AGING AND DISABILITY SERVICES ADMINISTRATION

December 27, 2002

AASA: BH #2002-023
ADMINISTRATION MERGER & NAME CHANGE

Dear Boarding Home Provider:

This is to notify you of recent changes to the Aging and Disability Services Administration.

History
The Department of Social and Health Services (DSHS) is an umbrella human service agency with over 18,000 employees, divided into seven administrations, which provide a host of services ranging from welfare to child care, juvenile rehabilitation, mental health, rehabilitation, and medical assistance.

Merger
In the Fall of 2002, DSHS Secretary Dennis Braddock announced that Aging and Disability Services Administration (AASA) and the Division of Developmental Disabilities (DDD), would merge to create a single new administration designed to improve and streamline services to people with developmental disabilities, disabled adults, and vulnerable elderly.

Kathy Leitch, Assistant Secretary of AASA, has been appointed Assistant Secretary of ADSA. Under her leadership, we will continue to expand efficiencies to care for residents and clients requiring long-term support.

Name Change
With this merger comes a new name for the administration formerly known as Aging and Disability Services. The new name is Aging and Disability Services Administration (or ADSA). This will be effective immediately. You may continue to see the AASA acronym appear on publications and letterhead as we make prudent use of existing resources.

What does this mean for you?
All current programs will remain intact. The work you do will continue without change. If any changes do occur, you will be notified in the same manner to which you are accustomed.

Thank you for your patience during this transition.

Sincerely,

Patricia K. Lashway, Director
Residential Care Services