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A Legacy of Dedication and Partnership

In 1994, a visionary group of healthcare professionals, community advocates, and leaders came together with one shared goal: to reduce the incidence of vaccine-preventable diseases across Washington state. Thirty years later, the Immunization Action Coalition of Washington (IACW) stands as a testament to what can be achieved when dedicated individuals and organizations work together. At the heart of this coalition is WithinReach, serving as the backbone organization since the beginning. This enduring partnership between the Department of Health, healthcare providers, pharmacies, community leaders, and WithinReach has built a coalition that has led to one of the highest vaccination rates in the nation. 

“As I reflect on the coalition’s journey, I am inspired by the depth of collaboration, resilience, and shared commitment that have been constant throughout the years. IACW’s impact—measured not only in vaccination rates but in lives protected and communities strengthened—has become a pillar of public health in Washington” noted Sharon Silver, WithinReach CEO.  

A Legacy of Impact and Collaboration 

The Department of Health has been instrumental in the coalition’s journey, providing essential support and guidance. Reflecting on this partnership, Michelle Roberts, Assistant Secretary of the Department of Health and long-standing Coalition member, shared, “The Immunization Action Coalition of Washington (IACW) has been a cornerstone in our state’s public health efforts. Its unwavering commitment to collaboration and education has significantly advanced immunization practices, ensuring that our communities are protected against vaccine-preventable diseases. The Coalition’s dedication to equitable access and optimal use of immunizations across the lifespan has been instrumental in safeguarding the health of Washingtonians.” 

Building on this commitment to collaboration, IACW has created spaces for education, innovation, and connection among immunization stakeholders statewide. Through events like the biennial Immunization Summit, the Coalition brings together healthcare providers, policymakers, and community organizations to address emerging challenges and share insights. The 2023 Summit, which hosted 359 attendees, exemplified IACW’s enduring relevance and impact. “The Immunization Summit is where we see the spirit of IACW in action,” notes Ajia McAfterty, Senior Manager of Coalitions and Partnerships at WithinReach. “Our collective knowledge and experiences allow us to address the changing landscape of immunization with unity and shared purpose.” 

Addressing Vaccine Misinformation: A Rising Challenge 

Over the decades, the IACW has witnessed the growing impact of misinformation, particularly surrounding vaccines—a challenge that persists today. Vaccine hesitancy, compounded by misinformation, threatens public health progress and continues to undermine trust in scientifically backed health interventions. With recent shifts in federal perspectives, including potential impacts from the second Trump administration, our commitment to science-based advocacy is more important than ever. 

“As our Coalition has evolved, so has our focus on providing reliable, science-based information to address vaccine hesitancy and to increase vaccine confidence. In Washington, we know that empowering families and communities with accurate information is key to protecting public health,” shared Mackenzie Melton, who led the IACW for many years. “Today, the need for a coalition of pro-vaccine advocates is stronger than ever.”  

WithinReach’s Ongoing Commitment 

“At WithinReach, we remain steadfast in our mission to combat misinformation and uphold our role as a reliable source of evidence-based vaccine information. Together with the IACW, we continue to empower families with resources that protect our communities and promote informed, health-positive choices,” stated Silver.  

As we celebrate the 30th anniversary of IACW, we are mindful that the Coalition’s work remains as important as ever. IACW’s priorities for 2024-2026 reflect the ongoing commitment to ensuring equitable access to vaccines, supporting healthcare providers, and responding to emerging health challenges. These priorities include increasing COVID-19, flu, and RSV vaccinations during respiratory seasons, advocating for mobile vaccination efforts, expanding resources for immunizers focused on specific vaccine needs, and distributing multilingual materials for limited English proficiency communities, including new refugees and immigrants. 

In Gratitude and Partnership

To our partners, community members, and supporters—thank you for standing with IACW over the past 30 years. The progress we have made together proves the strength of collaboration and the vital role of vaccines in public health. We look forward to continuing this journey with you, growing stronger and more resilient in the face of new challenges.