Our Inclusion Commitment
Everyone Belongs Here
At the Snoqualmie Foothills Community Collaborative, we believe that access, opportunity, and wellbeing should not be determined by race, income, age, ability, gender identity, immigration status, or background.
Our commitment to inclusion is not an afterthought—it is foundational to our mission and embedded in everything we do.
Our Core Principles
Equity-Centered Approach
We recognize that different community members face different barriers to accessing recreation. Our facility will be designed to:
- Remove physical barriers through universal design and accessibility features
- Address financial barriers through sliding-scale fees and scholarship programs
- Overcome transportation barriers through strategic location planning
- Break down social barriers through intentional programming and welcoming policies
Universal Design
Our facility will meet and exceed ADA requirements, incorporating:
- Zero-entry pools for wheelchair users and those with mobility challenges
- Accessible changing facilities with private options
- Adaptive equipment for swimmers with disabilities
- Clear wayfinding and signage for all abilities
- Sensory-friendly hours and programming
Welcoming Policies
We are committed to creating a safe, welcoming environment for all community members:
- Gender-inclusive facilities with private changing options for anyone who wants them
- Policies that affirm transgender and non-binary individuals in using facilities consistent with their gender identity
- Family-friendly programming that accommodates diverse family structures
- Cultural competency training for all staff members
- Clear anti-discrimination policies with meaningful enforcement
Accessibility Beyond Physical Design
True inclusion requires more than accessible architecture:
- Multilingual communications and signage
- Culturally responsive programming that reflects our diverse community
- Flexible scheduling to accommodate various work schedules
- Transportation partnerships to help those without reliable vehicles
- Community advisory input from underrepresented groups
Land Acknowledgment
The Snoqualmie Foothills Community Collaborative acknowledges that we gather, work, and plan on the traditional territories of the Snoqualmie Tribe and other Coast Salish peoples.
We recognize the ongoing connection of Indigenous peoples to these lands and waters, and we commit to building relationships with tribal communities as we develop this facility.
We honor the past, present, and future Indigenous stewards of this land.
Our Commitment in Action
Inclusion isn’t just words—it requires ongoing action and accountability:
- Community Input: We actively seek input from underrepresented community members in our planning process
- Advisory Groups: We will establish advisory committees representing diverse perspectives
- Staff Training: All staff will receive training in inclusive practices and cultural competency
- Regular Review: We will regularly assess our policies and practices to ensure they serve all community members
- Transparent Accountability: We will report publicly on our inclusion efforts and outcomes
Questions?
We welcome questions and feedback about our inclusion commitment. Please reach out to us at snoqualmiefoothills@gmail.com to share your thoughts or concerns.