Summer Blog Series Kick Off: Community

Welcome to Day 1 of our Summer series! Woo-hoo! 

In today's blog, we will explore the importance of community and how it can make a significant impact on the lives of families dealing with different challenges. So let's dive in and discover the power of community support!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction to Effective IEP

2. Summer Series Kick-off: Community

Introduction to Effective IEP

For those of you who are new, here’s a quick introduction to the Effective IEP:

Our aim is to provide IEP support to help your child learn & grow at home and school. Effective IEP focuses on empowering families as they navigate the IEP process. Empowerment comes in different forms. We focus on empowerment through our five pillars: Community, Lifelong learning, Responsibility, Integrity, and Quality of Life.

We are often asked if we are advocates, meaning if we attend IEP Meetings: Our general answer is no. While that may be surprising we believe in the impact of our Annual IEP Guide and IEP Advocacy & Accountability Companion.

We believe in providing you with the tools to advocate for yourself. Outside of the individual receiving Special Ed services through an IEP, parents/guardians are the consistent advocates. We want you to feel confident as you advocate for both the needs of yourself and your family.

Note: Throughout our blogs, we may share links to resources. Unless noted, none of our links are sponsored. We don’t receive any monetary compensation. We also recommend doing your own due diligence on any resources shared. 

Community: Embracing Strength in Togetherness

Today, we actually attended the National African American Child & Family Center (NAACFRC) conference hosted on Morehouse School as Medicine’s Campus. The Conference focused on Community Engaged Research. It was great to hear from grass-root researchers and professionals doing the actual work. 

It brought us back to highlighting the importance of community. 

Generally speaking, life can feel lonely. Add in a mix of a new job, new child, change in the family dynamic, a child with special needs, single parenting, a grandparent led-household, an LBGTQIA+ household, etc. 

Community support is life-changing. 

Create/find community at the playground. Create/find community at parent pick-up. Create/find community at the library. Create/find community at your local place of worship. Create/find community at your local coffee shop. Create/find community via hashtags online if you have to. 

You can be a part of multiple communities. Search for community. Build the community around you. Create the community you want to see. 

Creating or finding a community that resonates with your values and experiences is key to fostering a sense of belonging and support. You can be part of multiple communities that cater to different aspects of your life. Seek out like-minded individuals who understand your journey, who can offer guidance, and who can celebrate your triumphs. Together, we can build the community we want to see—one that provides strength and unity in times of need.

To help you on your quest for community, we've compiled a list of valuable resources. Remember to conduct your own due diligence when exploring these options:

Atlanta Fulton Family Connection 

Their purpose is “Our goal is to connect all organizations in Fulton County that provide services to families and children. We have created a resource guide that provides contact information for community organizations and detailed information for families on how to connect with the organization”

Metro Atlanta Workforce

Its purpose is “In an effort to provide clarity around available resources for families to receive workforce services (adult education, training, employment, etc.) in Metro Atlanta, the Metro Atlanta Workforce was created. This tool provides an overview of the sector based on services and the different resources that are available.” 

Myleik + Moms

A vibrant online community that supports mothers in building their village one connection at a time. Accessible via phone/tablet/computer, this community offers forums, expert events, in-person meetups, and more. As of 6/8/23, there is a monthly access fee of $9 per month or $85 per year.

Parent to Parent of GA

Their mission is to support Georgia families and individuals from birth to 26 impacted by disabilities or special health care needs

Community support is a force that can transform lives, especially for families navigating the IEP process. By embracing the power of community, we can uplift one another, share knowledge, and provide the essential support needed to thrive. We encourage you to explore the resources we've shared and actively engage with communities that resonate with your journey.

Together, let's create a network of empowerment, making a positive impact on the lives of families as we navigate the IEP process

Action Item:

Comment below with any resources you would like to share

Until next time,

EI 

P.S. For additional insights, check out this article from Esther Perel: The Power of Chosen Family