Expanding ABA Therapy Access for Children with Autism in Seattle

Easterseals Washington (ESW) has supported children and adults with disabilities across Washington State since 1947. Our Olympic Peninsula Autism Center (OPAC) provides individualized Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA) therapy, helping children develop language, self-regulation, and social skills while empowering families to support progress at home. Demand for these services in other parts of the state has grown sharply, with Seattle/King County families often waiting six months or more for therapy openings. 

ESW seeks $12,000 to help bring our evidence-based ABA program to our Seattle office. Modeled after OPAC’s success, this project will serve 14 additional children with autism and their families in King County who face long wait times for care. 

Grant funds will contribute to designing and furnishing a dedicated therapy space, training and onboarding one new Board-Certified Behavior Analyst (BCBA) and two Registered Behavior Technicians (RBTs) and purchasing specialized assessment materials and sensory tools. Each child will receive 20–25 hours of individualized ABA therapy weekly under BCBA supervision. While the funds will not cover all start-up costs, they will provide the critical foundation to launch services. Additional support will come from Easterseals Washington leadership and other foundation partners. 

This expansion will reduce barriers to timely, high-quality autism services, help children build communication and daily living skills, and strengthen family stability. The renovated site will accommodate individualized case management and provide a classroom environment for family and community training. Together, we will advance inclusion, independence, and equitable access to essential healthcare, ensuring every child can learn, communicate, and thrive. 

(Note for Foundation:  this grant is being resubmitted today 10/31, as I had a technical glitch yesterday and wasn't sure of attachments being included. Thanks!)