Family Support Network/HOPE provides information, support, and training for families who have children of all ages and with all types of special healthcare needs and disabilities in Alexander, Burke, Caldwell, Catawba, and McDowell Counties.

Ways HOPE can help:

  • Match families with parents who have children with similar disabilities and circumstances

  • Provide information about disabilities and medical conditions

  • Help families find and access resources

  • Coordinate parent support and education groups

  • Offer training on topics of interest for families and professionals

  • Provide one-one assistance to help families become their child’s best advocate

  • Help young people and adults with disabilities become effective self-advocates

  • Promote opportunities for individuals and families to be part of improving resources, services and supports for people with disabilities.

Latino, Hmong and English-speaking staff provide information by phone, email, and in-person. Information packets are available on disability-related topics. You may request information through our contact page or by phone. Training is provided on-line and through group workshops. Staff provide “on the spot” training for families in IFSP and IEP meetings. This helps families apply information they learn to their child’s unique circumstances and provides support for families in situations that can often be intimidating. 

Research indicates that parents who have children with disabilities benefit from the support of other parents. HOPE operates a local network of Parent Mentors who have participated in training in order to provide support for other families who have children with special needs. As parents of children with special needs, HOPE staff have “been there” and offer a caring heart and a helping hand to other families. HOPE also offers opportunities for families to come together for support and education though parent groups and workshops. 

Laws and policies concerning education for students with disabilities are complicated and can be confusing and overwhelming for families.  HOPE staff work closely with families to help families become effective advocates for their children.

The HOPE Family Support Network has been a part of the community since 1981. We have developed relationships and collaborate with many families, agencies, organizations, service providers, and community members to provide information for families and professionals. Hmong, Latino, and English speaking staff help families who have premature infants and children of all ages and with all types of disabilities and special healthcare needs access support, resources and education to help their children grow and develop.

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