit broadly, while keeping in mind the toolkit’s purpose.