Parents Supporting Parents
Parents of people who have an intellectual disability are able, now more than ever, to connect with other family members in their region and across the province. The shared experiences and stories are unique to families. Families support each other in many ways and share information that can help create opportunities and lead to action.
The following links are to some of the groups in the province that encourage that family-to-family connection.
Family Alliance - http://www.family-alliance.com
Family Alliance Ontario is a group of family members who offer their knowledge and experience to help other families. It also provides an opportunity to network with others. Their belief is that all people have abilities, interests and dreams. They feel each person must be supported and encouraged to pursue their personal desires.
The group:
- helps people who have an intellectual disability and families around the province develop support networks
- promotes the inclusion of people who have disabilities into all aspects of community life
- facilitates the meaningful involvement of families and individuals in all levels of decision-making with respect to services and supports
- conducts and compiles research on family disability issues
Individualized Funding Coalition - http://www.individualizedfunding.ca
The Individualized Funding Coalition for Ontario supports the self-determination of persons with disabilities. They believe that all people should have control over decisions concerning where they live, with whom they live, with whom they associate, and how they spend their lives. The Coalition has worked for many years promoting individualized funding – a way for people to have control over the funding they use for supports and services.
Special Services at Home Provincial Coalition - www.ssahcoalition.ca
This coalition of people who have an intellectual disability, families, organizations and non-profit agencies are dedicated to ensuring that families in Ontario receive the support they require from the Special Services at Home (SSAH) Program. This program of the Ontario government provides funding to families caring for a family member with a disability.
The group advocates for any changes needed to the Special Services at Home Program to ensure it meets the needs of families across Ontario.
Integration Action Group for Inclusive Education and Community (Ontario) - www.integration-inclusion.com
This is an action-oriented group of parents, educators, and concerned citizens. They advocate for inclusion, improved attitudes, practices, policies, and laws that promote inclusion in education and the community. They also offer educational workshops for families across the province.
People First Ontario www.peoplefirstontario.com/
People First Ontario is an advocacy group for people who have an intellectual disability. As a group they:
- promote equality for all persons
- assist other people trying to speak up for themselves and making their own decisions
- teach members about the rights, abilities, and strengths of People First of Ontario
