Families Helping Families network empowers Louisiana's families with disabilities and special needs resources

On March 20, 2025, the Lafayette Parish School System hosted a Community Resource Forum focused on supporting families with disabilities. The meeting highlighted the vital role of Families Helping Families, a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing free assistance to families navigating disability services in Louisiana.

Families Helping Families operates nine independent centers across the state, each tailored to meet the specific needs of its region. The organization emphasizes peer-to-peer support, education, and outreach, ensuring that families are informed about their rights and available resources. The centers are funded through various state agencies and grants, allowing them to offer services at no cost to families.

A poignant personal story shared during the forum illustrated the organization's impact. A parent recounted her journey with her daughter, who was born prematurely and required special education services. Through Families Helping Families, she learned about available resources that significantly improved her family's situation. This narrative underscored the importance of community support and the organization's mission to empower families facing similar challenges.

The forum also discussed the historical context of disability support in Louisiana, tracing back to a pivotal conference in 1988 that led to the establishment of the Families Helping Families Network. This initiative aimed to provide community-based support, allowing individuals with disabilities to live and work in their communities rather than being institutionalized.

Key programs highlighted included the Louisiana Youth Leadership Forum, which empowers youth with disabilities through leadership training and community engagement, and the Parent to Parent program, which connects families with similar experiences for mutual support.

In conclusion, the Community Resource Forum served as a crucial platform for raising awareness about the resources available to families with disabilities in Lafayette Parish. The ongoing efforts of Families Helping Families and its partnerships with various organizations reflect a commitment to fostering inclusive communities where individuals with disabilities can thrive. As the forum concluded, attendees were encouraged to reach out for assistance and to utilize the wealth of resources available to them.