State committee seeks volunteers
interested in serving the disability community

If you are interested in disability justice and want to influence state decision makers, apply to become a volunteer member of the Washington State Governor’s Committee on Disability Issues & Employment (GCDE). 

The GCDE is recruiting 9 new members. The application deadline is Oct. 17, 2025. 

The committee has 25 members, all appointed by the governor. Each serves a 3-year term with the possibility of being appointed to a second 3-year term. 

Gov. Bob Ferguson will appoint new members to serve terms starting the first part of 2026. 

“It is more important now than ever to have the voice of people with disabilities represented in Washington state government,” Gov. Bob Ferguson said. “I’m proud this committee helps improve accessibility, remove barriers and make our government more inclusive, so everyone’s talents and contributions are fairly represented.” 

Committee members can live anywhere in Washington. They must meet one or more of these criteria: 

• Have a disability. 
• Have a family member with a disability. 
• Provide services to, or be an advocate for, people with disabilities. 
• Work alongside others in the disability community to bring awareness and passion to projects that impact people with disabilities statewide. 

GCDE members serve on subcommittees that work on a variety of projects, such as community outreach, youth empowerment, and legislation. New members are asked to serve on one or two subcommittees that most interest them. 

Find application instructions, and information about member qualifications and responsibilities on the GCDE become a member page. 

“Join us in shaping a more inclusive and accessible Washington,” said GCDE Chair Yvonne Bussler-White. “GCDE is seeking passionate people committed to advocacy, accessibility and inclusive opportunities for people with disabilities across our state. Your voice matters! Help us build a future where everyone can thrive in work and community life.” 

Go to the Employment Security Department (ESD) website to learn more about GCDE and its current members. ESD provides administrative support to the GCDE. 

Questions?

Contact GCDE at gcde@esd.wa.gov or 360-890-3778.