Local families raising children with special needs can now access free in-home support through Arc Broward

Sunrise, Florida – Families in Broward County raising children with intellectual or developmental disabilities now have access to free, in-home parenting support through Arc Broward’s Family Support Program, a unique initiative designed to meet the needs of families impacted by disabilities. The program, partially funded by the Children’s Services Council of Broward County, serves children up to the age of 14 and offers comprehensive support for both parents and children, enhancing the overall family experience.

“Families of children with special needs may face an extra measure of uncertainty, isolation and confusion, and we want these families to know that the Arc Broward Family Support Program offers high-quality, personalized support at no cost to help them navigate the challenges of parenting a child with special needs,” said Shawn Preston, Vice President of Children and Family Services. “Through in-home visits, parenting workshops and group sessions where families can connect with other parents, the Family Support Program empowers families while providing a welcoming community and a strong support network.”

The Family Support Program is structured to provide families with comprehensive, long-term guidance. Most participants receive services for approximately three years, which include twice-monthly in-home visits, case management, and group meetings. During these visits, staff work directly with families to provide advocacy, crisis management, and assistance connecting with community resources such as medical care, childcare, housing assistance, clothing, furniture, food, and school supplies. Parents also benefit from workshops and community-based cultural, educational, and recreational activities that encourage positive parent-child interactions.

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Through the program, families gain a better understanding of age-appropriate developmental expectations, learn positive behavior management techniques, and access a variety of community supports. By providing these tools, the Family Support Program helps improve overall family functioning, while increasing parents’ sense of self-worth and empowerment.

“Arc Broward has more than 65 years of experience serving people with disabilities, giving us a deep understanding of their needs and how best to serve them,” said Tonya Ricker, Director of Children’s Services. “Ultimately, through our program, children and parents learn how to advocate for their child, access the services and support they need and have fun as a family.”

The program has demonstrated measurable success, with 86% of participating families reporting improved family functioning and decreased stress within a year after completing the program. Graduates can continue to engage with Arc Broward through alumni activities, helping families navigate new challenges and stages of life while remaining connected to resources and support networks.

As the holiday season approaches, Arc Broward is seeking to bring joy to participating families through a toy and gift drive. Families and community members are invited to donate new, unwrapped toys for children with disabilities from birth to age 13, as well as gifts for parents and caregivers. Donations can be dropped off now through December 12 at the Arc Broward Preschool, 10250 NW 53rd Street, Sunrise.

Founded in 1956, Arc Broward is one of the largest local providers for people with intellectual and developmental disabilities, offering 21 programs ranging from early education and afterschool programs to vocational training, post-secondary education, and workforce development. For more than 30 years, the organization has maintained accreditation from CARF, the Commission on Accreditation of Rehabilitation Facilities, a testament to its commitment to excellence, innovation, and continuous improvement.

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Arc Broward operates at nine locations throughout Broward County and runs two social enterprises, Arc Educates and Arc Culinary, which provide opportunities for people with disabilities to develop skills and achieve independence in the workforce. The organization’s mission goes beyond service provision, aiming to transform communities by promoting inclusion, empowerment, and opportunity.

Families interested in learning more about the Family Support Program can visit arcbroward.com/family-support-programs/ or call 954-746-9400. Arc Broward also maintains an active social media presence at @arcbroward, sharing stories, updates, and resources for families and the broader community.

By offering personalized, accessible support, Arc Broward’s Family Support Program provides families of children with special needs the tools, confidence, and community connections to navigate challenges successfully, helping both parents and children thrive in Broward County.