I am consistently surprised at stories I hear from families who are advocating for their children with special needs...surprised because I can't believe what they HAVEN'T been told. Children with disabilities are protected by state and federal laws that ensure educational support services and social systems supports; however, time & time again, when I ask families about IEP goals or about recieving SSDI, I'm often met with blank stares and silence.
Where are our systems failing in reaching these families and in informing them of their rights and more importantly, of their childrens' rights?
I hope to use this category (Navigating the system of disability services) as a sounding board and message posting where I can share information about how to make sure that your child is getting the supports he/she needs. You do not have to "navigate the system" alone - there are plenty of people, agencies, and systems in place that offer assistance. Easter Seals Southwest Florida is one of those agencies!
This section will be particularly active during our State's legislative session, which runs from January to March. It is my intention to keep you updated on decisions and votes that are pending on the House and Senate floors that can make a huge difference in funding for individuals special needs and their support programs.
For those of you who have family members who were affected by the MedWaiver Teir reassignments last fall, please stay tuned to this blog topic for the latest information and for instructions on what YOU can do to support or defend decisions being made in Tallahassee. Your voices need to be heard! I will also blog on Federal legislation as well, when that information is available.
If you are interested on a particular legislative topic related to disability services, please submit your comments and I will do my best to seek follow-up information.
Posted by: Kameron Partridge
in How Easter Seals can help you on Jul 07, 2009
Tagged in: Untagged
After being in the community for over 60 years, we couldn't be more excited to have the ability to blog to our families, our staff, and our supporters!
This blog is specifically focused on how current programs can meet your families' needs. I will regularly be updating the content of this category to describe program offerings, expansions, and goals, as well as some comments on general "happenings" within the agency.
Easter Seals Southwest Florida is truly a lifelong service provider in our community for indivdiuals with disabilities and their families. We provide early intervention & pediatric therapy services (OT, PT, and Speech/Language therapy) and respite care for our smallest participants, implement an alternative high school program for teens and young adults (VIP Acadmemy), and offer Adult Day services for our more distinguished consumers.
