Tina Orwall Officially Announces Her Candidacy for 33rd House Seat

Award-winning advocate for the homeless and Democratic Party leader Tina Orwall announced today that she will seek the 33rd District House seat being vacated by Rep. Shay Schual-Berke. Tina, 42 and mother of two, has raised her family in the Highline School District and served as president of the Marvista Elementary School PTSA. She was an active member of the Highline Citizens for Schools, working to pass the 2007 Highline School Levy.

“Shay has worked tirelessly for our district over the past ten years,” said Tina, “and I hope to bring that same tireless effort to the position myself.” She added, “I want to work closely with our strong 33rd Democrat leaders serving in the legislature to identify resources and creative solutions to address the growing needs in our area so our community can thrive.”

Tina is a leader in the effort to end homelessness in King County and works for the city of Seattle as a Supportive Housing and Employment Coordinator. She co-chairs a Single Adult Committee under the Ten Year Plan to End Homelessness which is part of a partnership between the city, county, providers and foundations to end homelessness in our area, and received the Advocate of the Year Award from the Statewide Coalition for the Homeless in 2004. Tina has also coordinated efforts to house homeless veterans and was recognized in March 2008 by the Veterans Administration with their Community Partner Award. She has worked as a private consultant on mental health and chemical dependency issues statewide and has received several awards from the Department of Alcohol and Substance Abuse for her leadership since 1992 on improving access and treatment for persons with co-occurring disorders of mental health and addictions.

“Tina has worked wonders in bringing together diverse groups from government, non-profits and the business community to coordinate efforts to help those in need,” said Bill Block, prominent homeless advocate. “She understands that each of us is one step away from needing help, and that by helping others we help ourselves.”

Tina is chair of the 33rd Legislative District Democratic Party organization. For the past 3 years she has also been Co-Chair of the King County Democrats LAC, working with citizens and legislators to advance Democratic priorities in Olympia. In 2006, the King County Democratic Party recognized Tina’s many contributions, honoring her as Democrat of the Year.

“Tina has already demonstrated skills and abilities which make her a formidable candidate and will make her an outstanding legislator,” said Rep. Shay Schual-Berke, MD. “Energetic, intelligent and compassionate, dedicated to democratic values, her experiences working on housing, social services and education will serve the people well. I am enthusiastically supporting her.”

As Representative for the 33rd Legislative District, Tina Orwall hopes to continue to pursue the cause of the homeless, health issues, and education. Tina holds a Master’s Degree in Social Work from the University of Washington. Through her 20-year career in human services and housing, she has built a reputation as a hardworking and passionate advocate. Tina and her family live in Normandy Park.