Kimberly Meck, Chair

Dion Graham

Josie Garcia

Born and raised in the Tri-Cities, I am a mother, advocate, and disability rights leader whose strength comes from lived experience. As a woman navigating my own disabilities while raising three sons — two of whom are on the autism spectrum — I understands firsthand what it means to face barriers that others never see. When my sons were diagnosed and I searched for support, I found little to nothing available for families like mine. Rather than accepting that gap, I built something better. That act of determination became the foundation of a life dedicated to advocacy, community building, and fighting for the rights of those too often overlooked. My work is deeply personal. It is rooted in the belief that every person — regardless of ability — deserves access, dignity, and a community that shows up for them. I have spent years creating the support systems I once wished had existed, and I have no intention of stopping. FOUNDER CASP — Community Autism Support Partners CASP is my first and most important project. It brings together parents of children with autism so they can connect with one another, share experiences, and find the support they deserve. Through our Family Connection Nights, children enjoy activities like crafts and games while parents build real community — because no one should have to navigate this journey alone. My advocacy extends well beyond CASP. I have served as the FYSPRT Family Tri-Lead for nearly a year. FYSPRT (pronounced "FIS-PERT") unites families, youth, system partners, and community members to strengthen behavioral health resources for children and families across our region. I am a fellow with WAFA, a program that equips parents and family members with leadership skills to become school and civic leaders — helping schools and organizations include parent voices in the decisions that affect our children's lives. I have also been a MomsRising Fellow, supporting a national grassroots movement of over a million members advocating for economic security for moms, women, and families — including paid family leave, affordable childcare, healthcare access, and an end to wage discrimination. Through my work with the ATP and PAC groups in my children's school district, I helped plan and organize parent education meetings for the bilingual and migrant families of our community, ensuring every family has access to the resources and information they need. As a Parent Ambassador, I help elevate parents to show up as their authentic selves, claim their seats at decision-making tables, and amplify their voices. This work centers equity, justice, diversity, and accessibility — empowering caregivers to advocate for policy changes that improve outcomes for children and families at the local, state, and federal levels. I currently work at the local Arc, supporting individuals with disabilities to live meaningful and prosperous lives. ARECENTLY APPOINTED Washington Statewide Independent Living Council (WASILC) As a governor-appointed council member, I am learning and contributing to statewide advocacy for people with disabilities across Washington and tribal lands. WASILC is guided by the belief that people with disabilities should have the power to make their own choices and thrive as valued members of our communities. I am deeply passionate about mental health and the rights of people with any disabilities. I believe we all carry the same worth and the same potential. With the right support, every person is capable of reaching their full potential.

Susan Pniewski

Sue Pniewski is the Access & Functional Needs Program Manager, Emergency Management Division, WA Military Department. She began her career at Independent Living Centers in NJ, developing programs to support students with disabilities transitioning from high school to adult life. After Hurricane Sandy struck the Jersey Shore where she lived, she developed a program for the nonprofit organization, Portlight Strategies, to provide replacement durable medical equipment and home accessibility grants for people with disabilities affected by the disaster. She worked very closely with the Disaster Case Management program assisting with disability-related unmet needs. Sue then joined FEMA, deploying over the next 8 years as a Disability Integration Advisor, Applicant Services Program Specialist and Voluntary Agency Liaison. She moved to Washington in July 2024.

Tricia Eyerly