Family to Family Network

Thanks to the Family to Family Network we were able to advocate well for our son with Down syndrome. We had solid support and clarification of how to hold to our belief that inclusion was still the best for him. We are so grateful for the compassionate care we have received. Thank you!!

I have known F2F for 28 years! F2F has longevity, with at least two of the staff being there that whole time.
They are very visible in our community and at all the resource fairs, highly regarded & recognized statewide for their involvement & success helping individuals & families solve problems & live better lives. They are ALWAYS there, ready to help with accurate information, resources, a kind word, support and they always have a WEALTH of knowledge & ideas. Whether your loved one is school age or over 22, they know about programs and where to seek additional help when needed. Their website is INVALUABLE too! F2F is my first go to when I need assistance and are #1 in my books!!! ☺

At a time where we felt totally lost and hopeless in a broken system Judy Blake helped up get in contact with the help we needed for my nonverbal Autistic son. I shudder to think what would have happened to him and us without her. Words cannot express how grateful we are!

I have been struggling with my daughters mental health and getting services. Judy with family to family network has helped me a lot with getting connected with services to get my daughter some help.

My son has severe autism with many challenges. The wonderful people at Family to Family Network shared information and referred us to highly trained professionals who made life changing improvements in my son's ( and out family's) quality of life. Our family is thankful for Family to Family Network.

Working with Family to Family Network was a very pleasant experience. The call that I received from Mrs. Blake was full of compassion, understanding and care. She listened well and asked relevant questions to my situation. She made me feel heard and not judged. I was provided with helpful resources and encouraged to reach out directly to her if I had any other concerns or questions concerning my matter. I'm thankful to have been connected with Family to Family Network. Thank you all for such a phenomenal program!

VERY RESOURCEFUL AND HELP UNDERSTAND OUR CHILDRENS NEEDS. HOW TO SEEK HELP FOR OUR CHILDREN AND HOW TO BE PREPARED FOR AN ARD MEETING.

I am so incredibly thankful for Family to Family Network, and the support they provided our family as we navigated the SSI application process. Leslie was a wealth of knowledge, and was so incredibly patient to answer all my many questions. The SSI process is so daunting and complex, and having F2F by our side was a huge blessing. Thank you for all you do to help support our families. We couldn't do without you!

Staff members are very resourceful and always willing to guide and set you up for success. I never get tired of attending their parent trainings workshops because it helps me prepare for being the best imaginable advocate for my child as well as other community members that needs my support. Thank you all for all you do F2FN

I was contacted right away and the information was provided to assist in my search for advocate. Many resources provided to better understand the ARD process.

I was trying to find some information for someone else to help a client. I sent a message to Family to Family hoping that there might be something in their resources. This was a great move. I got the name and contact of the exact organization that I needed. This also came with a follow up to reach out again if that wasn't right or not enough. The answered question was so helpful. That extra reach out put this experience over the top. I am grateful that I, along with so many others, are able to have a variety of different supports that are easily accessible.

Navigating benefits without Family to Family is overwhelming. Very grateful for the resource and Leslie is amazing.

After moving from CA to TX with a IDD adult we discovered the stark difference between a state that wants to provide support and a state that grudgingly gives support only because it has to. Our local center that manages services for the state, The Harris Center, was/is not helpful. It felt like the mission statement of The Harris Center could be "knowledge is exclusive and ignorance should be punished" . Family to Family Network helped us understand our options and what we need to do to fulfill our needs. Without F2F I believe we would still be on the hamster wheel. Thank you F2F!!!

As a mother with a special needs child, I struggled understanding and navigating the school ARD process. Everyone had a smile and seemed friendly enough that I felt that my daughter was in good hands. Little by little I was realizing that I needed help. Family to Family Network helped educate me and answered all my questions. I was then able to take that knowledge, apply it and make myself a true member of the team, so that my daughter could receive the services she needed. I was also able to pass the knowledge along to other parents who needed guidance. I refer parents to F2F for further educational needs and feel great about it because I know they are in good hands.

My son was not diagnosed until he was in middle school. I have been associated with this group for many years. Since my son was diagnosed late, trying to get services back then, that were geared toward an older child was tough. I have used F2F for that. I've gone to their seminars. I have gotten lists of lawyers that know how to do special needs legal needs. They have been wonderful to me. And to my friends Lasso have special needs children.

Great organization! They are full of experience & resources - if they don't know or can't help, they can direct you to someone who does. Judy was very accommodating and flexible when I tried to schedule a meeting with her and another gov't agency. Got the help that I needed to get started just before my daughter turned 18.

As a social worker who works with families of children with developmental disabilities, Family To Family Network is one of my go-to referrals. The organization provides excellent support, education and services for families of children and teens and I highly recommend them.

Family to Family does great work in the local community!

F2F has helped me learn how to advocate for my daughter. I also love that there are so many resources that they give and direct your way. I am new to being on the parent side of special education and feel as though I am more comfortable to go into meetings about my daughter! The advocates are also so helpful and only an email away.

I received great assistance from Family to Family.
I was guided on how to help my special-needs child on the transition from High School to College.
The case manager is wonderful. Leslie is very attentive and always answered all of my questions.
At the beginning of the year, I was totally lost on the future of my son; now he is very busy between the programs.
And the most important thing is that he is progressing a lot towards his independence.

Family to Family Network has been my go-to place for ARDs, conferences, adult benefits and more. I appreciate this organization so much for all it has done for my daughter, Nicole, and myself. Navigating benefits, laws, and common problems that will never come up with a typical family has not been a breeze but has not been as nerve wracking as it would have been without Family to Family's help. I suggest this organization to so many people. And we were fortunate to have the ED, Mary Jane Williams, come to talk to a parent group I am a part of. Always so many questions...and here is where I get my answers.

Family to Family is an amazing organization. The providers are knowledgeable and passionate about helping parents navigate the very challenging environment of school accommodations, Medicaid and social security. They helped me to navigate through some pretty confusing challenges and every time I think I have it all figured out, I find another need to reach out to them. Awesome.

Family to Family Network is a wonderful organization to support our community with special needs. At Consolidated Planning Group, we often refer families to them and have great confidence in their ability to direct families to answers, help, and support.

As a nonprofit director I often turn to this organization for resources and referrals. ADDA-SR gets questions from families, educators and mental health professionals seeking a variety of services and programs. Family to Family offers prompt responses with contacts and information to others in our community.

Family to Family is a wonderful organization that has been providing valuable assistance for our family for many years. I have already learned so much from them and if any family with special need children need assistance, I refer them to family to family, because I trust their great knowledge to provide required advocacy.
I sincerely would like to wish all the best success for Ms. Mary jane and Ms. Leslie and the rest of their esteemed colleagues.

MaryJane, Leslie and Judy are SUPERSTARS in our book. They are great listeners and will help you get past those frustrations and move into ACTION! They were able to get us connected with so many tell resources and tools to support us as we seek the best things for our child. We look forward to future events, trainings and helping out any we can to give back and say thanks!! You all are appreciated!!

Leslie and everyone at Family 2 Family network have been tremendous over the years. They provide so much information and advice about Social Security benefits, long-term care planning and getting the most out of public services for our son. I've called them for information, guidance and recommendations at several key decision points in our son's journey. They really know their stuff and are always ready to help! It is so good to talk to other parents who are going through the same things we are. This organization is a *must* for anyone with a special needs child, regardless of the child's age. You are not alone!

Family to Family Network has been a blessing to me and my family. I love the workshops and trainings that I've been able to attend. Without the knowledge that is provided I would be lost. I wish I had help 20 years ago when my oldest daughter was in school because there are so many valuable things I could have used. Everytime I talk with Judy she is always helpful, and enjoys helping. Whenever she isn't personally able to help she always guides me (for my 3yr old) or my daughter to someone that could point us in the right direction.

Family to Family has helped us a lot over the years. I was able to enroll in a Disability Leadership Training course through them. Their program "Grandparents Support" provided a wonderful in person connection when my kids were little that we really needed. We have no family in Houston, and visits with our surrogate grandparents were wonderful treats for both my children. They also provide a great calendar and clearing house for all the local disability events in Houston. Keep up the good work!

I appreciate and value the assistance and support I have received throughout the years from July Blake and Mary Jane Williams with Family to Family Network. When I have questions about resources in the community, they are always ready to assist and respond in a timely manner with resources. Judy Blake and Mary Jane Williams keep us in the loop of community events and trainings. I have had the opportunity to attend Mary Jane’s informative training. Thank you, Judy and Mary Jane for everything that you do.

Family to Family Network, their leadership and staff, for many years continues to provide immediate support to our family when questions come up around caring for a child with special needs. From ideas for summer transition programs to medicaid waivers, residential housing, SSI, and much much more - they relieve the anxiety around not understanding how to best help your child. We are truly grateful for the many resources and expertise they continue to bring to our community. It is a top notch organization with caring, devoted staff members. THANK YOU F2F !!!

Hello,

I would like to share my experience working with Family to Family Network as a parent of an adult daughter with intellectual challenges who moved to Houston from Ohio at the start of the pandemic.

After searching for resources in 2020, I was referred to Judy Blake at Family to Family and I have been thrilled with their services, ever since. The staff at Family to Family is a cohesive team providing genuine support and care for families.

Judy Blake was very welcoming and got my daughter immediately signed up with their virtual lunchtime webinar series. She introduced us to so many people and provided a plethora of additional resources. In addition, they provide support services for parents of children with
special needs from preschool through adulthood!

Inger Clark leaves no stone unturned when it comes to providing important webinar topics that are answers to the questions parents are asking. She keeps you in-the-know from signup through gentle reminders leading up to the webinars.

Mary Jane Williams keeps you up-to-date with calendar activities and important announcements, including seats to Astros games.

At a time when everyone was socially distant and secluded, we got more connected thanks to Family to Family Network. They were an answer to prayer!

Grace & Peace,
Mabel Griar

Cant thank them enough. They are blessing to families in need like us. I learnt lot of things from Judy and Leslie which is making a big difference in this tough journey. I look forward to their new session.

Hello,
It was time for me to revise my Will. I have two "special needs" nephews and I did not know where to turn for advice on Special Needs and appropriate attorneys. Judy Blake helped me very much. She gave me information on various site to explore on the internet. Not only did she guide me to special needs attorneys, I learned much information about Special Needs resources. Judy was most generous with her time and she was very nice and understanding.
Donna

F2F has always been a great resource for any issues involving special-needs...be it info anout special education, SSI, therapies, or just plain support and a wealth of and reliable source of information...especially for those parents of newly diagnosed or even the most complex cases.

Staff has been extremely helpful, friendly and reliable.

Thank u F2F..
Gina Mouser - mom to 24 year old non-verbal son with autism

Parenting a child with a disability and figuring out the various services/systems (special education, medicaid, medicare, social security, etc) is DAUNTING! But Family to Family Network is staffed by knowledgeable experts with lived experience...and their encouragement to live a life in spite of disability is a message too few hear and NEED TO HEAR in this world! They are THE BEST.

Mary Jane Williams at Family2Family is a wealth of knowledge and is always happy to share with others! For the past several years, she has provided training for families who participate in our after school program by explaining to them the resources available and how to get signed up. She is our go-to referral when parents have questions and need help with navigating systems that can be overwhelming. Family2Family is an amazing resource for our community!

This group has helped our family navigate the complex world of parenting a child with disabilities. They are very knowledgeable and experienced in many areas such as legal issues, educational and social. This group has help many families over the course of their existence.

I help run a local autism nonprofit and Family to Family has been an invaluable resource to us for our families. Judy Blake especially has been a blessing to so many people! Thank you for always being there and for all you do. Dr. Lisa Graham-Garza

Amazing non profit with a wealth of information. I have learned so much and would recommend everyone on this journey to this organization. Thank you

I referred Family to Family Network to a friend and Judy Blake helped more than I could have imagined. Her network is valuable and trusted. She takes the time to listen. We appreciate her expertise, guidance and relationships. She does not give up.

Working with Family to Family Network far exceeded our expectations. Judy Blake is wonderful and goes above and beyond.
She is such a special individual, hardworking and empathetic. Although she is extremely busy, she manages to find time to get back to us and provide us with detailed results. We are grateful for her and her team.

I can say without a doubt that anyone I've shared F2F with has had a stellar experience and goes on to refer this organization with others. They seek the best way to help clients and families achieve positive outcomes. They are professional and compassionate.

Family to Family Network provides a wealth of resources, information and training. Both my son and I have been through their excellent advocacy training program. For years, they have been the organization we have turned to for questions regarding our Medicaid waiver program, employment support services, community resources, social security issues. They have so much experience in so many areas, in addition to the invaluable training for parents of children in the special educational system. I have referred many people to them through the years. They are an excellent organization providing much needed guidance to families of children with disabilities!

Family to family is the best support I know of in Texas ! The staff is always available to answer my questions related to special education or what supports are available for my child and for my friends who have a family member with a disability! The staff is highly trained and knowledgeable and is always quick to answer a question whether it’s through email or over the phone. I have referred many friends to them over the years and each friend has said “family to family was such a lifesaver!” They have been especially helpful in informing families of their rights to an inclusive education, and the REED and IEP process.

The staff are always willing to help and make a huge difference in lives if individual with disabilities. They have changed to course I’d my sons life through their training, support and advocacy!

Family to Family is a great resource for families who are trying to navigate the ARD/IEP planning process. Information, resources, and personal experiences shared empower families to control the direction of their child's education and become an active and contributing member of the ARD/IEP team. Texas Project First, a website developed by F2F for families is an information packed resource - one referenced often.

Family to Family has been a tremendous help to our family. As our needs have changed as kids grew into adults F2F continued to help with education, resources and referrals to other organizations to assist with transition to employment and independent living. Maryjane Williams and Judy Blake have gone out of their way to help me personally and also help others through involvement in autism support groups and other organization. The conferences and trainings are particularly helpful. A great organization making a big difference!

F2F is a great resource! I have participated in a number of workshops and webinars that they host and put on. I work FT and many are available through Zoom which is a huge benefit to getting the information I need without having to take time off.

Navigating the world of benefits available to people with special needs is daunting. Family to Family was very helpful answering my questions and guiding me through the process. The lady that helped me was patient and gracious, and her guidance will impact my son for the rest of his life.

Family 2 Family is a fantastic organization who has helped my family navigate so many issues for my son. From school to adult transition, employment, Medicaid, SSI, Medicare, SSDI, future planning, on and on. They are a wonderful. dedicated group of parents themselves with a true understanding of what it is to have a child with disabilities. I absolutely give them a 5 star rating and all of my thanks.

I had a problem with my special needs son's school. The school was not providing the homebound services agreed thru an ARD meeting. Leslie L. was able to guided me with the right information.
I followed what she suggested me to do. After following her advised the school provided me with a teacher for my son and also the school gave me compensatory services for the missing time he had.
Thank you Leslie for the great job you do

Lelsie was very nice over the phone. The few mins we were talking she provided so much good information to help me with child! Thank you Leslie!

We needed help with information for my daughter’s social security payment. Leslie was awesome and even told me about a program I hadn’t asked out. I can’t say enough good things!

Family to Family Network provides an INVALUABLE resource to families with children/adults with special needs. There is such a maze to try to maneuver through. They are thoughtful, resourceful, and dedicated to serving the needs of their community in their endeavor (and success) in providing information, resources, training, and so much more. Our family has asked for and received so much of the above from these self-less individuals to help our son.
We have provided financial resources to help them so that they may continue to do the above. Our giving is not near enough. ****They need financial resources from our community and Granting organizations that have the funds available to help Family to Family Network continue to be the non-profit special education experts and deliverers of information that is is so critical for our children.
They are always one of my first calls and/or emails when a question arises.
Can't thank them enough for all they do! Bless y'all!

*Looking at the individual and their abilities*

Family to Family is a blessing to all parents with children requiring special needs. Most parents are overwhelmed with navigating the school system and governmental agencies to obtain the specialized services their special needs child deserves and is entitled to. Believe me, all of us as parents become frustrated with the "System". Family to Family has provided excellent support and advice over the years to my wife and I to help us understand what agencies and services our daughter was eligible for throughout her life from birth to adulthood.

Family to Family support personnel helped us learn how to be advocates for our daughter to ensure she is not passed over for the services she needs to help develop her educational and social skills. I have always felt that Family to Family personnel understand our parental frustrations and will do what is in the best interest of our special needs child and in our best interests as parents. Definitely contact F2F and share your current situation!

I highly recommend Family to Family Network for all parents of special needs children as a consultative support network. They have made a positive difference in the life of our daughter and do the same for so many parents who enlist their support. Contact them! You have nothing to lose and so much to gain for your child!!!

Our family has been helped many times over the years by Family To Family Network. They have an abundance of resources at their fingertips and are extremely knowledgeable. Leslie Lawson always goes above and beyond to make sure we have all the information we need to make informed decisions for our daughter and her care. This organization is so essential to parents who often feel hopeless and alone in navigating life with their special needs child. It can be difficult to find someone to give you straight answers and point you in the right direction. The best thing about F2F is that most of the employees are also parent of special needs children or young adults. They speak from first hand experience!

I am always grateful to partner with Family to Family Network, go to their workshops/training, and learn from everyone within the organization. The wealth of knowledge between Mary Jane and Judy amazes me. I know when ever I encounter a barrier, I can always get alternative solutions from Family to Family Network. Thank you!

Family to Family was so wonderful in helping us to better understand the ARD process and be able to advocate for our daughter. It is so complicated and they directed and assisted us in steps to take and questions to ask we wouldn't have even known to ask. We are so grateful to have both the site and people as a resource!

Motivated non-profit; really want to help families. Really appreciate the annual conference and resource fair they hold.

Called family to family and someone took my question and had imfomation about it soon, they did not just send me the answer to my question but a lot of other material a did not know, i'm very gratefull for this organization , thank you

Family to Family Network has been a valuable resource for us. We use them often to help us with questions relating to school, transition to adulthood, and guidance about medical needs for our son who has mild autism and is now in Junior High.

We appreciate that our concerns are heard by people who can relate to our needs because they also have children/family members with similar needs, and respond to phone calls/emails in a professional and respectful way.

Family to Family Network is a place we count on to help us make life decisions for our son with confidence. We appreciate the level of care and importance Family to Family Network people have given to us over and over.

Antonia Miranda

I am a case manager with the Children and Pregnant Women Program. Family to Family is the organization I use most often when I need information/resources to help the families I work with. I also make referrals to the organization as an excellent resource for families who have a love one with a disability. It's wonderful to have an organization that helps parents navigate and understand Texas' complex medical system for those with disabilities. Thanks for all you do. B. Love LCSW

F2F is friendly and professional. They have provided me with their time and patience as well as their wealth of knowledge on special education, legal issues, guardianship, and medical/Medicaid/Medicaid waiver support. Any time that I am stumped and I know I can turn to F2F for their help. THANK YOU!

Family to Family does so much to support people with disabilities and families of people with disabilities living in the Houston area! I have referred people to them for resources, information, advice, and help with advocacy. They even partnered with others to help people impacted by Harvey. While all of these obviously make a huge difference in the lives of people in that area of the state, they also offer advocacy training that increases the impact made of the services and systems across the state.

Family to Family has a perspective on family involvement and engagement that is comforting to families. I attended a conference and heard Mary Jane talk to educators about the very real side of what parents are going through. My doctoral dissertation topic is family involvement in a transition-focused education and her presentation stopped me hard. A wrench was thrown into my prospectus that I was not expecting. Family to Family has valuable information for families, educators, and community members alike.

Great organization with knowledgeable, friendly staff!!

We are new to Texas and Family to Family Network helped to connect us with resources in our area and advised us on educational options for our child with special needs. We really appreciate their help and we plan to reach out in the future once we are more established. They are a great resource for families who have children with special needs!

I was assisted in finding summer camps for my autistic son for the summer. They emailed me a list of organizations that offered the care I was seeking. I am so thankful for what they do! And.....there's no charge!

Family to Family Network educational services and guidance saved my grandsons academic career and future. They are a wealth of information, and resources training you and directing you to find accurate information to properly advocate for your childs specific individual needs, related services, and legal rights.

They have empowered me with the knowledge and confidence needed to navigate the convoluted and complicated educational system and special education services in Texas. There is no doubt, without the years of knowledge, experience, guidance, and support of Family to Family Network and Leslie Lawson, my grandson would not be receiving the services needed to be successful in his academic career and future.

Family to Family Network are in fact, a part of my grandson and our Family support team. I look forward to an ongoing relationship and partnership to continue to acquire accurate knowledge and training to advocate for my grandsons individual needs and ensure the educational agencies serving him are in compliance with providing a FAPE in all areas of need in the LRE; as well as all State (TEA) and Federal Educational (DOE) Laws.

These Children in need are the Children of our Communities Future. They aren't going away. Would it not be wise and behoove all parties at stake to be proactive to advocate and provide the needed services now, vs being saddly reactive to costly damage control measures? After all, aren't our tax payers funding these services. Shouldn't our Government Leaders ensure good stewardship of our financial contributions and allocation of fundings for our childrens education. We have infact paid forward for this, its not a hand out. Our childrens educational and academic futures are funded and provided for and services should not be withheld or denied.

Please, dont be discouraged or ever give up, for if you do we will have all lost greatly.

Thank you, Family to Family Network and Leslie Lawson for all you do for our Family and Community.

You are Super Hereos in saving the academic lives of these Children and they are worthy! I Pray grants and funding continue to be provided so that you may continue "to fight the good fight", through education and empowering accurate knowledge to Families for Children in need throughout Texas.

Family to Family Network has provided me with such valuable information helping me navigate the school special education process for my son and our family. Whenever I have a question about best practices or how to understand all of the paperwork that goes along with special education, the people at Family to Family are patient and kind and helpful. They have encouraged me to speak up and advocate for my son and for making changes happen at the school, school district, and state level for special education. Thank you Family to Family Network!

I am incredibly happy and blessed to have such an amazing organization to help us maneuver the intricacies that comes with having a child with a disability.

Family to Family Network is an amazing resource for families, professionals, and the whole community. Family to Family empowers with information, inspires with insight, and builds the capacity and compassion of our community through education, advocacy, and relationship-building. As an educator and advocate, I learn from and refer families to Family to Family. The professionals and lay leaders are extraordinary, and they help everyone reach the greatest potential.

Very helpful in connecting me with resources! Each member of the Family to family network truly serves all communities ! They will educate, inform and advocate for you and your family .

Connecting with Family to Family Network was a wonderful experience For me and my Family! I really appreciate their help.
Special Thanks to Dear Judy Blake for her great advises and Supports. She is a good friend of me and my family now. Even I know she has a very busy schedule but she never hesitate to help. I never met such amazing person in my life! She is always ready to help and support families. I wish her all the Best in her life. I believe she is truly a right and perfect person for her job in Family to Family Network.

Spoke with super compassionate, knowledgeable,and helpful folks on the phone about resources I was looking for to help my son. No judgment when you reach out and talk about your family!
They understand!

Our family moved to United States recently. Our child has Autism and non verbal. Had it not Family To Family Netwirk, it would have been hard for me to get the Special education services for my son in a shortest possible time. The education system here was quite new for me and had no idea how I would start and where to turn for my son's schooling and the services he needed and what schools have better Autism programs. I have been in touch with Family to Family through emails before moving here. Leslie Lawson of F2F is an awesome person. She guided me throughout and was always there whenever I needed her help. Overall I am happy with the services provided by F2F and very thankful to Leslie.

Family to Family Network is a wonderful nonprofit organization committed to educating families on how best to advocate for their special needs children as well as teaching self-advocacy skills for older Special Needs students. I am learning so much from their classes and appreciate everything this organization does!!!

My son, Matthew, is on the autism spectrum and is almost 14. Family to Family Network offers many events and classes to many families. I would highly recommend them because they have been a blessing to us for many years.

I was having a terrible time with the staff at my sons school and was feeling helpless trying to find a way to make things change. A friend recommended I call f2f and I’m so glad she did! They gave me the most helpful advice and told me everything I needed to say to the staff to get changes made, and it worked! I cannot express how truly grateful I am for their help!

Leslie was so very helpful in helping me get information on lawyers for Guardianship. She sent me a lot of helpful links and took the time to answer my questions. I am very thankful for all y’all do for the Autism community!

Family to Family Network allows me to not be alone in my journey to support my adult Asperger's child. Family to Family Network connected me to available resources that helped my 24 year son to feel good about himself and be part of our community. At Family to Family Network I learned about a program that will facilitate my son to gain employment, dignity, and self respect. I thank this organization from the bottom of my heart.

Family 2 Family has been an avenue for me to meet parents of children living with disabilities. Those relationships have been proven to be helpful in dealing with issues at School and social settings. These relationships have grown into friendships that are invaluable.

Hey I have son his name is tyshawn and he can't walk or talk he gets feed through a feeding tube and it's hard trying to get him around with no car I'm a single parent just trying to make things better for us no help from my family.

This group was an amazing resource of help and support for the special needs community during and after Hurricane Harvey. There was a lot of help and donations pouring into our area but Family-to-Family made certain that our children and families with special needs were not forgotten! God Bless them

Received the best help from Leslie Lawson at F2F. They have been readily available for me and my son's need.

This is an amazing organization that helps and supports parents and kids to bring to a another higher level. My family had attended a lot of classes arranged free of cost by them that helped my family to understand better of the schools and benefits in Texas. Mary and Judy went out of their way to help us a lot. Thanks a lot to them and my salute to their dedicated services.

Ravi, Valli, Dhevi and Hari

As a professional serving adults with disabilities after they transition from school, I am thankful for Family to Family for providing trainings and resources.

Family To Family is a valuable resource for my family! I am so thankful for the volunteers who share their stories and train and guide us parents on this journey of parenting a child with special needs. I tell so many parents about this great organization and how they want to help us parents navigate the school years and transition to adulthood.
-Parent

Family to family has made me feel welcome and supported. So many times I felt alone in my journey trying to know how I can help my son reach his goal in life. Now I know I am not alone. Having the opportunity to meet so many other mom's and see what they gave done to support their children with disabilities, has inspired me to continue and never give up. Thank you Family to Family for giving me hope and showing me it's possible to make a difference. All the training you provide has open my eyes. Thank you for your support to the communityand everything you do.

I had the questions for my son's ARD meeting and called Family to family network. They helped me clear the issue, emailed me the sample letters. It is great help for me to advocate for my son.

My son moved to foreign country at age of 3, grew up there, just came back recently. He is 20 years old. He just got admitted to school, but the evaluation takes time, he won't be able to go to school until fall. We do not know what is the next and what we do can now. The presenter's personal experience game me a clear picture where to start and what we can do and where to find help. The seminar is very informative and helpful for us. Thank you very much!

Today's placement class from Ms. Mary Jane is very helpful, it helps me to understand the procedure to decide placement, i am looking forward to joining your future class!

Thanks and Best Regards,
Jenny

Family to Family Network provides much needed support for us, parents and caregivers, navigating this marathon life of parenting a child with special needs. I am always greeted with a warm welcome and a listening ear. Their own personal experiences make the training sessions very informative and helpful as I navigate transition planning for my 15 year old daughter. Many thanks to these wonderful people!!

It is a great way to connect with other families and share ideas. I liked how professional the presentation was. I am looking forward to registering for more classes.

Great resource for navigating education in public schools for our special needs child.

This group is wonderful. Always providing information and opportunities for parents to learn about their child's uniqueness or disability. Extremely helpful with answers to your questions. Thank you F2F Network!

They are patient and provide a wealth of resources. I wish I had called them years ago.

When I was completely lost and had no idea to help my family with our special needs, Family to Family was able to provide me with resources and advice. I can't say enough great things about the people and services there.

I contacted Family To Family on behalf of a family in need. Leslie Lawson provided great resources and options for the family to consider. Family To Family can always be counted on to help families and their children with disabilities. They have been supporting families for many years.

Since the moment I moved to Houston, Leslie had been great help for me in identifying resources . I could trace Autism resources, schools information and attorney for guardianship easily with their help.

It was an outstanding experience! Leslie got back to me and answered all of my questions to the fullest within the hour. In addition, she sent a follow up e-mail with links to various community resources. She asked me to call back with any question after reviewing it. They are friendly, extremely knowledgeable, and very eager to help! I have nothing, but positive things to say about this organization.

Our family has a precious member who is a low functioning autistic child. As he approaches young adulthood, we began due diligence and therein connected with Family to Family Network. The contact was compassionate, an incredible listener and was also parenting an adult child with autism.

We learned about certain options which lead us to additional contacts. Through this research, we became aware of places within Texas that may be suitable for channeling energy and proper academic education environments to help our loved one excel in his world. It was the answer to many heart-felt conversations and prayers.

The staff at Family to Family Network have been extremely helpful to me in navigating the special education system in Texas. I have attended many of their conferences as well and the knowledge I have gained has helped me be a better advocate for my son and for others with disabilities. I am especially thankful for their strong belief in person centered thinking and valuing each person. Their guidance has changed the course of my son's future !

Family to Family Network is by far the BEST resource for current and accurate information on all things relating to disability. I have depended on them to learn from the time my son was a toddler, and he is now an adult. The workshops on how to be a POSITIVE advocate for your child is priceless. Learning the best ways to PARTNER with your school is essential and they offer so many workshops from ARD info and legislative issues and beyond. I have called them so many times with a question and they either know the answer immediately, or work to find out! They are so knowledgable about other resources for referral as well. My child had an awesome INCLUSIVE public school experience that I credit to the things I learned from F2F. I am so grateful for this wonderful organization that works tirelessly to improve the lives of those with disabilities.

Great organization with an excellent staff that is very helpful. The best organization to get support with the special education process and referrals to community resources.

Without the help from Family to Family Network, I would not have been able to navigate the special education maze and be an advocate for my son. Now at 15, he is a vital part of his own education AND his community, thanks to the information and support from F2F.

It is nice to find great people that understand your situation and that can Guide you every time.
Thanks,
Pilar Hixson

Consistent. Connected. Caring. Competent. Creative. Collaborative. Credible. Crucial!
Family to Family Network is all of these and that much more. . Making a difference for children and adults with disabilities and their families!

F2F is the best resource for special needs information. My family has benefitted from F2F Network for nearly 15 years. The staff is helpful, kind and goes the extra mile for everyone.

I am very grateful for Family to Family Network. I learned so much from their workshops and the one on one support that I received from them, when I needed some direction in working with my son's school. I know that when I need information on a topic, I can just call and they will provide me with the resources and information that I need. The ladies are wonderful! We would not be where we are without their help.

I love this non profit helping children is the best we can do for our future .....as while as my non profit www.gotchild.com helping children from dying in hot cars ....contact us

Thirteen years ago, when I adopted my son, Family to Family was one of the first organization I received resources and assistance from. The workshops I attended were very helpful in learning about all disabilities. My son has multiple disabilities and they assisted me in putting my priorities in order to get him the help I needed for him.

The most important aspect about Family to Family is that they are a group of individuals who guide and show you what to do, but they allow you to learn and do it yourself. The best training and advise I have received for myself and my son. Thank you Family to Family for your support but also for the support you give others.

Family to Family is one of the greatest agencies that offer support for families who need assistance. They offer great programs and activities for all. I have worked with them and my clients have benefited enormously. Thanks Family to Family!!!

Family to Family helped tremendously in changing the treatment of Life Skills students in my school
district. The Director helped me personally in so many ways. She helped me write and substantiate
my objections to then current school practices. More importantly, with the help of the TEA, she helped
change them for future students in the District. This organization is wonderful!

Family to Family Network has been such a valuable resource for our family! Through F2F, I've learned so much about other resources available to help us with our special-needs child! The folks at F2F have been so generous with their time, and really "plugged me in" so that I could get that support I need to be an advocate for my girl. Because of F2F, she's gone to the rodeo, and I've made connections, and she's at the best possible school for her.

Family to Family has been such a blesing to our family! When we realized the amount of help we would need with our child, it was fortunate I came across this organization. They provide many opportunities for special needs children (rodeo, sports, parties, attending professional games) where they can just be kids, and at the same time, for parents to connect. They also provide assistance with school issues and have a vast amount of experience. I've even received some help/ideas for preparing our wills and getting my son a plan......which is a huge relief!

The best thing about them is that it's not "can/can't," but "how are we going to," which is how I like to approach things, and they are so positive and good listeners.

Family to Family provides useful information for a myriad of needs for disabled persons and their families in our community. The staff is always available, friendly, dedicated and results-oriented. We in the Houston area are blessed to have such a gem of an organization!

Family to family has ben a godsend to my family when my kids were diagnosed to be on the autism spectrum. They were full of information where to go, best places, people, resources, and I met the most wonderful friends.

Family to Family was a great source of information and encouragement as we fought for our daughter's inclusion in regular classes in the 90's and the new millennium . Their sponsored conferences and workshops included easy to understand sessions with dynamic speakers. Then, 20 years later we were back on their doorstep looking for advice for our granddaughter...their information and referral lists were current and extremely beneficial. We have been sending parents to this amazing organization for years

Family to family helps many parents of children with special needs learn about the resources in our area.
As a parent of a child with autism and another child who has learning disabilities I consider them a valuable resource.

Family To Family Network is a wealth of information and is located conveniently near our therapy center. I have two sons with special needs that have attended many events through F2F. They always answer questions too!

As parents with a son with special needs, my husband and I are grateful to have access to a list of timely workshops and other events. It already is difficult to navigate our array of appointments, educational services and other areas; it would be impossible to access the websites of all the organizations to find what is beneficial to us.

The Family to Family Network is the go-to resource not only for parents, but also for professionals in the field of disabilities.

Loretta@lzream.org

The information that I learned in the first two days with family to family network, has been a life changer for my family. I was infused with a wealth of information on many subjects, my only hope is that I have learned and retained enough information , so that I too can be of help to other families in my community who are as lost as I was when I first walked into the family to family training class room. There is a quote that comes to mind when I think of all that Family to Family network and their associates have done for my family and myself, It reads something like this "together we can make a difference." I hope I have that one piece of information that will make the difference in some child, or adult with a disability's life in such a way that it will be changed for the better for a lifetime. Thank you all for everything you've done to bring about such a positive change in the life of my family.

F2F is a great resource for parents and professionals. I really appreciate the updates and resources that are constantly being provided. I am thankful for such a great service.

F2F is a wonderful organization with full of resources and supports . I'm blessed that I have found F2F. The day I've talked to F2F is the day my family found another door with hope. Especially, people work there are so down-to-earth for helping and encouraging people that they have never met.

Family To Family Network has been a lifesaver to our family. Having a child with a genetic disorder that causes health issues and intellectual disabilities has thrown us into a whole new world where we felt lost, overwhelmed, and alone. F2F has provided support, connected me with other parents, taught me how to get the services my daughter needs, and given us opportunities that our entire family can enjoy. Thank you!!

Family to Family helps by faithfully keeping us abreast of the latest news and events that happen in the world of special education. Thanks!

F2F is one of the best Houston nonprofits to help families like mine who are struggling to navigate the public school special education maze. The staff is dedicated, caring, and speaking from personal experiences which is invaluable. F2F offers informative training seminars and conferences and their resource fair is one not to be missed!

Family to Family is truly a blessing to families with children with disabilities. When we first found out our son had autism and were not sure that the school was providing the services need, I called them. They guided me according to the laws of IDEA and I was able to ensure that my son was receiving the speech therapy that was in his IEP. If your willing to invest the time and take advantage of their training, then you would be ensuring that your child has the best chance of being provided a free and appropriate public education.

Family to Family Network has helped me truly understand the Special Education process and what my rights are as a parent. The knowledge I have gained from working with Family to Family has given me the power to make informed decisions regarding my child.

There are not many places in Houston who support Special Needs children/familes that provide the time, knowledge and resources while genuinely caring like Family 2 Family. Whenever I am unsure of something going on with my daughter whether it has to do with her IEP, Accomodations, Modifications, etc they are they to help and I can always count on them to speak with me so I can discuss what I can do and what needs to be done. They are very informative and everytime I talk with someone there I learn something new I didn't before.

Family to family is a wonderful organization...they ladies who work there have helped me so much...with information, tips, education, and in general they have been a great support for my family and myself...I have 2 boys on the spectrum therefore I feel I have to educate myself to stay focus....F2F does a great job at supporting parent and caregivers...GREAT JOB

Family2Family the best sounding board available to a parent with special needs children. Any concern that I have about how to approach an issue with an IEP or at an ARD, they have at least four or five resources for me to consider and lots of advice to offer. Their experience and willingness to share their time with me has truly had a positive impact on the services and education received by our special needs child. Also, the conferences they organize are streamlined and pertinent to the special needs community in our area.

As a professional, I rely on Family to Family digest to keep up to date with trainings for myself and events/resources for the families I serve. When I am stumped on a problem related to children with special needs or special education, Family to Family is one of the first sites I check.

Family To Family always help us to improve our son's Iep goals.
He is only reading because we learned from them how to ask for a reading program. Thank you!

I learned about Family2Family from my niece. I know from my great nephew's care and opportunities in the Katy, Texas, area, that this organization is all about service. Family2Family serves parents, children, other family members, and also the public; this nonprofit enables all to understand and move forward with knowledge about available resources. People NEED Family2Family

Many kudos to Family2Family! Keep up this great work!

Family 2 Family is a unique resource available to families unlike any other organization. They have identified a variety of needs for families of children with disabilities across a wide variety of ages and ability levels, and have developed and provided training and support to address each. F2F is an organization that I routinely consult with for needed information. They have a high degree of expertise and are always able to assist or point me towards additional resources. I commonly refer parents to F2F.

F2F is a fabulous resource for families AND other professionals. I am new to the Houston area and recently attended a talk by Mary Jane. She is a dynamic speaker and gave a very helpful talk. I've been in the field for a long time, so there's not much that I haven't heard, but she managed to present a new and interesting topic. I will use her insights time and time again. Thank you for being such a champion in our field!

This has been an awesome resource for much needed information. They have also been able to provide us with special event vouchers to help my child participate on events that he would otherwise not be able to currently attend. Very happy with this service :)

A Family to Family Network workshop was my first introduction to IDEA. Not only was the presentation very informative, but during that one meeting I met members of their organization who have helped me numerous times with education issues regarding my special needs son. They are an essential resource for parents of special needs children who attend public schools in this community. The staff of Family to Family Network have expertise that can only be gained through years of experience and lots of effort on their part in working to understand IDEA, as well as the state and other resources available to families. Through their efforts the educational opportunities for many special needs children in our area have been significantly improved.

Family to Family has been providing a high quality variety of needed services in the Houston area for over a decade. They were one of the first resources that I turned to for help with my son with autism when he was first Dx'd 11 years ago. Over the years I have used them in variety of ways: attending events when my kids were young; going through the Disability Leadership training; getting spot advice when I was in a pinch with the school; being matched to an older couple through the Family Friends program (no longer funded) and networking with other families. Now they produce the best special needs monthly calendar in the city of Houston-- I regularly forward it to professionals who are looking for resources for their client families. I also regularly forward the website for Texas Project First--the only website for parents written by parents. They will make sure any of funding is put to excellent use in direct service of families who need help.

Family 2 Family Network has provided me with the power of knowledge. I understand my child's academic rights thanks to trainings, conferences and seminars that were sponsored by Family 2 Family Network. I also reference the Texas Project FIRST website to answer any of my further questions. I am proud to say that I am a Parent Advocate for my two girls and I always try to help others (the best to my knowledge) by educating new parents of children with disabilities. I have Family 2 Family Network to thank for making me a better and stronger person for my children.

Family to Family has provided me and my community with a plethora of helpful information and resources. I look forward to attending their workshops and annual Special Education Parent & Resource Fair. Their willness to provide assistance at low or no cost to parents struggling with issues related to having a child/love-one with a disability is key.

I have a daughter with special needs and I got such a great help when I was going thru a very difficult time with my daughter’s school.
Family to Family organization helped me by:
- Listening attentively to my problems and concerns
- Providing great guidance on steps to follow and options that I had at the time
- Putting me in contact with other people that could help.
Many thanks!!!!

Family to Family Network has been a life saver!! I have to children with disabilities and I found about this organization about 14 years ago. The knowledge, experience, support, training, help, friendships, understanding, etc.... I can not explain in words. It is invaluable!!! Thanks in part to this organization and what I have learned from them my children have a bright future in front of them! I have attended parents training's, workshops, social meetings, I know how to do a Portfolio, I know how to advocate, I feel strong thanks to them. They have always helped me when I have called them with questions. My family participated in the Family Friend Program. This organization is the BEST in Houston. My children disabilities are not the same and any other organization specializes in a certain disability, this is also what makes F2F unique! I will always be grateful for all their help and support thought out so many year. Thanks F2F!!!. Angeles

I started as a volunteer about 5 years ago. Great training and great people = Great Orginazation!!! I have personally gained so much from volunteering and being a Donor for F2F. I feel very blessed to be a part of this group and I tout their achievements every chance I get!

Family to Family Network has been my lifeline to accessing the support and information I need for my son with Down Syndrome. When my son was three, I attended his first ARD meeting at the school – the experience was so overwhelming, I left in tears. Soon afterwards, I found Family to Family Network and gained the tools and confidence I needed to successfully navigate the complex special education system and advocate for my child. That was 18 years ago, and I will attend his exit ARD from high school next week and prepare for graduation! I can honestly say that because of the guidance and information I received from F2F, I have been able to make informed decisions about my child’s educational programming that have enabled him to reach his potential. Today I continue to get help from F2F in figuring out his options for the future – which, thanks to all I have learned from F2F, will include living and working in the community. I know that I join so many other families who have benefitted from the free services they have received from F2F to build brighter futures for their children with disabilities.

Family to Family Network abruptly cancelled the Family Friends program as of November 1, 2010 so it no longer provides any respite for families and can no longer claim any credit for the reported 1800 hours of respite care or 540 hours of volunteer time. As a result, the organization now serves only the informational needs of parents who have one or more children with a disability. Family to Family Network no longer has any interest in or capability of providing one on one mentoring relationships. The former Family Friends program director is looking for a new sponsoring 501(c)(3) organization to serve the 48 plus families currently matched with their family volunteer.

I have been involved with F2F since 1994. They do a great job of providing support to families with children who have disabilities all over Houston and beyond. F2F helps by providing information that is relevant to parents of kids with disabilities and by training them for the challenges they will face raising a child with disabilities. They are experts in the area of education and our family has personally benefitted from their advice. Recently, F2F has been developing training programs for families with adult with disabilities, so that F2F staff can continue to provide services as children with disabilities grow into adults. F2F is very good at what they do and are very encouraging to parents. Their services are invaluable.

It is very easy to become overwhelmed and frustrated when trying to find help raising a child with disabilities. The best part, for my family, about Family to Family Network, is being able to speak with other parents who have walked in our shoes. Their own personal experiences and advice they shared with us have been so valuable. We have learned the importance of planning ahead and visualizing what the future will look like for our son and then showing us the steps it takes to get there.

F2F newsletter serves as a lifeline for us. I look forward to receiving it to find out what opportunities are available in our area. As the parents of an autistic individual, we are always searching to gain more knowledge to enable him to reach his full potential. My only conpliant is I wish we had had it sooner.

Family to Family has always been a lifeline to our family. Whenever we have a question, someone is there to help us. Family Friends has been a great program, matching a volunteer who would come spend time with not only our son with autism, but she also made sure to share her time wtih our two other kids as well. The office staff are always friendly and eager to help, and they are all a tremendous source of valuable information!

When I first found F2F, my son was 2 years old and I felt lost. After attending meetings, and meeting other mothers who have children with disabilities, I felt empowered. I learned what I needed to know to have my child included in a regular classroom and receive the services he needed. He is now 16 and a successful high school student in pre-AP classes. If I had listened to my school district when he was 3, he would have been put in a "Special" class with only children with other disabilities and he would have never progressed the way he did by being in a regular classroom. I now serve on the board of directors for F2F because they have given me so much that I felt I needed to give back to them. This is a great organization that helps all people.

I love F2F Network! The Parent Liaisons helped me to learn the law and correct approaches to an ARD. They gave me the tools to present my case for inclusion which allowed my daughter with Down syndrome to attend her neighborhood school rather than be segregated at a different campus. Now, I am helping others due to the training I received. I also participate in a great program called "Family Friends" which paired a volunteer with my family. This volunteer has befriended the family and comes to play with my daughter with Down syndrome. She's like an adopted grandmother and has been quite a blessing.

F2F has helped me tremendously prepare for my child to enter public education. They have helped me to see things differently and to fight for what will be best for my son through valuable training and 1:1 interactions.

When moving to Katy, TX from Virginia, I was quite overwhelmed. The educational process in Texas is very different than in Virginia and Family to Family helped by having many discussions on the phone, meeting in person to go over IEP forms. They send out many e-mails regarding upcoming events that help parents stay in the loop regarding special education in Texas. Wonderful group of people.

I was new to town and overwhelmed with school issues for my child with Asperger's. The staff at F2F were always kind, caring and supportive. They gave me alot of info. and usually had an answer to every question that I had! What an amazing organization.

I am a special education supervisor and arranged for Family to Family to provide a series of free parent trainings for the district. The sessions were extremely well received by the parents who attended. Mary Jane and the rest of her team did a beautiful job of supporting parents, providing valuable (and accurate) information about special education, and encouraging communication/ collaboration between parents and the school.

BEST THING IN TEXAS!!! F2F HELPED ME, A PROFESSIONAL SPECIAL EDUCATION TEACHER FROM OK., NAVIGATE THE TX SYSTEM TO EVENTUALLY HELP ME TO GET THE APPRPPRIATE SERVICES FOR MY DAUGHTER. SHE HAS SIGNIFICANT LEARNING DIDSABILITIES BUT HAS A GIFT WORKING WITH YOUNG CHILDREN. HER GOAL: WORK AT A DAYCARE CENTER AND SOME DAY OWN HER OWN. THE OUTCOME WAS A SERIES OF CLASSES THAT ENABLED HER TO "WOW" POTENTIAL EMPLOYERS WITH HER RESUME! SHE WAS HIRED BY THE 2ND CHILDCARE COMPANY SHE INTERVIEWED WITH AND, NOW 8 YEARS LATER, 2009, SHE SEES HER DREAM AS A REALITY. KEEP UP THE GREAT WORK, F2F!!!!

We have really enjoyed the services of this network although they are limited in our area. We have a wonderful lady who comes each week to spend time with my two autistic sons. She has been a blessing to us. The other services are not available in our area anymore, or I would give a five-star rating. Thank you Family to Family Network!!

I am the adoptive mother of two special needs children and an adoption and foster care professional. When my family moved to the Houston area, I did not know any resources to help me with getting my children's needs met. The discovery of Family to Family has been a great blessing for us. We have benefited from training for me, and from activities for the children. They have the most comprehensive list of activities for children and families with special needs that I have seen in my more than 20 years of working with children and families. I frequently forward the newsletter to other families and they are able to benefit from the information.

As a newcomer to houston and having a son with a disablity, Family to Family Network were a fantastic resource. The information and services they provide are invaluable.

I have been a member of Family to Family Network since the beginning when we had meeting in our homes. Without the support, guidance, and collaboration of everyone in this organization my daughter would not have become the community member and productive citizen that she is today. When others were telling me "she cannot" they were saying "yes she can" no matter what the situation. We understood and identified with one another and our kids could be friends in an accepting environment. We, including our kids, have all moved on with the course of life but without this orginization in the early years I know I would not have had the strength, determination and knowledge to advocate for my child in all areas and improve the quality of her life. T

During a time when I had lost all hope of finding a source for help, Family to Family became a buzz-word among people I would meet moving through the maze of bureacacy and service providers. I met individuals with whom I had a lot in common. I was no longer an island. For more than twelve years I looked for someone who would care enough to listen to my woes. Following a lead to Disability Leadership Network, an advocacy training course through Family to Family, I gained a strength I never knew I had. I became the force my son needed to help him rise to a plateau many had said was unattainable. He is now nineteen and I am a relentless advocate, inspired to work on local, state and national issues involving individuals with developmental disabilities. I could not and would never have ventured to serve my community without the inspiration, resources and association with Family to Family. So, impressed and motivated by what I received, I wanted to give back to the institution that rescued me from the pit of desperation, I became a board member.

Family to family is absolutely an inspirational organization. The rewards of working with the kids and sharing time and knowledge with them is immeasurable. This quite a satisfaction that surfaces each time I leave after a visit. I truly thankgod for the opportunityto serve.

Dear Family to Family, Five years ago we moved to Houston after living in the Kansas City area for more than 7 years. We lived in a small community, were active in a small church, and I worked at a small bank, so moving to the Houston area was a huge adjustment. Four years ago I found myself not having enough to do with my time, and lacking in friends. Our 2 daughters both live out of state and I was feeling the need to do something that would connect me in some way with a family with children. I saw an ad in a local publication that Family to Family needed volunteers to be matched with a family who happened to have a child with a disability. Having had a friend in Kansas with a child in that category, I decided to give F2F a call. I soon found myself at their training where I met several other women similar to myself - looking for a place to volunteer but also feel needed. In Oct. of 2005 I was matched with my family and met with them for the first time. I must say, F2F did a fantastic job with matching us! They have 3 wonderful children - 2 with disabilities. The youngest, who just turned 4, is an adorable little girl (who I'm wildly in love with) who happens to have Down syndrome. The middle son, is their "typical" child of 5 and 1/2 and a most delightful little boy. The oldest son, now 13 and 1/2 has OCD, ADHD and just last year was also diagnosed with Aspergers......quite a plate full for anyone to handle. He can be quite a handful but he has a way of getting under your skin and before you know it you love him! I have grown to love these children and their parents like they ARE my family - not just as friends. They are the missing piece in my life - I now not only have 2 daughters, a son-in-law and 2 grandsons living in other states, I have a family here in Houston. Something that would probably never happened if I hadn't picked up the phone and called Family to Family. I love spending time with each of these special children and their mother - dad is usually at work! I've taken them shopping, to doctor appointments, to movies, to the park, out to eat and even had the oldest and youngest on sleep-overs at different times. I can laugh with them, or cry with them, tell them jokes or scold them - they know me and love me right back. I cannot imagine how my life would be if they would move from this area - it would be empty and sad and I'd have to start over again with a new family. So, I guess I could say that Family to Family has had a profound affect on my life and I am greatful to everyone there for giving me the training and the necessary tools to begin a new relationship that has blossomed into such a special flower.

We have received great guidance from Family to Family in learning how to advocate for our child. Leslie has always been patient and is a wealth of information.

Our son, and family as a whole, would not be where we are today had it not been for Family to Family Network. F2F validated our vision that our son would have a life filled with the same opportunites and choices that everyone else has, and then gave us the information, tools and resources we needed to be effective advocates on his behalf. The connections we've made with other families of children with disabilities through F2F have been a tremendous source of support and inspiration, and have turned into life-long friendships. Our family will forever be greatful to Family to Family Network for all that they've done for our family, so many other families, and our community at large!

I just wanted to take a minute to let people know what a valuable help and resource Family to Family has been to my family. I have a Autistic son who is now 17 years of age and we are facing the transition years where we are trying to prepare for life after high school. As many parents I talk with we have been through Ard meetings and EIP's since our son first entered school.I felt that with my prior ARD experience and having gone to many seminars, that I had a pretty good knowlegde and grasp on the process and had done well getting services and being an advocate for my child. Because I did not have a great deal of experience with "transition issues" I asked the folks at Family to Family to look over last years IEP and make any suggestions they felt were appropriate or helpful. I was truly amazed at how many mistakes they found with my sons prior IEP and how many suggestions they gave me. I was able to go into this years ARD meeting with a 4 type written pages of suggestions and proposed changes that were so helpful in positioning my son for a better future. I am by no means an expert in dealing with IEP's or special education law, so it is so important to have resources available to us to help us protect our children and give them the best opportuities they can have. The folks at Family to Family were happy to devote their time and expertise to help my son. I will continue to use this valuable resource in the future and would recommend that anyone reading this should as well. Thanks, Mike

My involvement with Family to Family Network started as a volunteer with their Family Friends Volunteer Program. I was matched with a littel girl who has disabilities and her family. I go into the home to spend time with her doing fun things and in doing so give the family much needed support. I was asked to work for them parttime, to help expand the program and I have enjoyed it all thoroughly. The work they do help other families who have a child or more than one child with disabilities is outstanding. I hope to help them to continue to grow as they provide much needed help in many way.