Philly Family Support Projects

System Navigation for Philadelphia Families

The System Navigation Project’s focus will be to help families navigate the Intellectual disability and autism systems of care such as DBHIDS and ODP (Office of Developmental Programs). Through this program, a family with a loved one impacted by Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) will receive support from a Family Navigator who is a peer mentor, an individual who is also a family member of someone impacted by an intellectual and/or developmental disability. The Family Navigator assists families in connecting with much needed resources in their communities, problem solving through challenges the family might be facing, and overcoming barriers to support. Through the Family Navigation Project, families will have the tools and assistance they need to help their loved ones have meaningful and fulfilling lives.

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Trauma Informed Care for Philadelphia Families

The Trauma Informed Care Project will focus on helping families learn more about trauma and how to care for themselves while receiving support to recover from trauma. Families impacted by Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities (I/DD) often experience trauma due in part to the toll of caregiving, adjusting to loved ones’ challenges, frequent staff changes, lack of or barriers to accessing the support and services needed to thrive, and more. Through this project, families will get connected with mental health providers trained in supporting people affected by trauma. Families will also have opportunities to attend a regular support group to learn from one another and be supported by peers and project staffs. Furthermore, wellness workshops will be provided for families to learn simple yet effective techniques to alleviate stress on the mind and body. The Trauma Informed Care Project’s objective is to help families recover from trauma and build the resilience to bounce back stronger and quicker in the future.

This is not a crisis service. In case of emergency, please call 911. Other crisis resources are available at Crisis Resources – Vision For Equality

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Birth-Five Project

Through our Birth-Five Project, we connect caregivers with someone who has walked that same journey. You can get support as you navigate this new world. Resources you and your loved one would need, from where to go for an evaluation or therapies, to how to ask for accommodations at daycares and in preschool, and more. Training to educate you about your child’s rights and development, and how to presume competence, create a full life for your loved one and prepare for the future. Support group meetings where you can connect with other caregivers who “get it” and learn tips and tricks on how to reduce stress and take care of yourself as a caregiver. Dedicated staff who care about your wellbeing are always ready to offer a listening ear.