Family Support Program

Family Support Consultant Program
Family support consultants respond to concerns parents and family members have by phone, email, or in person. Our staff members are parents themselves and trained to respond to a variety of needs. We

connect families to a network of community resources

offer a one to one match with other parent volunteers

inform and guide parents about the education and health systems, transition to adult life services, mental health services and more

respond to family needs during early stages of their child’s diagnosis, during the adjustment to the dynamics a child with special needs brings to the family, or at any other time of change, challenge or transition

assist families in preparing for school, Act 264 and other meetings about their child and, in a limited capacity, can attend meetings with families. (see more info)

Developmental Disabilities Program (see DD page)
Vermont Family Network (VFN) provides individuals with developmental disabilities— children, youth, and adults, and the people who support them— up-to-date, accessible information and assistance, and referral to other agencies if needed. Our Developmental Disabilities Specialist assists families and individuals with navigating complex systems of care, answering questions, and connecting them with resources. Our goals are

to provide families and individuals the support they need to advocate for systems change

to bring parents of youth and adults with developmental disabilities together for mutual support and to gain information on issues important to them, such as housing, employment, and healthcare.

Family Funding Program (see info on Funding)
Provides resources directly to parents and families to enhance their wellbeing and knowledge.

Family support funds assist families who self-identify a need related to their child's diagnosis. Uses include equipment, therapies, emergency childcare, camp, or any other need as it relates to the child's diagnosis and is not otherwise covered by insurance or Medicaid.

Conference scholarships funds enable parents to attend conferences relating to their child's disability or special need.

Support group funds help parents with start-up costs of launching a support group in a specific geographic area or by diagnosis. Funding can be used for advertising, speakers, refreshments, or space rental.

Respite funds provide funding to parents through the Prevention Committee of the Children and Family Council for Prevention Programs.

Juvenile Justice Program (See JJ page)
Provides guidance and support to youth with disabilities and their families regarding their legal rights and options for the education, treatment and rehabilitation of youthful offenders. The juvenile justice project
coordinator

works with parents to prevent youth from entering the juvenile justice system and to connect youth with support and services that will enable them to work, go on to college, and be a productive part of their communities

helps to establish links with restorative justice and court diversion programs to increase opportunities for youth to take responsibility for their actions and to decrease the likelihood of re-offending

assists families in preparing for meetings with public defenders and court appearances.

Transition and Youth Leadership (see VFN Transition info)
The Transition and Youth Leadership Program works with teenagers with disabilities to help them move smoothly from high school to work, college, and adult life.