MERCER

MERCER
Support groups/supports for parents whose children have any kind of behavioral challenges, developmental, social and emotional concerns or addictions.
 
 
PA FAMILIES INC
STATEWIDE FAMILY NETWORK
1-800-947-4941
PLEASE CALL OR EMAIL FOR UPDATED LIST
pafamilies@comcast.net
 
 
NAMI MERCER COUNTY
Support group for parents/family of those with mental health/behavioral issues
Fran Billen
2201 East State Street
Hermitage Pa 16148
724-981-6193
Fax #- 724-981-6198
 
 
ABOARD CHAPTER SUPPORT
GROUP
Support for parents who have children with autism spectrum disorder
Terry Colaluca
155 Mohawk School Road
New Castle Pa 16102
724-667-1060
 
 
PARENT SUPPORT GROUP
ABOARD- Support for parents who have children with autism spectrum disorder
Megan McCombs
266 Jefferson Ave
Sharon Pa 16146
724-347-2598
 
 
PARENTS OF AUTISTIC CHILDREN TOGETHER- PACT
Support group for parents who have children with autism. Meet in Grove City twice month.
Bonnie Schaffer 724-699-0966
Nojudge2000@yahoo.com
 
 
 
FAMILY DRIVEN SUPPORT GROUP
Facilitated by Michelle Chapla, MS & Susan McConnell, MSW, LCSW
2nd Thurs of month, 6-8pm
MCAR-Multi Purpose Room
842 North Hermitage Rd
Hermitage Pa 16148
Group for parents with a social skill/play group at the same time. Children with Autism Spectrum diagnoses & siblings welcome. Please RSVP for the play group. RSVP can be made to
Kristen Kilgore at 724-981-4462 or Mercer@familybehavioralresources.com
Group is offered by Family Behavioral Resources w/ ABOARD, space by MCAR.
 
RIGHT TO EDUCATION TASK FORCE #4
This group meets to address issues regarding students receiving special education services. Members include parents, school officials and community reps. Any parent welcome.Serves Butler, Lawrence, Mercer
Judy Campbell 724-658-4250
Jcltf44@comcast.net
Ricki Hood
rhood@communitycareconnect.org
 
 
 
 
ASSOC FOR CHILDREN W/LEARNING DISABILITIES
28 North Pine St
Sharon Pa 16146
724-346-5887
Tutoring by teachers only
 
 
PENNSYLVANIA FAMILY SUPPORT ALLIANCE
Formerly Parents Anonymous
Support for those raising challenging children and seeding to end child abuse
Susan Kish
Childrens Aid Society of Mercer County
PO Box 167
350 West Market St
Mercer Pa 16137
724-662-4730
 
 
ALANON
Those with children/loved one abusing alcohol
724-983-6480
 
ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP FOR AUTISM
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/children_with_autism/
 
AUTISMLINK HERMITAGE SUPPORT GROUP
Support for parents who have children on the autism spectrum
Amy- amycaraballo@gmail.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
BUTLER AREA BRAIN INJURY SUPPORT GROUP
Home of Donna Hatfield
112 Forrest Mere Circle
Butler Pa 16001
( call for directions)
Donna Hatfield 724-282-1721
Dottie Ardell 724-285-3472
1st Tuesday of month, 7-8:30pm
This is a new group, met in November for first time. Input from members will determine format.
 
ANOREXIA NERVOSA AND ASSOCIATED DISORDERS SUPPORT GROUP (ANAD)
Self help support group for eating disorders for parents, friends and most of all those suffering with these terrible eating disorders. Group meets in Hermitage.
ReNee A. Zamary
227 Greenwood Drive
Hermitage Pa 16148
724-981-5435
724-301-7788c
Reneeroo2003@yahoo.com
 
 
ADOPTION SUPPORT GROUP
Supporting all families affected by all types of adoption at all stages in the adoption
Children’s Aid Society of Mercer Co.
350 West Market St
Mercer Pa 16137
4th Thursday of month
5:30pm light dinner
6-8pm Group/Training/Discussion
Free!, Childcare available
RSVP-724-62-4730
Stephanie Fuge
 
 
 
GRANDPARENTS SECOND TIME AROUND
Renee Ivery
Minority Health Center
PO Box 301
Farrell Pa 16121
724-981-3856
 
SEXUAL ASSAULT GROUP
Group is for info, education, discussion on facts and impacts on children, healing etc for info on group call
AW/ARE, INC
PO Box 612
Mercer, Pa 16137
724-662-1870
1-888-981-1457
TTY- 724-981-1457
 
 
PARENT MENTOR
Aboard
Any disabilities
Joy Heck
2 Union St
Greenville Pa 16125
724-589-0442
 
 
ARC OF MERCER COUNTY
Support for parents of children with mental challenges
Robert Beach
Laurie Lewis
850 Hermitage Road
Hermitage Pa 16148
724-981-2950
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MCPASE- MERCER COUNTY PA SPECIAL EDUCATION GROUP
Mission is to ensure better education for exceptional children, increase voice of those families, help districts implement best practices, educate districts and communities etc
MCPASE
Hermitage Pa 16148
http://groups.yahoo.com/group/mcpase
 
 
ADDITION 1/26
MENTORING PROGRAM FOR YOUTH W/DISABILITIES
I CAN DO IT, YOU CAN DO IT!
Three sites, GROVE CITYYMCA,
BUTLER YMCA, Aebersold Recreation Center in SLIPPERY ROCK
Program matches an undergrad or grad student mentor w/youth. It is an 8 week program. For more info call:
Elizabeth Kemeny
Slippery Rock University
I CAN DO IT Coordinator
724-738-4306
 
LOCAL TASK FORCE COMMITTEE
Parents/community board
Laurie Lewis-724-981-2950
 
TRICOUNTY TASK FORCE
Parents/community board
Laurie Lewis-724-981-2950
 
MERCER COUNTY BEHAVIORAL HEALTH COMMISSION GOVERNING BOARD
Parents/community board
Kim Anglin
Drug and Alcohol
8406 Sharon Mercer Road
Mercer Pa 16137
724-662-1550 x215
 
 
THE MENTOR PARENT PROGRAM
Gail Walker
PO Box 47
Pittsfield Pa 16340
www.mentorparent.org
gwalker@verizon.net
1-888-447-1431
814-563-3470
Program to provide support and services to parents of children with disabilities birth to age 26
 
PA COUNCIL FOR EXCEPTIONAL CHILDREN
www.pacec-sped.org
The principal purpose of the Assoc shall be to advance the education and welfare of children and youth with exceptionalities.
Contact:
Dreamalee Brotz
Plymouth-Whitemarsh HS
201 E. Germantown Pike
Plymouth Meeting Pa 19462
610-825-1500 Ext 2014
membership@pacec-sped.org
 
 
ABC EDUCATION ADVOCACY
www.ABCadvocacy.net
Step-by-Step Parent Advocacy and Resources for families of children with special needs in Pa public Schools
Contact is Pam Cook
412-851-0252
 
 
MOMSTELL
Support/education/advocacy for parents of children involved with drugs
PO Box 450 Mechanicsburg, Pa 17055
717-730-2020
Sharon Smith
www.momstell.com
momstell@verizon.net
 
ACHIEVA
711 Bingham Street
Pittsburgh Pa 15203
contact@achieva.info
412-995-5000
1-888-272-7229
A member of The Partnership
Org for people with disabilities and their families offers support and help with services
 
PRADER-WILLI SYNDROME ASSOCIATION OF PENNSYLVANIA
Debbie Fabio
104 Persimmon Place
Cranberry Township Pa 16066
724-779-4415
www.pwsausa.org
 
KIDS TOGETHER INC
PO Box 45
Quakertown Pa 18951
staff@kidstogether.org
www.kidstogether.org
Volunteer non-profit provides info on inclusive communities, education/advocate listserve, email newsletter and website
 
NEW PHONE 1/26
THE SPECIAL KIDS NETWORK
Helps parents find resources for their special needs children and provide technical assistance to help groups develop, expand and maintain programs and support systems that serve children with special needs
1-877-986-4550
WEBSITE
www.health.state.pa.us/skn
 
 
 
 
 
 
PARENT TO PARENT
Linking familes of children or adults with disabilities or special needs.
Network created by families for families of children and adults with special needs. We connect families in similar situations with one another so that they may share experiences, offer practical information and/or support.
1-888-727-2706
www.parenttoparent.org
 
Parent to Parent of PA
 
1-888-727-2706 will connect you with your nearest regional office.
Web: www.parenttoparent.org
 
SE Region
Philadelphia, Delaware, Chester, Lancaster, Montgomery, Berks, Bucks, Schuylkill
Regional Coordinators: Cara Forrest
Office: Lancaster-Lebanon IU 13, 1110 Enterprise Road, Ste A, East Petersburg, PA 17520
Office Ph: 717-606-1298
Fax: 717-606-1445
Email: seregion@parenttoparent.org
 
NE Region
Lehigh, Northampton, Carbon, Monroe, Pike, Luzerne, Lackawanna, Wyoming, Wayne, Susquehanna
Regional Coordinator: Jody L. Miller
Office: Community Relations Department, Wayne Memorial Hospital, 601 Park St, Honesdale, PA 18431
Office Ph: 570-251-3208
Fax: 570-253-8993
Email: neregion@parenttoparent.org
 
SC Region
York, Adams, Franklin, Fulton, Bedford, Lebanon, Dauphin, Cumberland, Perry, Huntingdon, Blair, Juniata, Mifflin
Regional Coordinator: Carmen Krawczak
Office: N/A
Office Ph: 717-762-1711
Email: ckrawczak@parenttoparent.org
 
 
NC Region
Bradford, Sullivan, Columbia, Montour, Northumberland, Snyder, Union, Centre, Lycoming, Clinton, Tioga, Potter
Regional Coordinator: Melisa Hunter
Office: , 2401 Reach Road, Ste 206.,  Williamsport PA 17701
Office Ph: 570-321-8585
Office Fax: 570-323-1738
Email: ncregion@parenttoparent.org
 
SW Region
Somerset, Fayette, Greene, Washington, Westmoreland, Cambria, Indiana, Allegheny, Armstrong, Butler, Beaver
Regional Coordinators: Rachel Olbeter, Nicole Zilli
Office: N/A
Office Ph: Rachel-724-420-5035, Nicole-724-836-4409
Email: rolbeter@parenttoparent.org (Rachel), swregion@parenttoparent.org (Nicole)
 
NW Region
Clearfield, Jefferson, Clarion, Venango, Lawrence, Mercer, Forest, Elk, Cameron, McKean, Warren, Crawford, Erie
Region Coordinator: Lisa Kray
Office: Forest/Warren County Human Services, 623 Elm Street, PO Box 276, Tionesta, PA 16353
Office Ph: 814-755-7610
Office Fax: 814-755-7617
Email: nwregion@parenttoparent.org
 
 
ADDITION 1/26/10
PA TOURETTE SYNDROME ALLIANCE, INC
 info@patsainc.org
1-800-990-3300
717-337-1134
www.patsainc.org
Provide Information and Support for those touched by Tourette Syndrome in the state of PA. 
Provide Consultants to assist parents and schools with educational plans.
Advocates will do IEP for any child diagnosed with tourettes in any county in Pa
 
 
WIC
WOMEN, INFANTS AND CHILDREN NUTRITION PROGRAM
Provides nutrition education, healthy foods, breastfeeding support and referrals to health and social service agencies.
Orgs. PLEASE NOTE; A CHILD WITH AN ACCESS CARD ( MEDICAL ASSISTANCE ) IS INCOME ELIGIBLE FOR WIC BENEFITS HOWEVER ALL PARTICIPANTS ARE REQUIRED TO PROVIDE THEIR HOUSEHOLD INCOME, REGARDLESS IF THEY HAVE MEDICAL ASSISTANCE OR NOT.
1-800-942-9467
www.health.state.pa.us/familyhealth       www.pawic.com
 
 
JOEY ONLINE SUPPORT GROUP
Just Open Everybody’s Eyes
Support group for parents whose children have behavioral issues
gramaro@aol.com
 
 
AUTISMLINK
Support, information etc
Online support groups and discussion boards
376 Wagon Wheel Trail
Wexford Pa 15090
412-377-8778
info@autismlink.com
www.autismlink.com
 
ABOARD
Support for parents of children with autism/autism spectrum, website etc
Howard Carpenter
35 Wilson St
Suite 100
Pittsburgh Pa 15223
1-800-827-9385
info@aboard.org
www.aboard.org
 
 
PENNSYLVANIA HEALTH LAW PROJECT
Provides free legal services and advocacy to Pennsylvanians having trouble accessing publicly funded health care coverage or service.
CALL- 1-800-274-3258
1-866-236-6310 TTY
EMAIL - staff@phlp.org
www.phlp.org
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
EDUCATION LAW CENTER
Non-profit legal advocacy and educational organization dedicated to ensuring that all of Pennsylvania’s children have access to a quality public education
PHILADELPHIA CONTACTS
215-238-6970
elc@elc-pa.org
WEBSITE- www.elc-pa.org
 
 
GOVERNOR’S COMMISSION FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES
List of Health and Human Services
List of Advocacy Resources
Parent Guides
www.pachildren.state.pa.us
A website with information for parents and families.
 
 
MENTAL HEALTH ASSOCIATION IN PENNSYLVANIA
MHAPA works on behalf of mental health through advocacy, education and public policy.
Wendy Luckenbill, Family/Child Policy Coordinator
1-800-692-7443
Wluckenbill@mhapa.org
www.mhapa.org
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PEAL CENTER
Pennsylvania’s Parents Training and Information Center serving Western and Central Pa. Organization provides disability info, info about special education process and parent’s rights, Parent Advixors are available to provide info and resources to assist the family with problem-solving strategies and direct them to other community resources ,trainings in Understanding IEP’s, IDEA’04, Building Continuity, etc
For information contact:
Parent Education and Advocacy Leadership Center
1119 Penn Avenue
Suite 400
Pittsburgh Pa 15222
412-422-1040
1-866-950-1040
cduch@pealcenter.org
 
PHONE CHANGE 1/26
PENNSYLVANIA CLIENT ASSISTANCE PROGRAM
CAP
Advocacy program helps people who are seeking services from the OVR, Blindness, Visual Services, Centers for Independent Living and other programs funded under federal law.
Provides you with info and advice about rehab programs, advises you of your legal rights and responsibilities, helps you resolve problems that may arise while you are seeking services from rehab programs,
There is no charge.
PHILADELPHIA OFFICE
215-557-7112
1-877-533-1593
HARRISBURG OFFICE
717-233-1593
info@equalemployment.org
 
 
STARFISH ADVOCACY ASSOCIATION
This is an Internet community for families of children with neurological disorders such as ADHD, bipolar disorder, Asperger’s, PDD, SID, learning disabilites, OCD, tourette syndrome, etc. Services include forum boards, interactive chat room, moderated chats, informational resources, online classes in educational advocacy, education consultations.
216-283-2377
www.starfishadvocacy.org
starfish@starfishadvocacy.org
Starfish Advocacy Assoc
3341 Warrensville Center Road
Suite 203
Shaker Heights, Ohio 44122
 
PENNSYLVANIA SCHOOL-AGE CHILD CARE ALLIANCE- PENN SACCA
Group is committed to the expansion of high quality school-age care and after-school programs for children and youth. Membership is dedicated to the support of school-age professionals ands the development of quality school-age programs through advocacy and education.
www.pennsacca.net
Carolyn Hawk- 570-323-7134
Joyce Lang- 610-332-6541
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
OFFICE OF VOCATIONAL REHABILITATION
OVR provides services to eligible persons with disabilites with the goal of getting or keeping competitive employment. You will be eligible for OVR services if: You have a disability that is physical, mental, or emotional impairment which results in a substantial impediment to employment, and you can benefit in terms of an employment outcome from services provided, and ,
Vocational Rehabilitation services are required for you to prepare for, enter, engage in or retain gainful employment. A Vocational Rehabilitation Counselor will determine eligibility.
OVR provides a wide range of services to eligible applicants. The individual being served and the vocational rehabilitation counselor develop an Individualized Employment Plan jointly. The services you receive will be arranged to meet your individual needs. Not everyone will need every service. OVR services include: diagnostic services, vocational evaluation, counseling, training, restoration services, placement assistance, assistive technology, and support services. There is no chanrge for diagnostic services, counseling and job placement. However, a customer maybe required sharing the cost of other services after a financial needs assessment is completed.
Additional information , including local OVR office locations can be found on www.dli.state.pa.us, click on disability services. Also find OVR offices across the state.
814-871-4551
1-800-541-0721
 
 
 
 
DISABILITY RIGHTS NETWORK
Disability Rights Network of Pennsylvania (DRN) is a statewide, non–profit corporation designated as the federally–mandated organization to advance and protect the civil rights of all adults and children with disabilities.  DRN works with people with disabilities and their families to ensure their rights to live in their communities with the services they need, to receive a full and inclusive education, to live free of discrimination, abuse and neglect, and to have control and self–determination over their services. 
General information /questions can be emailed to intake@drnpa.org where intake workers who are advocates and attorneys.
www.drnpa.org
 
Harrisburg Office
1414 N. Cameron St., Suite C
Harrisburg, PA 17103
drnpa-hbg@drnpa.org
1-800-692-7443 [Voice]
1-877-375-7139 [TDD]
(717) 236-8110 [Voice]
(717) 346-0293 [TDD]
(717) 236-0192 [Fax]
Philadelphia Office
The Philadelphia Building
1315 Walnut St., Suite 400
Philadelphia, PA 19107–4798
(215) 238-8070 (Voice)
(215) 789-2498 (TDD)
(215) 772-3126 (Fax)
drnpa-phila@drnpa.org
Pittsburgh Office
429 4th Avenue, Suite 1901
Pittsburgh, PA 15219-1505
(412) 391-5225 [Voice]
(412) 467-8940 [TDD]
(412) 391-4496 [Fax]
drnpa-pgh@drnpa.org [Email]
Wexford Office
8500 Brooktree Road
Suite 100
Wexford, PA 15090
800-276-0928 [Voice]
724-934-1344 [Fax]
 
 
PA STATE FOSTER PARENT ASSOCIATION
We advocates for all those who care about children and their families. We work supportively with foster, adoptive, and kinship families, and with local foster parent associations and agencies who care for the children we serve. Psfpa.info@psfpa.com
www.psfpa.com
800-951-5151
717-671-0102
 
 ACQUIRED BRAIN INJURY NETWORK OF PA, INC.
Survivors and families facing the future with hope. Free newsletter, Infoline, brochures, staff, training
215-699-2139
www.abin-pa.org
www.groups.yahoo.com/group/abin-pa
 
 
ATTACHMENT DISORDERATTACh, the Association for Treatment and Training in the Attachment of Children, is an international coalition of professionals and families dedicated to helping those with attachment difficulties by sharing our knowledge, talents and resources.
www.attach.org
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
PENNSYLVANIA HUMAN RIGHTS COMMISSION
Mission is to administer and enforce the PHRAct and the PFEOA of Pa for the identification and elimination of discrimination and providing of equal opportunity for all persons.
PITTSBURGH OFFICE
412-565-5395
HARRISBURG OFFICE
717-787-9784
PHILADELPHIA OFFICE
215-560-2496
www.phrc.state.pa.us
 
 
ACCESS DOCTORS
Gives you the tools you need to create an accessible home or public building.
www.accessdoctors.atate.pa.us
 
TEENCENTRAL.NET
TeenCentral.Net is a prevention and intervention resource for teens and is dedicated to improving the lives of all youth by providing emotional support and appropriate references in a safe Web environment where identity is protected and anonymity is respected.
www.TeenCentral.Net
info@teencentral.net
 
BRAIN INJURY ASSOC OF PA
2400 Park Drive
Harrisburg Pa 17110
717-657-3601
866-635-7097
info@biapa.org
www.biapa.org
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
JOB ACCOMMODATION NETWORK
JAN helps you hire,retain,promote qualified employees/applicants with disabilities, provide accommodationoptions,etc
jan@jan.wvu.edu
www.jan.wvu.edu
 
 
FETAL ALCOHOL SPECTRUM DISORDER CENTER FOR EXCELLENCE
http://www.fascenter.samhsa.gov/
Website provides info on FASD.
FASD is an umbrella term describing the range of effects that can occur in an individual whose mother drank alcohol during pregnancy. These may include physical , mental, behavioral, and /or learning disabilities with possible lifelong implications.
 
 
CAFÉ MOM ONLINE GROUP
Online groups for parents and children who have many different special needs
http://www.cafemom.com/groups/find.php?keyword=special%20needs
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
MENTORS FOR SELF DETERMINATION
Group of self advocates, family members and caregivers whose mission is to provide current and accurate information to people regarding the MR system in Pa. We offer statewide mentoring so people have a better understanding of the system, promote self determination by sharing life erperiences and networking with others. This is done in one session or group session called Family Connections.
Debbie Leasure
 814.547.1577
dleasure@mentors4sd.org
www.mentors4sd.org
 
 
ELKS HOME NURSE PROGRAM
Patricia O’Connor Director
814-781-7860 pato@ncentral.com
Margie Wood Asst Director
724-225-1395 mwood15301@comcast.net
 
 
ELK HOME NURSE
Marilyn Bennett, RN serves Erie and Warren County. She works out of Supportive Living Services in Erie.
Phone is 814-454-1252 x 281
 
ONLINE CHAT SUPPORT GROUP
Group is for parents who are raising children with special needs.
www.myadlcenter.org
dsoucy@myadlcenter.org
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
SELECTIVE MUTISM SITES
Several sites below with info on selective mutism.
http://www.healthline.com/search?q1=selective+mutism&utm_source=no_health_channel&utm_medium=google&utm_campaign=serp&utm_term=selective%20mutism
 
http://www.selectivemutismfoundation.org/
 
http://www.selectivemutism.org/
 
 
NEW CASTLE LEARNING CENTER
Masonic Learning Centers for Children, Inc
110 East Lincoln Avenue
New Castle Pa 16101
Melissa J Merritt, Director
724-654-5408
Fax 724-654-3989
mmerritt@newcastlelearningcenter.com
www.childrenslearningcenters.org
Center for children with dyslexic/learning challenges.
 
 ERIE LEARNING CENTER
Masonic Learning Centers for Children, Inc
PO Box 9007
4701 Old Zuck Road
Erie Pa 16506
814-838-2405
Virginia L Miller, Director
Read4701@neohio.twcbc.com
www.childrenslearningcenters.org
Center for children with dyslexic/learning challenges
 
 
 
 
 
 
YOUTH OUTREACH UNION
Meets at the Beehive
1327 East Carson St
Pittsburgh Pa 15203
Contact Mike Reber
michaelreber@youthoutreachunion.com
YOU is a support and advocacy network of young adults for young adults. It’s members are either involved in a child serving system or they were. This support is peer driven and the group works to meet youth where they are to solve problems and deal wit issues that are important to them.
Website: www.youthoutreachunion.com
Mail address:
Youth Outreach Union
PO Box 97771
Pittsburgh Pa 15227
 
PENNSYLVANIA PARENTS OF BLIND CHILDREN
Supports parents of children with low vision, visual impairment and blilndness throughout Pa.
Contact Carlton Walker, President
213 North First St
McConnellsburg Pa 17233
717-485-3383
717-658-9894 c
PaPoBC@gmail.com
carltonwalker@gmail.com
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
GENERATIONS UNITED SENIORS 4 KIDS
Civic engagement initiative that demonstrates the important role older adults can play in support of issues directly benefitting children and youth. We help adults age 50+create statewide networks of community leaders and grassroots volunteers that raise visibility of older adults in support of high-quality early care and education.
Anne Tria Wise
Intergenerational Engagement Manager
Generations United
1331 H St. NW Suite 900
Washington DC 20005
202-289-3979
awise@gu.org
www.gu.org
www.seniors4kids.org
 
 
 
PA OFFICE FOR THE DEAF & HARD OF HEARING
PA Office for the Deaf and Hard of Hearing  phone: 717-783-4912 or 1-800-233-3008 e-mail ra-li-ovr-odhh@state.pa.us 
 
 
 
THE PA PARTNERSHIP FOR THE BLIND
The PA Partnership for the Blind contact Gordon Boe at 215-699-6535 or g.boe@comcast.net
 
 
 
PA SOCIETY FOR THE ADVANCEMENT OF THE DEAF
Pa Society for the Advancement of the Deaf  www.psadweb.org 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ESPECIALLY FOR PARENTS
Especially for Parents is an online network and forum where parents of children and youth with special health care needs can share knowledge and offer support.  Members are able to start a discussion, share tips, tricks and shortcuts, offer support to others, write a blog, create a group for parents with similar interests or situations, create a virtual meeting spot for a local community group, invite friends to become community members, and promote events. Visit us by going to www.pamedicalhome.org and clicking on the “Parents” button!
 
 
MARCH OF DIMES
5168 Campbell’s Run Road, Suite 101 Pittsburgh Pa 15205
412-505-2200
Fax 412-505-2209
www.birthdefects.org
PA437@marchofdimes.com
 
 
MARCH OF DIMES
1407 Peninsula Drive
Erie Pa 16505
814-833-4941
Fax 814-835-3651
www.birthdefects.org
PA437@marchofdimes.com
 
 
 
SPINA BIFIDA ASSOCIATION
2950 Potshop Road
PO Box 859
Worcester, Pa 19490
800-223-0222
610-584-5530
Fax 215-412-9396
info@sbadv.org
www.sbadv.org
 
CRC OF PHILADELPHIA
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS COUNCIL
The mission of CRC to minimize the emotional, physical and economic abuse, neglect and distress of children and the development of at-risk behaviors following relationship breakups between parents involved in highly conflicted disputes.
Mr Bill Clemens
President
8049 Pine Road
Suite C11
Philadelphia Pa 19111
215-745-0594
wclemens@earthlink.net
 http://www.crckids.org/chapter-locations-pennsylvania.htm
 
 
 
CRC OF PITTSBURGH
CHILDREN’S RIGHTS COUNCIL
The mission of CRC to minimize the emotional, physical and economic abuse, neglect and distress of children and the development of at-risk behaviors following relationship breakups between parents involved in highly conflicted disputes.
Mr Michael Nieland M.D.
President
1400 Inverness Avenue
Pittsburgh Pa 15217
412-621-0222
 http://www.crckids.org/chapter-locations-pennsylvania.htm
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ADDITION 1/26
ACTIVE MINDS SUPPORT AT COLLEGE
Active Minds is only org. working to utilize the student voice regarding mental health.By developing and supporting chapters of a student-run mh health awareness, education & advocacy group on camput, org works to provide info and resources etc. They encourage students to seek help asap and serve as liason between students and the mh community.
· Bryn Mawr College (Bryn Mawr, PA)
· Bucknell University (Lewisburg, PA)
· Cabrini College (Radnor, PA)
· Dickinson College (Carlisle, PA)
· Drexel University (Philadelphia, PA)
· Gettysburg College (Gettysburg, PA)
· Immaculata University (Immaculata, PA)
· Indiana University of Pennsylvania (Indiana, PA)
· Juniata College (Huntingdon, PA)
· Lafayette College (Easton, PA)
· Mercyhurst College (Erie, PA)
· Miscericordia University (Dallas, PA)
· Montgomery County Community College (Blue Bell, PA)
· Moravian College (Bethlehem, PA)
· Muhlenberg College (Allentown, PA)
· Philadelphia University (Philadelphia, PA)
· University of Pennsylvania (Philadelphia, PA) (founding chapter)
· University of Pittsburgh (Pittsburgh, PA)
· University of Pittsburgh at Bradford (Bradford, PA)
· Ursinus College (Collegeville, PA)
·  West Chester University (West Chester, PA)
 
 
 
ADDITION 1/26
 
DISPUTE RESOLUTION, OFFICE FOR & SPECIAL ED CONSULTLINE
6340 Flank Drive, Suite 600
Harrisburg Pa 17112
800-992-4334 or 717-541-4960
Special ed communication & conflict resolution. Call for help with school, IEP conflicts. Manual available.
This Manual is under revision in light of regulatory changes.  For inquiries regarding parent rights and procedural safeguards, please contact the Special Education ConsultLine at 1-800-879-2301.  For questions regarding due process, please contact Lori Shafer, Case Manager, at 1-800-222-3353, Ext. 3319.  For questions regarding Mediation, please contact Judy Shanabrough, Case Manager, at 1-800-222-3353, Ext. 3301.
www.odr.pattan.net
CONSULTINE- 1-800-879-2301
 
ADDITION 1/26
AMERICAN FOUNDATION FOR SUICIDE PREVENTION
AFSP-Pittsburgh

Ann M. Mitchell, Ph.D., R.N., F.A.A.N.
Associate Professor of Nursing and Psychiatry
University of Pittsburgh School of Nursing
3500 Victoria Street
415 Victoria Building
Pittsburgh, PA 15261
(412) 624-9005
fax: 412-383-7293
ammi@pitt.edu
 
 
 
 
 
ADDITION 1/26
DIVORCE CARE FOR KIDS SUPPORT GROUPS
DC4K is a special group to help your children heal from the pain caused by a separation or divorce. DC4K provides your children with a safe and neutral place to recognize and learn to share their feelings.
For 13 weeks your church near you. The weekly session topics help your children learn that God’s love strengthens them and helps them turn their sadness to hope and their anger to joy.Each session is filled with motivating and exciting activities. Games, crafts, role playing, discussion times, journaling and activity books help your children process the divorce and move forward in their lives. The music CDs, snacks, read aloud stories, exercises and Bible verses teach your children to relax and rest secure in God’s love. The Kids Like Me and Stories from the Bible video dramas present stories of children just like your children, who are experiencing divorce-related problems and have found help and encouragement.
DC4K is a powerful ministry for kids 5–12 years of age.
www.dc4k.org/about/
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ADDITION 1/26
NAR-ANON FAMILY GROUP HEADQUARTERS INC. (WSO)
22527 CRENSHAW BOULEVARD, SUITE 200B
TORRANCE, CALIFORNIA 90505
TOLL FREE: 1 800 477 6291
PHONE: (310) 534-8188
FAX: (310) 534-8688
E-MAIL: naranonwso@gmail.com
On-Line Forum: www.naranon.com/forum
www.naranon.com
 
ADDITION 8/9
ASERT/BUREAU OF AUTISM CALL IN FOR RESOURCESThe ASERT/Bureau of Autism has opened it's call-in resource center: 1-877-231-4244 is the number to call when looking for Autism resources or services in your area.
http://www.elc-pa.org/ELLTaskForce/news.html 
 
ADDITION 8/9
SPEAKING OF SPEECH IEP GOAL BANK website
This IEP GOAL BANK is the place where you can "deposit" your own IEP goals/objectives and "withdraw" the goals/objectives contributed by others. Few things cause more angst in our profession than writing IEP goals/objectives!
http://www.speakingofspeech.com/IEP_Goal_Bank.html
 
 
 
 
 
 
ADDITION 8/9
PASchoolTalkA new site that provides aforum for people who have concerns and ideas about public education in Pennsylvania.  Some ELL Task Force members have already joined the site.  We’d really like to see more ideas and information on ELL issues on the site – but that will only happen if more join
.http://www.paschooltalk.org/
twitter.com/paschooltalk
 
 
 
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OPERATION MILITARY KIDS
Operation: Military Kids is the U.S. Army's collaborative effort with America's communities to support children and youth impacted by deployment
www.operationmilitarykids.org
814-865-2264 Project Director Susan Smith sus52@psu.edu
814-863-3828 Christie Bartley
cbartley@psu.edu Military liason
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
ADDITION 8/9
English Language Learners (ELL) Task Force  
The ELL Task Force is a group, now over 10 years old, that meets regularly around the state to discuss the education of English language learners in Pennsylvania. There are nearly 200 people on the Task Force mailing list, including educators, social service providers, advocates, and parents. Meetings and e-mail updates enable the task force to work together on ELL concerns at both the state and local levels. For an end-of-year report on what the Task Force did this year, including information on the results of our work with the PA Department of Education, visit our ELL Task Force webpage.  (And for additional resources and publications on ELL law and policy, see the Education Law Center website.)  http://www.elc-pa.org/ELLTaskForce/news.html  To be added to the Task Force mailing list, contact Len Rieser at lrieser@elc-pa.org
 
 
PLEASE SEND INFO ON ANY OTHER GROUPS FOR PARENTS WHO HAVE CHILDREN WITH CHALLENGES SUCH AS :
MENTAL HEALTH, SOCIAL , EMOTIONAL
DEVELOPMENTAL DISABILITIES, AUTISM
LEARNING
DRUG AND ALCOHOL
SUICIDE
ADOPTION, FOSTER GROUPS ETC
SEND INFO TO :
1-800-947-4941
pafamilies@comcast.net
Please note we are also now listing groups for parents who have children with physical challenges as well.