For nearly seven decades, Sherwood Community Services has been working to ensure that children and adults with disabilities have the opportunity to learn, work, and fully participate in their communities. The organization was founded in 1957 by eight families whose children had been excluded from public education. At the time, many people with disabilities were separated from society and often viewed as incapable of learning or contributing. Those families believed otherwise, creating Sherwood to prove their children had both the right to an education and the ability to thrive.

That belief continues to guide Sherwood’s work today. Its mission is to provide innovative, inclusive services to children and adults with disabilities. While progress has been made, education and employment statistics across Washington State still show significant barriers to opportunity. Sherwood works to address those gaps by helping individuals build the skills, confidence, and support systems needed to live full and independent lives. Sherwood serves individuals at several key stages of life, beginning with its Early Supports program. This program provides therapy and education for infants and toddlers from birth to age three who have developmental disabilities or conditions that place them at risk for delays. The goal is to help children reach key milestones and better prepare for school.

Families can begin through a pediatric referral or by contacting Sherwood directly. After connecting with an intake coordinator, families work with a Family Resource Coordinator to determine the best support. Services may include developmental screenings, speech, occupational and physical therapy, feeding support, developmental education, and infant mental health counseling. Therapists often meet families in the child’s natural environment, such as their home or daycare. A key part of Sherwood’s approach is parent coaching. Caregivers participate in sessions and learn techniques to use in daily routines. 

Nearly forty percent of children who complete the Early Supports program meet developmental milestones and no longer require special education services, exceeding the statewide average. For one family, those services made a meaningful difference. When Maverick was not meeting developmental milestones, his pediatrician recommended Sherwood for speech therapy. His mother, Lynzee, had already noticed differences when he interacted with other children. “When I would spend time with families who had kids around the same age as Maverick, I could see the difference,” she said. “He wasn’t as willing to repeat words and would become frustrated.” Once Maverick began working with his speech therapist, progress followed. 

His therapist created a supportive environment while also giving Lynzee strategies to use between sessions. “Our speech therapist was wonderful with my son,” Lynzee said. “They were patient, engaging, and always came prepared with strategies tailored to his needs. Not only did they connect beautifully with him, but they also empowered me with the knowledge and tools to support his development at home.” Within six months, Maverick’s vocabulary, communication skills, and confidence improved significantly. “I’m forever grateful for the care, professionalism, and compassion we received at Sherwood,” Lynzee said. “These services made a life-changing difference for my child and our family.”

Sherwood’s support continues into adulthood through its Career and Community Connections program, which helps individuals prepare for employment and greater independence. Employment specialists work with participants to identify strengths and goals, then connect them with local employers. Support includes interview preparation, job training, and coaching on the job. Blake is one example of this impact. Through Sherwood’s program, he works as a Courtesy Clerk at Safeway, assisting customers, bagging groceries, and collecting carts. “I like to make my team proud,” Blake said. “I am a hard worker, and it’s important to me to stay focused on the task at hand.” With support from an employment specialist, Blake has built strong relationships with coworkers and become a valued member of the team. Outside of work, he enjoys creating videos for his YouTube channel featuring video games and hiking adventures across Washington State.

Employment is a central part of Sherwood’s mission. People with disabilities are three to four times more likely to live in poverty, and approximately eighty percent are unemployed. Meaningful work helps individuals build skills, gain confidence, and stay connected to their communities. Sherwood partners with schools, pediatricians, and local businesses to provide support across a lifetime. Community events also play an important role. 

The annual gala, An Evening of Believing, will take place May 9th, It brings supporters together at Tulalip Resort Casino to raise critical funding for these programs. This year’s Kentucky Derby themed evening will feature big hats, mint juleps, and a celebration of “Backing Abilities,” creating a memorable night centered on impact and community. Guests are invited to be part of this special event, with ticket information available through the QR code.

For the families and individuals served, the impact can be life-changing. It reflects a belief that began nearly seventy years ago and continues today: that every person deserves the opportunity to learn, contribute, and belong.