Cascade Connections Named 2026 SETWorks Inspiring Progress Achievement Award Winner

A reputation for excellence helped Cascade Connections earn community recognition while expanding its impact.

September 22, 2026
Client Contest, Service Providers

Awards may celebrate a single achievement, but they’re often the result of years of sustained effort and a commitment to serving the community.

That’s the idea behind SETWorks Inspiring Progress Contest. Now in its fourth year, the contest recognizes one organization each in the Innovation, Transformation, and Achievement categories, highlighting approaches other providers can learn from while providing funding to help those efforts continue to grow.

We’re proud to announce Cascade Connections as the 2026 Achievement Award winner for demonstrating how strong community relationships can create lasting impact.

Building a reputation for excellence

Since 1980, Cascade Connections has worked to improve the quality of life for people with disabilities in Whatcom County, Washington.

Over the years, the organization has expanded its services to meet changing community needs, growing from a single group home into a provider supporting people with disabilities, seniors, and others through a range of home care services.

Cascade Connections has also made a point of building relationships throughout the community by participating in local events and job fairs, connecting with senior centers, and partnering with other organizations and community leaders.

Guiding those efforts is a management team of five people, all in their twenties. “By empowering emerging leaders, we’ve expanded our presence in the community and built meaningful relationships with people of all ages and backgrounds who may benefit from our services,” says Home Care Director Alyssa Jackson.

Recognition from the community

In 2025, residents of Whatcom County nominated Cascade Connections for the community-voted “Cascades Best” Awards for the first time. The organization went on to place second among the county’s top home care providers before earning first place the following year.

For the team, the awards reflect the trust they’ve built within the community over time. “Being recognized by our community two years in a row has been incredibly meaningful for our entire team,” says Alyssa. “It reinforces that the work we do is making a positive impact and that the services we provide are valued by the people and families we serve.”

Turning recognition into impact

Since receiving this recognition, Cascade Connections has experienced increased referrals, continued strong staff retention, and additional media attention highlighting its work in the community.

Together, those outcomes have helped the organization reach more people while strengthening the community relationships that have been at the heart of its success.

“One of the biggest lessons we’ve learned from this achievement is the value of building strong community connections,” says Alyssa. “Many people are unaware of the services and support available to them until they have the opportunity to meet your team. Those personal connections build trust, increase awareness, and ultimately help ensure that more individuals receive the services they need.“

We’re honored to recognize Cascade Connections as our 2026 Achievement award winner. Your dedication to building relationships and earning your community’s trust is an inspiring example for other providers!