Catalyst Marketing Agency, in collaboration with Special Olympics Washington and Virginia Mason Franciscan Health, has launched the Alliance for Inclusive Health (AIH) Provider Portal (allianceforinclusivehealth.org/find-provider), a first-of-its-kind initiative designed to help tens of thousands of individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities (IDD) find qualified healthcare providers. The portal builds on a training program initiated in 2023 that certifies medical professionals in Washington state based on their understanding of IDD care.
The portal addresses a critical gap: many individuals with IDD struggle to locate healthcare providers who are adequately trained to meet their needs. By aggregating a growing database of certified providers, the portal enables patients and their families to quickly search for and connect with care teams tailored to their specific requirements. The resource is open to all, not just Special Olympics athletes, and requires no registration.
Rebecca Hummer, project leader for the initiative, emphasized the importance of the portal. “Catalyst has been an essential ally in the effort to ensure that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities can access safe and equitable healthcare,” she said. “Beyond the strategic, creative, and technical skills required to launch the initiative, the agency has been vital in disseminating information to both athletes and healthcare professionals statewide.”
Rion Haber, CEO of Catalyst Marketing Agency, highlighted the agency’s long-standing partnership with Special Olympics Washington. “As a long-time collaborator with Special Olympics Washington, we are strong advocates for the organization's message of inclusion. We are incredibly thankful for the opportunity to contribute to a project that will significantly impact Washingtonians with IDD and help make our state a more inclusive and equitable environment.”
The AIH initiative began in 2023 with a focus on training and certifying healthcare providers. The portal represents a major milestone, giving individuals with IDD a reliable resource to find providers and fostering a sense of agency essential to inclusion and personal dignity. The project also aims to raise awareness among athletes and healthcare professionals across the state.
Catalyst Marketing Agency, known for its mission-driven projects, has applied its enterprise-level marketing expertise to this initiative. The agency’s past work includes award-winning projects in media, municipal, and social justice sectors nationwide. Team leaders prioritize inclusion and community building as core values, aligning with Special Olympics’ mission.
The “Find a Provider” feature is now live on the AIH website (allianceforinclusivehealth.org/find-provider). Individuals with IDD and their support networks are encouraged to use the portal and provide feedback to the project lead, Rebecca Hummer.
