This month, we pause to acknowledge a moment of concern for our community: dramatic shifts in federal policy that threaten the services so many of our neighbors rely on for their recovery.
As we navigate this time of uncertainty, our team remains grounded in the fact that SOUND has served King County for more than 60 years. And through six decades ofchange, one thing has remained constant: our ability to adapt, to lead, and to care forthose around us, no matter the challenges we face.Today’s climate is no different.
Legislation recently passed by federal lawmakers comes with painful trade-offs, includingsweeping cuts to Medicaid and SNAP. These programs are lifelines, relied upon bythousands of SOUND clients every day across King County, programs that allow people toregain and maintain control of their lives.
Here in Washington state, the expansion of Medicaid (Apple Health) has been acornerstone of improved behavioral healthcare access. Rolling back this progress puts ourcollective well-being at risk. Mental health and substance use challenges are difficultenough on their own and compounding them with fewer resources and more red tape willhave real, tangible consequences in our community.
While we're still working to analyze future impacts of new legislation, SOUND remainsfiercely committed to our mission and we’re taking action.
Just a few weeks ago, I traveled with fellow members of our statewide conveningorganization, the Washington Council for Behavioral Health, to advocate directly withlawmakers in Washington D.C. Along with my colleagues in leadership and advocacycoalition Fourfront Contributor, I’m meeting regularly with state officials as well. And hereat SOUND, our teams are already working to adjust and plan – exploring every avenue toprotect care for our clients and continue to do the next right thing.
But we can’t accomplish this alone. Now more than ever, we need our community – our donors, our partners, our allies – to stand with us. Your support helps ensure SOUND remains a lifeline for those who need it, and every dollar is a necessity in keeping our Orange Door open to all.
Thank you for continuing to walk with us. For showing up, speaking out, and standing firm in your belief that everyone deserves access to care.
Sincerely,
Katrina Egner
SOUND President & CEO
This September, SOUND celebrated the power of partnerships in advancing hope, healing, and recovery. Highlights included the ribbon-cutting of the new ICHS Auburn Clinic, bringing integrated health services under one roof, and the launch of our SOUND Activation Station at Southcenter Mall to raise awareness on suicide prevention. We look ahead with excitement to the upcoming Sound of Hope Gala, where we’ll continue building community support for accessible, equitable care.
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Earlier this month, we had the honor of cutting the ribbon and officially opening the doors to a new chapter of care in Auburn. In partnership with International Community Health Services (ICHS), SOUND's Auburn clinic is now home to integrated behavioral health, primary care, and mobile dental services, all under one roof. This collaboration is more than just a co-habitation; it’s a powerful step toward whole-person care that lowers barriers, makes services easier to access, and provides a more supportive experience for individuals and families in our community.
Read moreThis summer has been energizing as we connected with our SOUND community in meaningful ways. From serving meals at FareStart, to tabling at the THING festival, to our first-ever golf tournament, one theme remained clear: behavioral health impacts us all. These moments of connection reinforced why we’re here—to keep the Orange Door open, expand access, and break down stigma. Thank you for your advocacy, partnership, and belief in SOUND’s mission. Together, we’re making compassionate, quality care possible.
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