When you become a parent there is always the underlying thought - will my baby be healthy? Some parents need to face this reality head on when their child is born.
There are experienced people who help these families - it is one of the best kept secrets in our community . . . Arc Midstate.
It is an agency with a range of services that help families with children with developmental disabiltiites - providing advocacy, education for the community about resources and realities, sibsgroup for brothers and sisters of children with special needs, Pilot Parents - parents with like-family situations supporting each other, sessions with high school students on causes of fetal alcohol syndrome, trainings and connections with child care providers, the list goes on . . . sharing knowledge and support related to down syndrome, autism, and aspergers.
With a small staff and volunteer core they accomplish so much and help literally thousands of local people every year. This is one of the most efficient and resourceful programs funded by United Way. Check out this gem.
Thanks Betty. I was just at an Optimist meeting this morning where Cindy Owen spoke. I agree that it may be one of the best kept secrets for the general public, but for those who need it they generally know about it because ARC does such an amazing job networking with other providers as you mentioned. What I appreciated the at the presentation this morning was the consideration for the other siblings. The support groups that they have are amazing.
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