Since 2022, AtWork! has been quietly, and passionately, changing lives on Vashon Island. Invited by King County to expand its services, the organization came with a mission: to empower people with intellectual and developmental disabilities to thrive as contributing members of their communities.
AtWork! might not have a storefront, but its presence is steadily growing. It’s a member of the Vashon Chamber of Commerce. Their staff can be seen out and about, partnering with local employers, attending community events and helping people build skills and confidence through personalized employment and community inclusion services.
AtWork! is currently supporting 10 individuals on the island, with two participating in both employment and community inclusion programs.
Thanks to a collaborative approach and strong local relationships, they’ve built trust with several Vashon businesses, including Thriftway, Haven Rescue and Vashon Youth & Family Services, who’ve welcomed the people they serve and helped create meaningful, lasting roles. These jobs aren’t charity – they’re a reflection of the island’s values: connection, compassion and contribution.
Logan is enjoying his work at Thriftway, meeting new friends and gaining confidence. Courtesy AtWork!
Take Logan at Thriftway, for example. Since starting, he’s grown his hours and taken on more responsibility. His coworkers know him by name, and he’s thriving. Or Carl, who found his place at the Vashon Pharmacy, adding value while building his confidence and independence. These are just a few of the stories unfolding here.
But it hasn’t been without its challenges. With limited resources and no School-to-Work transition program currently active on the island, it’s been harder to reach potential clients and families.
Many don’t realize they qualify for services through DDA or DVR – or that AtWork! can help them navigate those systems.
The good news? They’re here to help. Whether you’re a family looking for support, a business curious about inclusive hiring or a community member who just wants to learn more about supporting folks with intellectual and developmental disabilities, they’d love to connect.
With one-on-one suppot from AtWork!, Doug is thriving at Thriftway, and in his other opportunities to give back in the community. Courtesy AtWork!
Believing in building relationships from the inside out, AtWork! is not only supporting the people they serve, they’re supporting the families and employers who welcome them. And for a tight-knit community like Vashon, where every connection matters, it means everything.
“AtWork! has been an incredible support for my brother Doug, both in his job and in the community. With their one-on-one support, Doug has thrived at Thriftway, where he’s built a strong circle of friends and supporters,” says Blythe Denies. “Each year, they help him set new goals and continue to grow his skills on the job. Through their Community Inclusion program, AtWork! took the time to learn about Doug’s interests and matched him with volunteer opportunities at Haven Rescue and Ghost Owl Farm.
“These connections have become an important part of his life – he looks forward to giving back every week and has built a wide network of friendships across the island. In fact, it’s rare to walk through town without someone recognizing Doug from one of his many roles and stopping to say hello.”
Want to help create a more inclusive Vashon? Visit atworkwa.org/vashon, find them on social media at @atworkwa, or find them at a coming community event. Let’s work together to open more doors – because when everyone belongs, the whole community thrives.
